Top 5 Ohio State offensive coordinator candidates for 2025

Brian Hartline

Hartline is likely the favorite to become Ohio State’s next offensive coordinator if Day opts for an internal hire. Hartline, a former Buckeyes receiver who spent seven years in the NFL, joined his alma mater as an offensive quality control assistant in 2017. He has been the Buckeyes’ wide receivers coach since 2018 and was also the program’s offensive coordinator in 2023, but wasn’t given play-calling duties. Hartline remained co-offensive coordinator alongside Kelly in 2024, but a promotion back to full-time offensive coordinator could help keep the up-and-coming 38-year-old assistant in Columbus longer. Hartline has developed several of college football’s top receivers recently, including current Buckeyes star Jeremiah Smith. He remains unproven as an offensive coordinator, but he would help maintain continuity for the national champions.