By: Dominic Hummel

A major shift is coming to the Ohio State football program as offensive coordinator Brian Hartline has officially announced he will be leaving the Buckeyes to become the next head coach at the University of South Florida, for a six year contract. The news broke just days after Ohio State wrapped up its regular season, creating a wave of reaction among fans, players, and staff.

Hartline, who has been with the program since 2017, quickly went through the coaching ranks. First serving as the wide receiver coach, then in 2025 he was promoted to the offensive coordinator, helping lead an offense built around star quarterback Julian Sayin and standout receivers Jeremiah Smith and Carnell Tate.

According to the Washington Post, Hartline will finish the postseason with Ohio State before transitioning fully into his new role at South Florida.

“It’s unnecessary and very disappointing,” Bellbrook junior A.J. Nichols said. “However, I believe Brian Hartline will have a successful career wherever he goes. I expect the offensive recruiting process to remain strong, though it may not be quite as dominant as it has been with the wide receivers.”

As the Buckeyes prepare for their postseason matchup, fans are keeping a close eye on who will step in to replace Hartline and whether Ryan Day will look internally or bring in a new face from outside the program. The decision is expected to have a major impact on the team’s offensive identity moving forward.