Sources indicate that South Florida will appoint Brian Hartline, Ohio State's offensive coordinator, as their head coach.

South Florida is set to hire Ohio State's offensive coordinator, Brian Hartline, as their next head coach, according to multiple sources. The Bulls are continuing their trend of bringing in offensive-minded coaches from power conferences. Hartline is expected to sign a six-year contract and will remain with Ohio State through the College Football Playoff before transitioning to USF.

Brian Hartline, 39, is a former Ohio State wide receiver and has spent several years coaching with the Buckeyes. After retiring from the NFL, Hartline joined Ohio State in 2017 as a quality control coach. He was promoted to wide receivers coach in 2018, a position he held for five seasons, before being named offensive coordinator in 2023. With the arrival of Chip Kelly in 2024, Hartline served as co-offensive coordinator, helping Ohio State capture the College Football Playoff title. Following Kellys departure to the NFL, Hartline reassumed the full offensive coordinator duties in 2025.

This season marked a shift in responsibilities for Hartline, as he took over play-calling duties after Ohio State head coach Ryan Day had previously delegated them to Kelly. Through 12 games, the Buckeyes are averaging 37 points per contest, and quarterback Julian Sayin is on pace to challenge the FBS single-season completion percentage record.

Although Hartline has only coached in Ohio at the collegiate level, he has strong ties to Florida. He was drafted by the Miami Dolphins in the fourth round of the 2009 NFL Draft and spent six seasons with the team before concluding his playing career with the Cleveland Browns. Over his NFL career, Hartline recorded 344 receptions for 4,766 yards and 14 touchdowns, including two 1,000-yard seasons with the Dolphins in 2012 and 2013.

Hartline will take over the Bulls from Alex Golesh, who left USF to become Auburns head coach. During Goleshs tenure, USF posted a 7-6 record in his first two seasons and finished 9-3 in 2025, scoring an average of 43 points per game while gaining more than seven yards per play.

Analysis: South Florida's New Direction with Brian Hartline

The University of South Florida (USF) has made a significant move in hiring Brian Hartline as their next head coach, continuing their trend of prioritizing offensive-minded leaders from power conferences. Hartline, a former Ohio State wide receiver and a well-respected coach, brings with him a wealth of experience, especially in developing high-powered offenses. His success as Ohio State's offensive coordinator and his tenure with the Buckeyes position him as a strong candidate to elevate USF's program.

Hartline's offensive philosophy, which has proven successful at Ohio State, is expected to be a key asset in transforming the Bulls' offense. Under Hartline’s leadership, Ohio State averaged 37 points per game in 2025, and the team showed marked improvements in its offensive schemes. His background as both a former player and coach gives him a unique perspective that resonates with athletes, particularly wide receivers, where Hartline has extensive experience.

While Hartline's coaching career has been rooted in Ohio, his personal ties to Florida, having played for the Miami Dolphins, add a layer of familiarity to the move. This local connection may enhance his recruiting efforts and establish a strong presence in the state’s competitive football landscape.

The transition from Alex Golesh, who led USF to an impressive 9-3 record in 2025, presents a challenge. Golesh's offensive system was highly effective, and Hartline will need to maintain or improve upon these results. However, with his proven ability to develop offensive talent, particularly at the wide receiver and quarterback positions, expectations are high for Hartline to build on USF’s momentum and further establish the program’s competitiveness within the American Athletic Conference.

In conclusion, Hartline’s appointment signals a new chapter for South Florida football, one that is likely to emphasize high-scoring, dynamic offense. The coming seasons will reveal if his success at Ohio State can translate into success at USF, but early indicators suggest that the Bulls are making the right choice in pursuing an established offensive mind.

Sources:

• Sources: South Florida to hire Ohio State offensive coordinator Brian Hartline as head coach