Ohio State reportedly hires Bill O'Brien to run offense

Field Level Media|published: Fri 19th January, 10:22 2024

Aug 25, 2023; Nashville, Tennessee, USA; New England Patriots offensive coordinator Bill O'Brien talks with quarterback Bailey Zappe (4) during the first half against the Tennessee Titans at Nissan Stadium. credits: Christopher Hanewinckel-USA TODAY Sports

Ohio State is on the verge of hiring Bill O'Brien as offensive coordinator, multiple outlets reported.

He is expected to take over play-calling from head coach Ryan Day and also mentor Buckeyes' quarterbacks.

O'Brien has a promising record working with quarterbacks, including Tom Brady during his first stint on the New England Patriots' coaching staff more than a decade ago.

O'Brien, 54, spent the 2023 season as the offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach in New England, following two seasons in the same role on Nick Saban's staff at Alabama. He was the head coach of the Houston Texans (2014-20) and Penn State (2012-13) after experience as an assistant coach at both the pro and college levels.

At Alabama, the O'Brien-led offense averaged 39.9 and 41.1 points per game in his two seasons.

In 2023, Ohio State averaged 30.5 points per game, good for 44th in the nation. In 2022, the Buckeyes were second in the nation with 44.2 points per game.

The dropoff in points followed the shift from C.J. Stroud to Kyle McCord as starting quarterback.

In 2024, Ohio State's quarterback depth chart will include Will Howard, formerly of Kansas State, and five-star recruit Air Noland, ranked as the nation's No. 4 team by the 247Sports composite.

The offense will be boosted by the addition of two-time All-SEC tailback Quinshon Judkins, an Ole Miss transfer, as will as the returns of standout wide receiver Emeka Egbuka and running back TreVeyon Henderson.

—Field Level Media