Brian Hartline is stepping into his first head coaching gig at South Florida, and he’s doing it with a paycheck that turns heads.
According to records, Hartline will make $3.5 million in his first year leading the Bulls - a significant jump from the $2 million he earned as Ohio State’s offensive coordinator in 2025. That $1.5 million raise not only reflects South Florida’s belief in his potential but also places him among the top earners in the Group of Five coaching ranks. Only Liberty’s Jamey Chadwell brought in more last year at $5.9 million, while UNLV’s Dan Mullen matched Hartline’s new salary.
The Bulls aren’t just paying for a name - they’re investing in a vision. South Florida is coming off a strong 9-4 campaign under Alex Golesh, who left for Auburn after restoring some serious credibility to a program that had won just four games total in the three years prior to his arrival. Golesh, like Hartline, has Ohio State ties, and now the Bulls are hoping lightning strikes twice.
Hartline’s arrival marks a new chapter, and he’s wasted no time putting his stamp on the roster. He’s already brought in two familiar faces from Columbus: wide receiver Bryson Rodgers and defensive end C.J.
Hicks, both transferring in to join their former coach. But that’s just the start.
Hartline has been aggressive in the portal, locking in 37 commitments, including two quarterbacks - Michael Van Buren Jr. from LSU and Luke Kromenhoek from Mississippi State.
That’s a bold strategy for a first-time head coach, but it speaks to Hartline’s recruiting chops and the momentum he’s bringing with him from Ohio State. The Bulls are betting big - not just financially, but in terms of program identity. With Hartline at the helm, South Florida is aiming to move from Group of Five upstart to something much more formidable.
The expectations are clear. The resources are in place. Now it’s time to see if Hartline can turn that investment into wins.