It's tough to put into words just what Ohio State football offensive coordinator Brian Hartline has meant to the program in recent years. He's an ace recruiter and thus far he's looked fantastic as the new play-caller for Ryan Day and the Buckeyes, who look to be in a great spot to repeat as national champs.
He's obviously a coach on the rise, and with so many job openings now available it shouldn't be a surprise that he's being linked with many of them. Unfortunately, the list includes Penn State, which made the earth-shattering move to fire James Franklin after a three-game losing streak.
Michigan finally admits guilt in the latest twist in the Connor Stalions case
Penn State is going to go all-in for a big-name hire, as its fans are already calling for Marcus Freeman to be given a blank check. However, it looks like Hartline is high on Penn State's list too, which is not good news for the Ohio State faithful who don't want him to go anywhere.
According to Joe Smeltzer Ohio State Offensive Coordinator/Wide Receiver Coach Brian Hartline is a candidate for the Penn State Head Coaching Job. pic.twitter.com/u4HXpe8x79
— The Scarlet and Gray Podcast (@TheSG_Podcast) October 27, 2025
Brian Hartline linked to the Penn State job is not good for Ohio State football
Last offseason, Penn State immediately pulled a fast one on the Buckeyes by poaching Jim Knowles from Columbus. That move has proven to be a blessing in disguise, as Knowles and Penn State are living a nightmare, while the Buckeyes and Matt Patricia have been a match made in heaven.
Could Penn State look to make another similar move in trying to get Hartline to Happy Valley? That would be a disaster. We can't stress enough how brilliant of a recruiter Hartline has been for the Buckeyes, with offensive playmakers loving the idea of making plays for him.
For the 2026 class alone, Hartline played a huge role in helping Ohio State land 5-star Chris Henry Jr., one of the top wideouts in the country. If Hartline takes a head coaching gig elsewhere, it might open the door for Henry and others to have a change of heart - let's stay optimistic that doesn't happen.
For the rest of the season, there's no question that Hartline's name is going to be brought up with all the different jobs now available across the country. Penn State, LSU, Florida... the list goes on. It's not going to be easy for Day to retain Hartline if HC offers come in. We just hope he doesn't get pulled away to a Big Ten rival.