COLUMBUS, OH – In a move that is set to shake up the college football world, Ohio State University is poised to hire former NFL coach Matt Patricia as its new defensive coordinator.
According to multiple reports, Patricia, who has extensive coaching experience in the NFL with the New England Patriots and Detroit Lions, will take over the Buckeyes’ defense as they look to remain competitive at the highest level.
The hiring of Patricia is a significant coup for Ohio State, which has been looking to bolster its defensive coaching staff after a disappointing season in 2023. The Buckeyes’ defense struggled at times last season, and the team is hoping that Patricia’s experience and expertise will help to turn things around.
“Matt Patricia is one of the most respected defensive minds in football, and we’re thrilled to have him join our staff,” said Ohio State head coach Ryan Day. “He brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to the table, and we’re confident that he’ll be able to help our defense take the next step.”
Patricia, who played college football at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, began his coaching career in the NFL as a graduate assistant with the New England Patriots in 2004. He worked his way up the coaching ranks, serving as the Patriots’ defensive coordinator from 2012 to 2017 before becoming the head coach of the Detroit Lions in 2018.
Despite his experience and success in the NFL, Patricia’s tenure as the Lions’ head coach was marked by controversy and inconsistency. He was fired by the team after just three seasons, and has been out of coaching since.
However, Patricia’s reputation as a defensive coach remains strong, and Ohio State is hoping that he can bring some of the same magic that he brought to the Patriots’ defense during his time in New England.
“Matt Patricia is a brilliant defensive mind, and we’re excited to have him join our staff,” said Ohio State athletic director Gene Smith. “He brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to the table, and we’re confident that he’ll be able to help our defense become one of the best in the country.”
The hiring of Patricia is just the latest move in what has been a busy offseason for Ohio State. The team has already made several significant coaching hires, including the addition of former NFL coach Brian Hartline as its new wide receivers coach.
With Patricia on board, Ohio State is hoping to make a deep run in the playoffs and compete for a national championship. The team’s defense will be key to its success, and Patricia’s experience and expertise will be invaluable in helping the Buckeyes achieve their goals.
“Matt Patricia is a great addition to our staff, and we’re excited to have him on board,” said Day. “We’re confident that he’ll be able to help our defense become one of the best in the country, and we’re looking forward to seeing what he can do.”
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