Ryan Day's Buckeyes prepare for a challenging season with NFL experience on the coaching staff
Category: Sports
Ohio State football is set to kick off its 2026 season with a notable shift in coaching strategy, as newly appointed offensive coordinator Arthur Smith will be calling plays from the field rather than the traditional press box. This decision marks a departure from recent practices where previous coordinators, including Brian Hartline and Chip Kelly, operated from the booth. Head coach Ryan Day confirmed this development during a press conference ahead of the Buckeyes’ season opener against Ball State on September 5, 2026.
Smith, who joined the Buckeyes staff in late January 2026, brings a wealth of NFL experience to the role, having previously was the head coach of the Atlanta Falcons and as an offensive coordinator for the Tennessee Titans and Pittsburgh Steelers. His hiring reflects Ohio State's commitment to enhancing its coaching staff with seasoned professionals, aiming to maintain its status as a powerhouse in college football.
In a departure from the norm, Day explained the rationale behind Smith's field position: "When you're on the sideline… it's hard to get your next series ready. When you're up there, you get a desk. You can sit down. You can get your thoughts organized for the next series. You can communicate well." This change aims to streamline communication and preparation, allowing Smith to engage more directly with players during games.
The decision is particularly timely as the Buckeyes face a challenging schedule this season, highlighted by a highly anticipated matchup against the Texas Longhorns on September 12, 2026. Ohio State's recent history against Texas has been competitive, and the upcoming game is expected to be a key indicator of the team's performance this season.
Day's tenure as head coach has seen a series of strategic changes. He became the head coach in 2019 and was heavily involved in play calling until 2023, when he handed over those responsibilities to Chip Kelly. Under Kelly's guidance, Ohio State secured the national championship in 2024, a feat that underscored the effectiveness of delegating play-calling duties. Day has since focused on his role as the program's CEO, emphasizing organizational leadership and player development.
Ohio State's coaching strategy has evolved significantly over the years. From 2017 to 2022, Kevin Wilson was the offensive coordinator, operating from the booth and assisting both Day and former head coach Urban Meyer. Following Wilson's departure, the Buckeyes turned to Hartline, who spent one season on the field before transitioning to the booth in 2025. Hartline's exit to become the head coach at the University of South Florida created an opening that Day sought to fill with a candidate who could bring fresh insights and experience.
Smith's hiring is indicative of a broader trend in college football, where programs increasingly seek out coaches with NFL backgrounds to bring a professional-level approach to their teams. Ohio State is unique in this regard, as it is currently the only college program with two former NFL head coaches on its coaching staff—Smith and defensive coordinator Matt Patricia, who previously led the Detroit Lions and has won two Super Bowl titles as a defensive coordinator. Patricia's presence has also been instrumental in revitalizing Ohio State's defense, which has consistently ranked among the best in the nation.
The financial investment in the coaching staff is substantial, with Smith's salary set at $1.5 million for 2026, increasing to $2 million in 2027, and Patricia earning $3.75 million, making him the highest-paid coordinator in college football. Day's own salary stands at $12.5 million, highlighting Ohio State's commitment to excellence and its status as a powerhouse in college athletics.
As the Buckeyes prepare for their upcoming game against Texas, the focus will be on how well Smith's offensive strategies translate to game situations. Quarterback Julian Sayin, who had an impressive 320-yard performance against Ball State, will be key to executing Smith's game plan. Sayin expressed confidence in Smith's coaching style, stating, "He’s been great. Such a bright offensive mind and somebody who I can really pick his brain." This rapport between quarterback and coordinator will be integral as Ohio State faces tougher competition.
The matchup against Texas is particularly important, as it serves as a litmus test for the Buckeyes’ season. The Longhorns, currently ranked fourth in the AP Poll, are expected to challenge Ohio State's newly implemented offensive strategies. Day acknowledged the significance of the game, saying, "It’s time to get going with the games and see what we have." The outcome could have implications for the rest of the season, influencing both the team’s morale and its standing in the national rankings.
Looking ahead, Ohio State's athletic director Ross Bjork has indicated that the program aims to maintain continuity with its coaching staff, especially with the success seen under Patricia's leadership. The Buckeyes are expected to continue investing in their coaching staff, with long-term contracts and competitive salaries to attract and retain top talent.
As the 2026 season progresses, attention will turn to Ohio State to see how these strategic changes impact their pursuit of another national championship. The Buckeyes' commitment to excellence, combined with the wealth of experience on their coaching staff, positions them as formidable contenders in college football.