Brian Hartline Accepts USF Head Job, Could Remain at Ohio State Through Playoffs

/ Breaking News, NCAAF, NFL Draft, Uncategorized / By
After years crafting one of college football’s most prolific offenses, Brian Hartline is moving on — but this time to lead. On Wednesday, USF officially announced that Hartline will become the next head coach of the Bulls, ending his tenure as offensive coordinator at Ohio State and setting the stage for a major shift in both programs.
Hartline’s hire marks the start of a new era in Tampa. The 39 year old former Buckeye will take over a program coming off a 9–3 regular season under the previous staff, with expectations high given recent momentum and a brand-new on-campus stadium slated to open in 2027. Athletic leadership at USF called Hartline a “relentless recruiter, outstanding developer of talent, and gritty competitor,” citing his championship pedigree and experience developing NFL ready receivers as major reasons for the hire.
At Ohio State, Hartline built a resume few assistants can match. After returning to his alma mater, where he starred as a receiver from 2005–2008, Hartline climbed the coaching ladder from quality-control assistant in 2017 to WRs coach, and eventually offensive coordinator. Under his guidance, the Buckeyes offense consistently ranked among the nation’s best. In 2025 alone, they finished top-25 in scoring (37.0 points per game), total offense (438.5 yards per game), and passing (267 yards per game), with standout performances from players like quarterback Julian Sayin and receiver Jeremiah Smith.
Beyond X’s and O’s, Hartline’s reputation as an elite recruiter and receiver-developer played a huge role in USF’s decision. During his time at Ohio State, he helped produce a string of first-round NFL receivers — part of a legacy that offers USF both credibility and hope as they attempt to rise in a competitive American Athletic Conference.
For Ohio State, Hartline’s departure leaves a void. Both on the coaching staff and in recruiting pipelines. Head coach Ryan Day acknowledged the weight of the loss, calling Hartline’s opportunity “well earned” but admitting the Buckeyes face a challenging search to replace one of college football’s top assistants just as they prepare for the Big Ten Championship and a College Football Playoff run.

@txhsfb

Did the Ohio State Buckeyes just find Brian Hartline 2.0??? 👀 #txhsfb #football #texas #dallas #houston #austin

♬ original sound - osuvfx

For USF, the move signals bold ambition. Not just to maintain recent success, but to elevate the program. With Hartline at the helm, USF aims to return to national relevance, leveraging his experience, recruiting ties, and championship pedigree to build a contender in the AAC and beyond.

Only time will tell if the “Bulls Nation” gamble pays off. But one thing is certain; Brian Hartline isn’t just changing jerseys. He’s been given the reins to transform a program, and the expectations have never been higher.