Ohio State’s decision to hire Matt Patricia as their new defensive coordinator has raised eyebrows among fans and analysts alike. Patricia, a former NFL head coach with the Detroit Lions and defensive coordinator for the New England Patriots, brings a wealth of professional experience to the Buckeyes. However, his recent coaching history and the context of this hire have led many to question the fit.

Patricia’s tenure as head coach of the Detroit Lions from 2018 to 2020 was notably unsuccessful, with a record of 13 wins, 29 losses, and 1 tie. This performance has been a significant point of criticism in discussions about his suitability for the Ohio State role.

Furthermore, Patricia’s recent stint with the Philadelphia Eagles in 2023 as a senior defensive assistant did not yield positive results. After taking over defensive play-calling duties late in the season, the Eagles lost three of their final four regular-season games and were eliminated in the wild card round of the playoffs with a 32-9 loss to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

Critics argue that Ohio State, coming off a national championship with a top-ranked defense under former coordinator Jim Knowles, should have sought a candidate with a more consistent track record of success at the collegiate level. The decision to replace Knowles, who departed for Penn State, with Patricia has been described as puzzling, given the latter’s recent coaching challenges.

In summary, while Matt Patricia’s extensive NFL experience is undeniable, his recent coaching history raises valid concerns about his fit as Ohio State’s defensive coordinator. The Buckeyes’ choice to bring him on board has been met with skepticism, with many questioning whether this is the right move for a program aiming to maintain its defensive dominance.