Report: USF expected to hire Ohio State's Hartline as new coach

Ohio State offensive coordinator Brian Hartline is expected to become the next head coach at South Florida, sources told ESPN's Pete Thamel.

Hartline, 39, has built a reputation as one of the top recruiters in the country. He's credited with developing several standout wide receivers during his tenure with the Buckeyes, including alumni Emeka Egbuka, Marvin Harrison Jr., Chris Olave, and Jaxon Smith-Njigba. Jeremiah Smith, Carnell Tate, and Brandon Inniss headline one of the deepest WR corps in the nation this season.

USF began seeking a new coach after Alex Golesh left to take the same position at Auburn on Sunday. Golesh guided the Bulls to a 23-15 record over three seasons.

Hartline joined the Buckeyes' coaching staff in 2017 as a quality control coach after playing in the NFL for seven seasons. A former Ohio State receiver himself, Hartline has led the position group since 2018 and became the team's offensive coordinator in 2023. He took over play-calling duties this season.