Eric Boggs
Ohio State is officially preparing for life after Brian Hartline. South Florida announced Wednesday that it is hiring Ohio State’s offensive coordinator and elite receivers coach as its next head coach—a move that sent shockwaves through Buckeye Nation. Despite the timing, Hartline will remain with the Buckeyes through the College Football Playoff, a decision Ryan Day praised as a testament to his loyalty and professionalism.
Day acknowledged that losing an assistant of Hartline’s caliber is far from ideal but emphasized that the news should be celebrated rather than resented. After eight years developing arguably the nation’s top wide receiver pipeline and calling plays for a 12-0, No. 1-ranked team, Hartline has earned his shot to lead a program. Those inside the Woody Hayes Athletic Center say Hartline handled the process exactly the right way.
Hartline’s decision to choose South Florida over opportunities linked to programs like Penn State and Kentucky came down to fit and long-term goals. He has never hidden his dream of one day becoming Ohio State’s head coach, and taking a massive pressure-cooker job too early risked repeating the pitfalls Luke Fickell has experienced at Wisconsin. USF offers room to grow without the overwhelming expectations of the Big Ten or SEC.
The school is also viewed as one of the strongest Group of Five platforms for future coaching ascension. Alex Golesh recently turned success there into the head coaching job at Auburn, and programs like Cincinnati have traditionally played this same springboard role. Hartline’s deep recruiting ties in South Florida—particularly within the South Florida Express 7-on-7 team—made the fit even more natural. Those close to him say mentors on Ohio State’s staff encouraged him to take the job, believing it was the perfect combination of challenge and opportunity without the high-risk consequences of a major Power Five role. And, naturally, coaching in warm, sunny Tampa while his family escapes Ohio winters is hardly a drawback.
The news broke live on The OHIO Podcast during a signing day livestream, creating a surreal moment for hosts Eric Boggs and Mecah Hannah. Like many fans, they were initially shocked and confused, but as more details emerged, they agreed the move made sense for Hartline’s long-term coaching path. Ryan Day shared that sentiment. He publicly supported Hartline, stressed that the unfortunate timing is an NCAA issue rather than Hartline’s doing, and praised his commitment to finishing out the season. This move is comparable to situations that Nick Saban has happen to him during his stint at Alabama, pointing out that it’s healthy for elite programs to develop future head coaches. The expectation is that Hartline will continue calling plays throughout the College Football Playoff, with Day stepping in more actively as needed.
Ohio State now faces another offseason in search of an offensive coordinator, and several early names have surfaced. Chip Kelly is the most intriguing option given his long-standing relationship with Day and his recent departure from the Las Vegas Raiders. Keenan Bailey, the tight ends coach, could move into a larger role thanks to his background with wide receivers. Kenny Guiton, a former Buckeye with SEC coaching experience, could return to Columbus as a proven developer of talent. Ross Douglas also fits Day’s coaching network, with experience at Oregon, Syracuse, and in the NFL. The direction Day chooses will likely hinge on Kelly’s interest and how the staff wants to redistribute positional responsibilities. But if hires like defensive coordinator Matt Patricia are any indication, there is reason to remain confident in Day’s judgment.
While losing Hartline stings—especially given his exceptional run of wide receiver recruiting and development—the circumstances point toward a rare win for all parties involved. Ohio State gets a loyal coach who will help chase a national championship before moving on, a strengthened coaching tree, and further proof that Day remains firmly committed to the program. USF gains one of the brightest young coaches in the country. And Hartline steps into an opportunity that can help him grow into the leader many believe could one day return to Columbus in the ultimate role.
As the hosts of The OHIO Podcast put it while processing the news, Buckeye Nation just picked up a second team to cheer for. When South Florida takes the field, fans in scarlet and gray will be watching—and rooting—for one of their own.
