Ohio State Taps Former Falcons Coach Arthur Smith to Command Offense
Ohio State University officials are finalizing an agreement to hire former NFL head coach Arthur Smith as the new offensive coordinator, sources confirmed on Sunday. The move brings extensive professional experience to Columbus as head coach Ryan Day reshapes his staff for the 2026 season following recent coaching turnovers.
Ryan Day Doubles Down on Professional Model
Ohio State continues to prioritize NFL pedigree over traditional college coaching pathways, this strategy became evident after the earlier hiring of former Detroit Lions coach Matt Patricia. The offensive coordinator position became vacant on December 31 following Brian Hartline's departure to become head coach at the University of South Florida. The Buckeyes are looking to rebound from a disappointing late season slump in 2025 which ended with a Cotton Bowl loss to Miami, head coach Ryan Day is now stepping back from play calling duties to focus on overall program management. This transition mirrors the structure of professional franchises where the head coach functions more like a chief executive officer.
Veteran Play Caller Takes Charge of Unit
Arthur Smith arrives in Columbus with over two decades of coaching experience, he most recently served as offensive coordinator for the Pittsburgh Steelers during their 2025 AFC North title run. Reports indicate the university offered a multi year contract that places Smith among the highest paid assistants in collegiate football. He is expected to implement a physical offensive identity that emphasizes the running game and uses tight ends heavily, this approach marks a distinct change from recent air raid concepts used by the program. Smith previously served as head coach for the Atlanta Falcons where he faced criticism for his usage of skill players, yet his time with the Tennessee Titans produced dominant rushing attacks.
Scheme Questions Surround Star Roster
The incoming coordinator inherits a roster filled with elite talent including quarterback Julian Sayin and wide receiver Jeremiah Smith. The primary challenge involves merging Smith's preferred zone run schemes with the explosive passing abilities of Ohio State's current personnel. Analysts suggest the offense will look significantly different than previous years, the focus will likely shift toward ball control and physical dominance at the line of scrimmage.
Players Prepared for Major Tactical Shift
The hiring signals a clear message to current players and recruits that Ohio State functions as a direct pipeline to the professional ranks, this pitch aims to secure top tier talent looking for NFL readiness. Quarterback Julian Sayin will likely benefit from a pro style progression system designed to prepare him for the 2027 draft. However, experts warn that wide receivers may see fewer targets if the offense pivots toward a heavy ground game, the coaching staff must find a balance to maximize their wealth of talent on the field.
The Buckeyes open their 2026 campaign with high expectations for a Big Ten Championship return. Officials hope this bold hire provides the tactical discipline needed to secure a top seed in the expanded playoff format.
