Ohio State’s offensive coaching staff is taking shape with a focus on continuity. Shortly after announcing the hiring of Tyler Bowen as the new offensive line coach, the Buckeyes solidified their coaching structure by promoting wide receivers coach Brian Hartline to offensive coordinator and offensive analyst Billy Fessler to quarterbacks coach. These internal promotions provide stability as Ohio State transitions to a new quarterback and introduces Hartline as a first-time play-caller.
Head coach Ryan Day previously gave Hartline a chance to call plays during the spring and summer of 2023, but ultimately retained control of the offense. Now, with two more years of experience under his belt, Hartline has earned Day’s trust to take full command of the role. Beyond his play-calling potential, Hartline’s promotion also helps Ohio State retain one of the nation’s top recruiters and wide receiver developers.
Fessler, meanwhile, proved his coaching capabilities last season while working alongside Chip Kelly, earning praise from players like Will Howard for his contributions to quarterback development. With previous experience as both a quarterbacks coach and offensive coordinator at Akron, Fessler brings a solid foundation to his new role, even though he previously served in a support-staff position.
