Brian Hartline's journey as Ohio State's offensive coordinator had its share of ups and downs, but calling it a failure would be missing the bigger picture. During his two terms in 2023 and 2025, Hartline showed he had a knack for developing talent.
Take Julian Sayin, for example, who became a Heisman finalist under Hartline's guidance. Carnell Tate also emerged as a top-five NFL draft prospect despite some skepticism about his Combine performance.
And let's not forget Jeremiah Smith, who is already making waves as a potential top draft pick for next year, thanks to his impressive performance last fall.
While the postseason didn't go as planned, with a misstep in play-calling transitions to Ryan Day, the overall tenure was far from a disappointment. Ohio State's offense remained one of the most potent in the nation, and fans should remember Hartline's contributions as he transitions to his new role as head coach of the USF Bulls.
Patrick Murphy from Bucknuts highlighted that while Ohio State's play-calling wasn't flawless, the Buckeyes still boasted one of the nation's top offenses in 2025. This context is crucial when evaluating Hartline's legacy at Ohio State.
As Hartline steps into his role at USF, the key to his success will be in delegation. While his play-calling wasn't always spot-on, he excelled in attracting elite talent.
By focusing on recruiting top-tier skill-position players and assembling a capable staff, Hartline can let experienced play-caller Tim Beck handle the offensive strategies. Beck's past with successful Buckeyes offenses, despite some pass-protection issues, provides a solid foundation.
The transition to American defenses may offer Hartline a smoother path, allowing him to refine his head coaching skills. While he may not have mastered play-calling, his strength lies in his ability to build a team and delegate effectively. This approach could set him up for success at USF and potentially pave the way for future opportunities in the Power 4 conferences.