Ohio State Fires Offensive Coordinator Brian Hartline Amid Offensive Woes and Internal Friction
By Buckeye Nation Daily – May 5, 2025
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In a move that has sent shockwaves across Columbus and Buckeye Nation, Ohio State University has officially parted ways with offensive coordinator Brian Hartline, citing ongoing struggles on offense and mounting tension within the coaching staff.
Hartline, a former Ohio State wide receiver and longtime assistant, was promoted to offensive coordinator in 2023 and was widely considered a rising star in coaching. However, his tenure as OC came to a sudden end after a disappointing 2024 campaign marked by underperformance, inconsistency, and growing reports of behind-the-scenes friction.
High Expectations, Underwhelming Results
With a stacked offensive roster led by quarterback Devin Brown and elite receivers like Carnell Tate and Brandon Inniss, the Buckeyes were expected to dominate on offense. Instead, they finished the season ranked 27th nationally in scoring and struggled mightily in the red zone, especially against top-tier opponents like Michigan and Iowa.
“After a thorough review of the season, we’ve decided to make a change in leadership on the offensive side of the ball,” said head coach Ryan Day in a Monday statement. “Brian is a great Buckeye and will always be part of this program’s legacy, but we need to go in a different direction to reach our full potential.”
Clashes Over Offensive Vision
According to sources close to the program, Hartline’s vision for the offense increasingly diverged from that of Day, who had previously called plays before giving Hartline more control in 2024. The transition was rocky, with reports that Day often stepped in during games, overruling play calls and reasserting his influence over the offense.
“There was confusion at times,” said one team insider. “You had two offensive minds with different approaches, and the result was inconsistency on the field.”
Some players reportedly grew frustrated with unclear communication and game plans that shifted week to week. While Hartline remained popular among the wide receiver group, several offensive linemen and running backs voiced concerns about the lack of balance and rhythm in play-calling.
Pressure from the Top
Athletic director Gene Smith also weighed in, noting the program’s lofty standards. “We expect excellence at every level, especially when it comes to Ohio State football,” Smith said. “This wasn’t a decision made lightly, but it’s one we believe is necessary to compete at the highest level.”
Following a third straight loss to Michigan and missing the College Football Playoff for a second consecutive year, external pressure from fans, alumni, and boosters reportedly played a role in accelerating the move.
Next Steps for the Buckeyes
Quarterbacks coach Corey Dennis will serve as interim offensive coordinator while the Buckeyes conduct a national search for a permanent replacement. Several high-profile candidates are already being speculated, including Joe Moorhead (Akron HC, former Oregon OC), Will Stein (Oregon OC), and NFL assistants with Big Ten connections.
Ryan Day is expected to play a central role in selecting the new OC, with insiders noting he may reclaim play-calling duties unless a new hire demands full autonomy.
Hartline’s Future
While his time as offensive coordinator ends abruptly, Brian Hartline remains highly regarded as a recruiter and developer of elite wide receiver talent. He is expected to draw interest from both college and NFL programs, potentially returning to a position coach role or exploring a fresh start as a coordinator elsewhere.
In a brief statement, Hartline said: “Coaching at Ohio State has been the honor of a lifetime. I’m proud of what we accomplished and wish the players and staff nothing but success moving forward.”
