In a surprising move that’s got folks talking across both college and pro football, Ohio State has brought in former Pittsburgh Steelers offensive coordinator Arthur Smith for the same role with the Buckeyes. It’s a bit of a twist, seeing Smith back in college, and it fits with head coach Ryan Day’s pattern of hiring coordinators with NFL backgrounds.
There’s more to this hire than just X’s and O’s. Smith’s family ties to FedEx could end up shaking up Ohio State’s Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) efforts in a big way.
Arthur Smith’s Journey from the NFL to Ohio State
Smith’s coaching story has mostly unfolded in the NFL. He joined the Tennessee Titans back in 2011 and worked his way up to offensive coordinator.
After a solid run with the Titans, Smith landed the head coaching job with the Atlanta Falcons. That stint lasted three seasons before he was let go, and then he took over as offensive coordinator for the Steelers for the past two years.
Smith’s College Coaching Experience
Even though the NFL has been his main stage, Smith isn’t a total stranger to college football. He was a defensive intern at North Carolina in 2006 and did the same gig at Ole Miss in 2010.
Now, with Ohio State, he’s stepping back into the college world—a pretty big shift for him, honestly.
Ryan Day’s Strategy: NFL Experience in College Football
Ryan Day seems to have a thing for NFL resumes. In 2024, he brought in Chip Kelly, who’d just finished up at UCLA and had head coaching experience in the NFL too.
Day also snagged Matt Patricia, who’d called plays for the Patriots and led the Lions, to run the Buckeyes’ defense.
Benefits Beyond the Playbook
Sure, Smith’s offensive chops are the main draw. But there’s more at play here. The Buckeyes lost Brian Hartline to the USF job, and Smith’s experience is expected to fill that gap.
And then there’s the NIL angle, which could end up being the real game-changer.
The NIL Advantage: Smith’s Family Connections
Arthur Smith’s late father, Frederick W. Smith, started FedEx—a company that’s still a family affair. That connection could open some serious doors for Ohio State’s NIL efforts.
James T. Yoder at Chat Sports even suggested that bringing in Smith might be one of the savviest NIL funding moves we’ve seen in college football.
Ohio State’s NIL Leadership
Ohio State’s already been out in front in the NIL era, landing and keeping top players. If Smith’s FedEx ties give them another boost, the Buckeyes could become an even bigger magnet for elite recruits.
It wouldn’t be a shock to see Ohio State’s recruiting power surge even more if this all comes together.
Mixed Reactions to the Hire
The football world hasn’t exactly agreed on this move. ESPN’s Sam Block is all for it, pointing to Ohio State’s knack for making unconventional hires like Chip Kelly and Matt Patricia work out.
On the other hand, CBS Sports’ Shehan Jeyarajah and Emmanuel Acho aren’t so sure Smith’s the right fit for the college game.
Critics and Supporters
Some folks say Smith’s NFL offenses were a bit bland, maybe even predictable, and wonder what he’ll actually bring to Columbus. But others argue that with Ohio State’s talent, his NFL experience could finally shine.
With players like receiver Jeremiah Smith and quarterback Julian Sayin, the pieces are there for Smith to build something special on offense.
What This Means for Ohio State
Smith’s leap from the NFL to college football is definitely going to be under the microscope. The Buckeyes’ offense has a ton of talent—maybe the most Smith’s ever coached.
Whether he can adjust to the college game and put his experience to work will be a big storyline for Ohio State this season.
Potential Impact on Recruiting
If Smith manages to blend his NFL-style offense with Ohio State’s talent, it could shake up recruiting in a big way.
High school prospects are always on the lookout for programs that feel like a stepping stone to the NFL. Smith’s background might just make Ohio State stand out even more.
For more details, check out the full article on Heavy.com.
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