Ohio State Buckeyes offensive coordinator Brian Hartline looks like a genius for how redshirt sophomore Julian Sayin has looked so far through the first three games of the 2025 season. It's gotten him noticed as a candidate for one of the most notable head coaching jobs available.
UCLA Bruins On SI's Andrew L. Ferguson Jr. sees Hartline as a similar caliber DeShaun Foster replacement to Miami Dolphins head coach Mike McDaniel, who may soon be out of a job given his team's 0-3 start.
"Since Hartline became the WR coach for Ohio State, the team has been near the top in offensive scoring totals. Wide Receiver units have excelled, producing many 1,000-yard seasons with different players and producing many first-round draft picks. The Buckeyes remain one of the league's premier offenses, and Hartline can take some credit for it," Ferguson wrote.
"Hartline has been able to radically change the culture for the Buckeyes, even at positions that aren't considered big-time. This is something the Bruins desperately need. Although some stars have emerged from UCLA, the team desperately needs someone to develop players consistently.
"I mentioned in the last coach profile that Mike McDaniel is a potential candidate for the Bruins' head coaching job, and his name carries significant weight in recruitment. The same can be said for Hartline; while not as accomplished, he is still renowned as an excellent player developer.
"As the Bruins continue their coaching search, Hartline remains a name to watch. For a program that is desperate to establish themselves in the BIG 10, a coach like Hartline who has a reputation for development and recruiting, could be that person."
Brian Hartline isn't leaving Ohio State for UCLA
Here's the problem with Ferguson's scenario: Hartline isn't going to leave the Buckeyes for the Bruins, even if it meant having a head coach title for the first time in his career. Hartline has been coaching since 2017, though, and his entire experience is with OSU.
If he stays and builds a dynasty with Ryan Day, Ohio State's offensive coordinator job could pay more than the UCLA head coaching job. Hartline only made $1 million less than Foster before the latter's firing.
Oregon Ducks offensive coordinator Will Stein wouldn't leave Eugene for Westwood if offered the chance. Why would Hartline?
If anything, Hartline ought to wait it out and see if Day would take an NFL job, then receive the internal promotion. Not unlike Day taking over after Urban Meyer's departure. Hartline is already delegating responsibilities and collaborating as offensive coordinator, setting the stage for a future head coaching career.
Just not with the Bruins.