Matt Patricia Named Defensive Coordinator for Ohio State

COLUMBUS, Ohio – Ohio State University has officially hired former New England Patriots defensive coordinator Matt Patricia as its new defensive coordinator for the 2025 football season, the university confirmed on Wednesday. Patricia replaces Jim Knowles, who departed in January to join Penn State as their defensive coordinator.

Patricia, known for his role in helping the Patriots secure two Super Bowl titles, will bring extensive experience to Ohio State’s coaching staff. During his tenure with the Patriots from 2009 to 2017, the team ranked in the top 10 for points allowed per game in eight out of nine seasons, highlighted by leading the league in scoring defense during the 2016 Super Bowl-winning season.

“We are excited to welcome Coach Patricia to our program,” said Ohio State’s spokesperson. “His impressive track record in the NFL speaks for itself, and we believe he is the right leader to guide our defense moving forward.”

In addition to Patricia’s hiring, the Buckeyes are promoting Tim Walton from secondary coach to co-defensive coordinator, and Matt Guerrieri, the safeties coach, to passing game coordinator. This restructuring is aimed at maintaining the high level of performance seen in recent seasons.

Patricia’s experience stretches beyond the NFL, as his coaching career began at the collegiate level in 1996. He started as a graduate assistant at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute before becoming the defensive line coach at Amherst College. His return to college football comes after a stint that included head coaching responsibilities with the Detroit Lions from 2018 to 2020, where he finished with a record of 13-29-1.

Though his time with the Lions was challenging, Patricia’s ability to oversee elite defensive units in New England has made him a sought-after candidate. Following his dismissal in Detroit, he returned to the Patriots as an offensive play-caller for the 2022 season, and spent 2023 with the Philadelphia Eagles as a senior defensive assistant. “I’m ready for this opportunity,” Patricia stated. “Ohio State is a program with a rich tradition, and I’m eager to contribute to its success.”

As Ohio State looks to defend its national championship title, the program aims to capitalize on Patricia’s expertise in designing strong defensive strategies. His coaching staff will include returning assistants Larry Johnson (defensive line) and James Laurinaitis (linebackers), ensuring continuity while integrating Patricia’s philosophy.

With the recent changes, Ohio State hopes to maintain its competitive edge in college football, focusing on winning championships. Patricia’s reputation for defensive adjustments during the season is a promising factor for the Buckeyes as they prepare for the upcoming year.