Matt Patricia, a former staffer of Bill Belichick with the New England Patriots, is enjoying a successful tenure in college football. As the defensive coordinator at Ohio State, he has played a key role in the team’s impressive performance this season.
Patricia’s Impact at Ohio State
The Ohio State Buckeyes stand undefeated with a record of 7-0, attributing part of their success to Patricia’s leadership on defense. They lead the FBS with an average of just 5.9 points allowed per game, showcasing their resilience and effectiveness on the field.
Patricia’s Previous Experience
Before joining Ohio State, Patricia gained significant experience in the NFL. He worked with the Patriots for several years, serving in various positions from 2004 to 2011. He was promoted to defensive coordinator in 2012, during which time the team recorded an impressive 75-21 overall record. In 2016, the Patriots allowed just 15.6 points per game, which contributed to their Super Bowl victory.
However, his time as head coach of the Detroit Lions was marked by challenges, culminating in a 13-29-1 record before his dismissal in late 2020. After returning briefly to the Patriots, he took on a role with the Philadelphia Eagles in 2023 before transitioning to his current position.
Patricia’s Enthusiasm for College Football
On the “Ryan Day Radio Show,” Patricia expressed his excitement about Ohio State. He described the experience as “unbelievable” and praised the vibrant fan atmosphere. His children have also enjoyed the remarkable sports environment, underscoring how the whole family has embraced this new chapter in their lives.
Defensive Dominance
Patricia’s defense has been notably effective, allowing single-digit points in all but one game this season. Their recent match against the Wisconsin Badgers highlighted this dominance, where they restricted the opposing team to just 49 passing yards, culminating in a decisive 34-0 win.
Looking Ahead
The Buckeyes will take a weekend off to regroup before facing a crucial matchup against Penn State on November 1. As the season progresses, Patricia’s ability to maintain the strength of the Ohio State defense will be vital for their continued success.
