Ohio State football makes a flurry of coaching moves

The Ohio State football team has been waiting to hire a tenth full-time assistant. Ryan Day was trying to figure out what he wanted to do. After firing Parker Fleming as the special teams coordinator, there was one spot left. There was one obvious thing to do, and Day finally decided to do it.

Ohio State promoted James Laurinaitis from GA to linebackers coach. He is now leading the linebackers full-time. The Buckeyes make the move to keep the legend on staff. He’s only the 8th multi-time All-American to ever play for the Buckeyes. It’s a smart move to keep him on staff for recruiting and developing the linebackers.

The Ohio State football program also gave some coaches extensions

Laurinaitis wasn’t the only coach to get good news today. Three other coaches received contract extensions, including one of Laurinaitis’ bosses. Jim Knowles received an extension as defensive coordinator. That’s also a great move because he has transformed this entire defensive unit into an elite one in just two years.

Tim Walton, the cornerbacks coach, also got an extension. His recruiting has been ridiculous, so it’s well-deserved. He also got a promotion to associate head coach. He’s been one of Day’s best hires and is a rising star on Ohio State’s staff. Walton and Hartline are proving to be two of the better recruiters not just with the Ohio State football program, but the entire country.

Keenan Bailey also got an extension as the tight ends coach. He helped get Cade Stover into some great spots to be an elite pass-catcher last season and will be tasked to do the same with the other tight ends on the roster now. The Buckeyes would love to develop another tight end as a big-time weapon.

All of these moves are good for the Buckeyes. Ohio State has had an excellent offseason and is now ready to take on Spring ball.