Penn State’s coaching search has expanded into Big Ten territory, with Ohio State offensive coordinator Brian Hartline emerging as a serious candidate, according to reporting from Sports Illustrated’s Pat Forde.
While on Tuesday's episode of The Dan Patrick Show, Forde said the Nittany Lions have shifted their focus after early targets, which including Indiana’s Curt Cignetti and Nebraska’s Matt Rhule, who withdrew from consideration with respective extensions.
That pivot has opened the door for high-profile assistants, most notably Hartline. He's regarded as one of the nation’s top recruiters and rising offensive minds. Two big positives for the Nittany Lions.
“I think they’re looking at a lot of different areas,” Forde said. “A lot of talk about assistant coaches... Brian Hartline at Ohio State, possibly Joe Brady from the Bills. So there are options there.”
Hartline’s work in Columbus has made him an attractive option for programs seeking an offensive overhaul. After joining Ohio State’s staff in 2017, he developed multiple first-round receivers, became a recruiting force and has transitioned into play-calling duties. This season, Hartline has guided the Buckeyes to the nation’s No. 1 passing efficiency ranking while first-year starter and Heisman Trophy candidate Julian Sayin has thrown for 2,675 yards and 26 touchdowns.
Hartline's Big Ten experience and track record address two areas Penn State has struggled in recent years. Urban Meyer recently endorsed Hartline for a head-coaching role, adding momentum to his candidacy as well.
Penn State’s search is expected to run into December, but Hartline is firmly in the mix as athletic director Pat Kraft seeks to steer the program back toward national relevance in the post-James Franklin era.
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