Brian Hartline is embracing his new role as Ohio State’s offensive coordinator with gratitude and determination.
Speaking to Eleven Warriors before the National Football Foundation Columbus Chapter banquet at Ohio State on Monday night, Hartline expressed deep appreciation for Head Coach Ryan Day’s trust in him to take over the Buckeyes’ offense.
“It’s an incredible honor,” Hartline said. “Coach Day could have chosen anyone in the country for this role, and he entrusted me with it. That means a lot.”
While this isn’t Hartline’s first time holding the offensive coordinator title—he previously served in that capacity in 2023 before Chip Kelly’s arrival—this will be his first opportunity as the primary play caller. Learning from Kelly, who recently became the Las Vegas Raiders’ offensive coordinator, gave Hartline valuable insight into leading an offense.
“I learned so much from him—his daily operations, game-day decision-making, how he installs plays, and his communication with Coach Day,” Hartline said. “But above all, his organization and communication style stood out the most.”
Hartline, who has been part of Ohio State’s coaching staff since 2017, has consistently pushed himself to improve.
“If you’re not growing every year, you’re falling behind,” he said.
Even after celebrating a national championship just three weeks ago, Hartline is already focused on the next season. However, winning a title at his alma mater remains a special moment.
“It’s still sinking in,” Hartline said. “I don’t want to just move past it without appreciating it, but I’m also already thinking about the next step. I’m really proud—especially for Coach Day, our staff, and the seniors. That achievement will last forever.”
As he continues coaching Ohio State’s wide receivers alongside his new responsibilities, Hartline is challenging the returning players to aim higher.
“Winning one title is great, but true greatness is defined by consistency,” he said. “Many of our guys have done it once—now the challenge is to do it again.”
Hartline attended Monday’s banquet to receive the Ohio Gold Award, the highest honor from the Columbus Chapter, recognizing significant contributions to college football in Ohio. He joins an esteemed group of past winners, including Woody Hayes, Archie Griffin, Jim Tressel, and Jack Nicklaus.
“The list of past recipients speaks for itself,” Hartline said. “I was genuinely surprised and honored. I just want to continue living up to that standard.”
Other honorees included former Ohio State special teams standout Nate Ebner, who received the Tyson Gentry Courage Award, and former Buckeye linemen Seth McLaughlin and Jacoby Boren, both recognized as NFF Scholar-Athletes. Longtime coach Bill Conley was also honored for his contributions to high school football.
