USF's Next Move: Targeting Ohio State's Brian Hartline as Head Coach
By Matt Baker, Cameron Teague Robinson, and Chris Vannini
The University of South Florida (USF) is reportedly in the running to secure the services of Ohio State's offensive coordinator, Brian Hartline, as their next head coach. This potential move comes as a significant development in the world of college football, especially given Hartline's impressive track record and connections to the region.
The Rising Star's Journey
Hartline, a 39-year-old former Ohio State receiver, has been an integral part of the Buckeyes' success since 2017. His role has evolved over the years, starting as a wide receivers coach in 2018 and becoming the offensive coordinator in 2023. This season, he took on the additional responsibility of play-calling, further showcasing his versatility and leadership skills.
Under Hartline's guidance, the Buckeyes' offense has thrived, thanks to his ability to recruit and mentor elite receivers. He has played a pivotal role in the development of players like Terry McLaurin, Emeka Egbuka, Marvin Harrison Jr., Garrett Wilson, and Chris Olave, all of whom have gone on to have successful careers in the NFL. Ohio State's consistent first-round draft picks in the NFL draft over the last four seasons are a testament to Hartline's impact.
Hartline's Florida Connections
Hartline's ties to South Florida have been instrumental in attracting top talent. He successfully recruited Jeremiah Smith, the top-ranked player in the 2024 class, as well as five-star prospect Brandon Inniss and Carnell Tate, who played high school football at IMG Academy. Hartline's success extends beyond Florida, as he has also contributed to the development of NFL-caliber receivers.
A Strategic Departure
Hartline's potential departure from Ohio State coincides with a critical moment in the program's history. The Buckeyes are set to sign four receivers for their 2026 recruiting class, including the highly sought-after Chris Henry Jr., who has been pursued by USC and Oregon. The timing of Hartline's potential move is intriguing, especially given the ongoing recruitment efforts.
USF's Quest for Excellence
USF, a top Group of 5 program, has been striving to establish itself in a major market, Tampa, which is brimming with talent. Despite never having reached a conference championship, the Bulls have shown improvement under Jeff Scott's leadership, going 23-15 over three seasons. Golesh's success in turning the program around and securing the American Conference championship spot this fall has put USF on the map.
Building for the Future
As USF prepares for the future, the construction of a 35,000-seat on-campus football stadium is underway, set to open in 2027. This significant investment in infrastructure is a testament to the university's commitment to athletic excellence. Additionally, the opening of an indoor practice facility during Golesh's tenure has further enhanced the program's capabilities.
The Question of Succession
The potential hiring of Hartline as USF's head coach raises questions about the future of Ohio State's offensive coordination. With Hartline's departure, the Buckeyes will need to find a suitable replacement to maintain the success of their offense. The search for a new coordinator will be a critical step in ensuring the program's continued success.
The college football world awaits the outcome of this potential coaching transition, as both USF and Ohio State prepare for the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.
