The Buckeyes are heading into a pivotal offseason, and one of the biggest storylines isn't about who’s suiting up-it’s about who’s calling the plays. With offensive coordinator Brian Hartline set to take over as the head coach at South Florida, Ohio State now faces the challenge of replacing one of the most influential figures on its offensive staff. Hartline will remain with the team through its College Football Playoff run, but once that final whistle blows, Ryan Day and his staff have a major decision to make.
Hartline’s departure doesn’t just leave a hole in the coaching booth-it’s already having ripple effects on the recruiting trail, particularly at wide receiver, where Hartline’s reputation helped lure elite talent to Columbus. The Buckeyes are still working to close out their 2026 class, but the uncertainty at OC is clearly a factor.
So, who steps in next? There are three names that stand out-each with a different level of experience and a different kind of fit for what Ohio State needs moving forward.
1. Keenan Bailey - The Internal Option
If Ryan Day decides to keep the hire in-house, Keenan Bailey is the name to watch. Bailey has been Ohio State’s tight ends coach for the past few seasons, but his Buckeye roots go deeper-he’s been with the program since 2019, the same year Day took over as head coach. That kind of continuity matters, especially in a program built on relationships and culture.
Bailey is well-liked by players, particularly on the offensive side, and he’s been quietly learning the ropes behind the scenes. He knows the system, he knows the expectations, and he understands the standard that’s been set in Columbus.
The biggest knock? He hasn’t called plays before.
That’s a major leap, especially at a place like Ohio State, where the margin for error is razor-thin and the spotlight never dims.
Still, if Day wants someone who understands the DNA of the program and can grow into the role, Bailey could be the guy. The players would likely rally behind him, and that counts for a lot in a transition like this.
2. Chip Kelly - The Proven Play-Caller
If the Buckeyes want to swing big, Chip Kelly is sitting right there. The former UCLA head coach and architect of Ohio State’s 2024 national championship offense is back on the market after a short-lived stint with the Raiders. His time in the NFL may be over, but his offensive mind is still as sharp as ever-and he already has a proven track record in Columbus.
When Day handed over play-calling duties last season, it was Kelly who took the reins and turned the Buckeyes into an offensive juggernaut. That playoff run?
Kelly’s fingerprints were all over it. He simplified things, leaned into the strengths of the roster, and let the talent shine.
The result was an offense that overwhelmed defenses on the biggest stage.
Kelly stepped away from a head coaching role at UCLA to become the OC at Ohio State, a move that let him focus solely on football without the administrative headaches that come with leading a program. If he’s interested in returning-and if Day is looking for a sure thing-this might be the most seamless and high-upside option available.
3. Joey Halze - The Rising Star
If Day wants to go outside the program and bring in fresh energy, Joey Halze is a name to watch. He’s been leading Tennessee’s offense since 2023, and under his direction, the Volunteers have climbed into the top tier nationally-currently boasting the sixth-best offense in the country.
Halze doesn’t have direct ties to Day or Ohio State, but that might not matter. What he does have is a track record of building explosive, high-tempo offenses in a competitive conference. If Day is looking to keep the Buckeyes’ offense humming at a high level while injecting some new ideas into the system, Halze could be the right fit.
Of course, luring him away from Tennessee won’t be easy. But Ohio State has the resources-and the prestige-to make a compelling offer. A higher salary and the opportunity to compete for national titles every year in Columbus might be enough to get his attention.
The Bottom Line
Replacing Brian Hartline won’t be easy. He’s been a key part of Ohio State’s offensive identity, both on the field and on the recruiting trail.
But the Buckeyes have options-and good ones at that. Whether it’s promoting a rising voice from within, bringing back a proven veteran, or going bold with an outside hire, Ryan Day has a critical decision ahead.
This hire isn’t just about Xs and Os. It’s about maintaining momentum, keeping recruits engaged, and setting the tone for the next chapter of Buckeye football.
With the College Football Playoff still ahead, the focus remains on finishing the season strong. But once that run ends, all eyes will be on who steps into the coordinator’s chair-and what that means for the future of one of college football’s most powerful programs.