Breaking News: Former NFL Coach Matt Patricia Emerges as Ohio State DC Candidate, Bringing NFL Experience but…

In a significant development for Ohio State football, former NFL coach Matt Patricia has emerged as a candidate for the Buckeyes’ defensive coordinator position. Patricia was recently in Columbus to discuss the role, signaling Ohio State’s intent to leverage his extensive NFL experience to bolster their defensive strategies.

Matt Patricia’s Coaching Background

Matt Patricia’s coaching career spans two decades, primarily within the NFL. He is best known for his tenure with the New England Patriots, where he served as the defensive coordinator from 2012 to 2017. During this period, the Patriots secured two Super Bowl victories and consistently ranked among the league’s top defenses.

In 2018, Patricia took on the role of head coach for the Detroit Lions. However, his tenure was challenging, culminating in his dismissal in 2020 after accumulating a 13–29–1 record. He subsequently returned to the Patriots in various capacities, including as a senior football advisor and offensive line coach. Most recently, Patricia served as a senior defensive assistant for the Philadelphia Eagles in 2023.

Ohio State’s Defensive Coordinator Vacancy

The Buckeyes are seeking a new defensive coordinator following the departure of Jim Knowles, who accepted the same position at Penn State. Knowles’ exit has prompted head coach Ryan Day to explore candidates who can maintain and enhance the defensive prowess that Ohio State has been known for.

Potential Impact of Patricia’s Hiring

Bringing Matt Patricia into the collegiate ranks could have several implications for Ohio State:

1. NFL Experience – Patricia’s extensive NFL background, particularly his success with the Patriots, could introduce advanced defensive schemes and a professional approach to the Buckeyes’ defense.
2. Recruitment Appeal – His NFL pedigree might attract recruits aspiring to reach the professional level, offering them mentorship from someone who has coached at the highest tier of football.
3. Coaching Dynamics – Transitioning from the NFL to college football presents challenges, including adapting to NCAA regulations and the developmental focus of collegiate athletics. Patricia’s ability to connect with younger athletes and navigate the recruiting landscape would be crucial.

Other Candidates in Consideration

While Patricia is a prominent candidate, Ohio State is also evaluating internal options:

• Matt Guerrieri – Currently serving as Ohio State’s safeties coach, Guerrieri has a longstanding association with defensive coordinator Jim Knowles, dating back to their time at Duke University. He returned to Ohio State after a stint as Indiana’s co-defensive coordinator and safeties coach.
• Tim Walton – The Buckeyes’ secondary coach since 2022, Walton brings over a decade of NFL coaching experience and has played a key role in developing Ohio State’s defensive backs.

If Ohio State ultimately hires Patricia, it would mark a major shift in the program’s defensive philosophy, blending NFL-level strategy with the fast-paced demands of college football. However, the decision will come down to whether Ryan Day and his staff believe Patricia’s skill set is the right fit for the Buckeyes’ needs.