Arthur Smith's journey from the NFL sidelines to Ohio State's offensive coordinator role is a story of growth and opportunity. It all began when Mike Vrabel, then the head coach of the Tennessee Titans, saw potential in Smith and promoted him to offensive coordinator in 2019.
Smith, who had been with the Titans since 2011, seized the opportunity and helped elevate the Titans’ offense to one of the league's best. His success there paved the way for his head coaching role with the Atlanta Falcons in 2021.
Fast forward to today, and Smith is taking on a new challenge at Ohio State, much to the delight of his former mentor, Vrabel. The two have maintained a close friendship, and Vrabel, now leading the New England Patriots, couldn’t be happier for Smith’s new venture.
As an Ohio State alum, Vrabel jokingly warned Smith that Buckeye fans have high expectations. “Arthur’s a friend, so I talk to him often.
Got a lot of respect for him as a coach, but not only that, as a person and as a friend,” Vrabel remarked at the NFL Scouting Combine. “So for all the Ohio State fans, I guess we have somebody to complain to if they don't score 50 points a game like every other Buckeye fan does.”
Vrabel has no doubts about Smith’s capabilities, highlighting the toughness and aggressive play-calling that Smith will bring to the Buckeyes. Smith’s recent tenure as the Pittsburgh Steelers’ offensive coordinator showcased his ability to innovate and adapt, traits that will serve him well at Ohio State.
“I think Arthur's got a physicality to him, a toughness to him that he wants to put onto the football field offensively,” Vrabel noted. “He's created enough, has worked with a number of different players, that I think they enjoy some of the wrinkles that he has.”
Having been a part of Ohio State himself, Vrabel knows the pressures and the pride that come with coaching at such a storied program. However, he's confident that Smith is more than prepared for the task ahead.
“I didn't know anything, so I'm certainly not going to give him any advice. I think what he does is going to be plenty,” Vrabel said, emphasizing the importance of player connections and leveraging their strengths.
As Smith embarks on this new chapter, Vrabel is fully supportive, excited to see his protégé thrive in Columbus. “I'm excited for him to be in Columbus,” Vrabel shared.
“Obviously, that place means a lot to me personally and my family. So having gone there and lived there, I support him.”
Arthur Smith's transition to Ohio State is not just a career move; it's a continuation of his journey as a coach who has consistently risen to meet new challenges. With his track record and Vrabel’s endorsement, Buckeye fans have plenty to look forward to.