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Ohio State Coordinators Take Sideline Approach
3 Sep
Summary
- Coordinators will call plays from the field, not the booth.
- Arthur Smith has NFL success coaching from the sideline.
- Michigan used this setup during their 2022 championship season.
Heading into the 2026 season, Ohio State's head coach Ryan Day has decided on an unconventional strategy for his coordinators. Both new offensive coordinator Arthur Smith and defensive coordinator Matt Patricia will be directing plays from the field, mirroring a tactic employed by rival Michigan.
This decision means coordinators will be in direct communication with players and staff on the sidelines, rather than observing from the booth which offers a broader view. Arthur Smith, who previously served as an NFL offensive coordinator for four seasons, achieved playoff appearances in each of those years.
Matt Patricia also has experience with this sideline approach, having done so during his tenure with the Philadelphia Eagles in 2023. This setup was notably used by Michigan during their undefeated 2022 Big Ten championship season, where their coordinators operated from the field.
The Buckeyes are adopting a strategy that proved successful for a major rival. While talent and execution are paramount, the close proximity to players on the sideline may offer an advantage during intense game moments. Ohio State will now see if this strategy can replicate its success in Columbus.
