Brian Hartline, the offensive coordinator for Ohio State, has surfaced as a potential candidate for the coaching position at Penn State. Sources including Lions247 and Blue-White Illustrated have confirmed this development amid the ongoing search for a new head coach.
Who is Brian Hartline?
Hartline’s coaching career began after his six-year stint in the NFL, concluding in 2015. He started as an offensive quality control assistant at Ohio State in 2017, quickly ascending to the role of receivers coach in 2018. His tenure as a position coach has been marked by significant success.
- Developed notable NFL talents like Marvin Harrison Jr., Garrett Wilson, and Chris Olave.
- Promoted to offensive coordinator first in 2023 and again this offseason.
- This year, the Ohio State offense leads the nation, averaging 36 points per game.
The Prospects
Hartline’s young age, early success, and ability to recruit effectively make him an intriguing choice for Penn State. His familiarity with Pennsylvania could play a role in his recruiting potential, especially given his connection to local talents like Harrison Jr. Many young coaches, such as Dan Lanning at Oregon, have made successful transitions to head coaching roles, raising expectations for Hartline.
Considerations for Penn State
However, there are risks associated with hiring Hartline. As a first-time head coach, he lacks experience in program management and staff organization. Additionally, questions remain about how much of Ohio State’s offensive output can be attributed to Hartline versus head coach Ryan Day.
Penn State will face Ohio State this weekend, providing a direct opportunity to evaluate Hartline’s offensive strategies. The kickoff is set for noon on FOX. Keep an eye on El-Balad for further updates on the Penn State coaching search.
