Is Ohio State’s next offensive coordinator going to be an in-state head coach, or someone more akin to Ryan Day in 2017?
COLUMBUS, Ohio – Ryan Day expects Ohio State football’s defensive and special teams coordinators to serve as the “head coach” of their respective units.
It now appears, after first flirting with the idea a year ago, Day will reportedly set that standard for his offensive coordinator as well. Hiring a new offensive coordinator would involve more than merely turning over play calling duties. That person will also have input into the makeup of the rest of the offensive coaching staff, similar to Day’s collaboration with then-newly hired Jim Knowles after the 2021 season.
While it was not the primary consideration for Knowles’ hire, the longtime Power 5 coordinator came with head coaching experience. He served in that role for six seasons at his alma mater, Cornell.
A new addition with real executive experience could also help mentor current offensive coordinator Brian Hartline as he continues to grow in the position. Hartline was promoted a year ago after the departure of Kevin Wilson — himself a former head coach at Indiana.
