Ohio State Finalizes Deal with Former Steelers Playcaller Arthur Smith
According to a source close to the matter, as reported by ESPN’s Adam Schefter, Ohio State is on the verge of finalizing a deal to appoint former Pittsburgh Steelers playcaller Arthur Smith as its new offensive coordinator. This move comes after the recent departure of Brian Hartline, who was named the head coach at South Florida. Smith’s appointment is expected to bring a wealth of experience and expertise to the Ohio State offense.
Arthur Smith has had a storied career in the NFL, spending the last two seasons with the Pittsburgh Steelers under the guidance of Coach Mike Tomlin. Prior to his tenure with the Steelers, Smith served as the head coach for the Atlanta Falcons from 2021 to 2023, compiling a record of 21-30 over three seasons. Despite the challenges faced during his time with the Falcons, Smith’s ability to adapt and innovate will undoubtedly be valuable assets to the Ohio State team.
Smith’s NFL Experience and Accomplishments
During his time with the Steelers, the team ranked 15th in the NFL, averaging 22 points per game. Although they won the AFC North, their playoff run was cut short with a loss to the Houston Texans in the first round. This experience will likely influence Smith’s approach to game planning and strategy at Ohio State. With the Steelers, Smith was part of a coaching team that emphasized discipline, resilience, and creative playcalling, all of which will be essential in his new role.
Notably, Smith spent 10 years as an assistant with the Tennessee Titans before taking over as head coach in Atlanta in 2021. This extensive experience in the NFL will provide him with a unique perspective and skill set, enabling him to make a significant impact on the Ohio State offense. His ability to develop and execute effective game plans, combined with his knowledge of player development, will be crucial in maximizing the potential of the team’s talented roster.
Ohio State’s Offensive Potential
In Columbus, Smith will have the opportunity to work with one of the top returning offensive trios in the country. Quarterback Julian Sayin, a Heisman finalist in his first season as starting quarterback, along with freshman sensation Bo Jackson, who rushed for 1,090 yards, and two-time All-American wide receiver Jeremiah Smith, will form the core of the Buckeyes’ offense. This talented group will provide Smith with a solid foundation to build upon and implement his offensive strategies.
Despite finishing the regular season undefeated, the Buckeyes faced setbacks with a loss to Indiana in the Big Ten championship and a subsequent defeat to Miami in the quarterfinal of the playoffs. With Smith at the helm of the offense, the team will look to address these shortcomings and make a deeper run in the playoffs. His experience and expertise will be invaluable in helping the team navigate the challenges of the competitive Big Ten conference and beyond.
As the details of Smith’s appointment are finalized, Ohio State fans and the broader college football community are eagerly anticipating the impact he will have on the team’s offense. With his wealth of experience, innovative approach to playcalling, and ability to develop talent, Arthur Smith is poised to make a significant contribution to the Buckeyes’ success in the coming seasons.
