Ryan Day Announces Coaching Staff Promotions and Additions

On February 20, 2025, Ohio State head coach Ryan Day announced significant changes to his coaching staff, including two new hires and five internal promotions. These adjustments aim to strengthen the Buckeyes’ football program as they prepare for the upcoming season.

New Hires:

1. Matt Patricia – Defensive Coordinator:
   • Background: Patricia brings a wealth of experience from the NFL, having spent 16 seasons with the New England Patriots, including nine as the defensive coordinator. During his tenure, he contributed to three Super Bowl victories. He also served as the head coach of the Detroit Lions from 2018 to 2020. citeturn0search0
   • Statement from Coach Day: “I have been aware of and followed Matt’s successful NFL career for the past 15 years… I think Matt is going to integrate into our program’s culture and values, which are the essence of who we are, very well.” citeturn0search0
2. Tyler Bowen – Offensive Line Coach and Run Game Coordinator:
   • Background: Bowen joins Ohio State after serving as the offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach at Virginia Tech. His coaching career includes stints at several Power Five programs, where he has developed a reputation for strong recruiting and offensive line development. citeturn0search0
   • Statement from Coach Day: “I am really pleased to announce the addition of Tyler Bowen, and his family, to our coaching staff… He’s a terrific coach who will bring experience to the staff along with an excellent record as a recruiter.” citeturn0search0

Promotions:

1. Brian Hartline – Offensive Coordinator:
   • Background: Hartline, a former Ohio State and NFL wide receiver, has been with the Buckeyes for eight years, primarily coaching wide receivers. Under his guidance, the program has produced several first-round NFL draft picks, including Chris Olave, Garrett Wilson, Jaxon Smith-Njigba, and Marvin Harrison Jr. citeturn0search0
   • Statement from Coach Day: “Brian did some of his best … … I think he’s going to be … .” citeturn0search0
2. Billy Fessler – Quarterbacks Coach:
   • Background: Fessler has been a program assistant and quality control coach, working closely with quarterbacks. His promotion to quarterbacks coach reflects his growing influence within the program. citeturn0search0
3. Keenan Bailey – Co-Offensive Coordinator and Tight Ends Coach:
   • Background: Bailey has been the tight ends coach and now takes on additional responsibilities as co-offensive coordinator, continuing his work with the tight ends. citeturn0search0
4. Matt Guerrieri – Pass Game Coordinator:
   • Background: Guerrieri has been promoted to pass game coordinator while continuing his role as safeties coach. citeturn0search0
5. Tim Walton – Co-Defensive Coordinator and Secondary/Corners Coach:
   • Background: Walton has been promoted to co-defensive coordinator … overseeing the secondary and cornerbacks. citeturn0search0

These strategic changes are designed to enhance Ohio State’s coaching staff, leveraging both external expertise and internal development to maintain the program’s competitive edge.