Ryan Day sparked widespread discussion after announcing that Matt Patricia would be joining Ohio State as the team’s new defensive coordinator. The decision received mixed reactions due to Patricia’s controversial reputation. While his coaching results have been a topic of debate, his demeanor off the field has often been criticized. However, after leading the Buckeyes to a national championship last season, Day saw this as a calculated risk worth taking.
Patricia steps into the role previously held by Jim Knowles, who departed to coach at the professional level. Although Patricia brings 15 years of NFL experience, including three Super Bowl wins with the New England Patriots, his track record is not without its flaws. He served as defensive coordinator under Bill Belichick before taking over as the Detroit Lions’ head coach in 2018. His tenure in Detroit was largely disappointing, with a record of 13-29-1, and reports of strained relationships with players added to the controversy. A brief stint with the Philadelphia Eagles followed, but it did little to improve his coaching reputation.
BREAKING: Five-Star Ohio State WR commit Chris Henry Jr. has Shut Down his Recruitment, he tells me for @on3recruits
He has also cancelled his Official Visits to Oregon, USC, & Miami
“I want to be in Columbus and I want to be a Buckeye.”https://t.co/ih4BKIch35 pic.twitter.com/eh7k3WayMh
— Hayes Fawcett (@Hayesfawcett3) April 1, 2025
Despite these concerns, Ryan Day, fresh off a national championship, chose to bring Patricia on board. The Eagles opted not to renew Patricia’s contract, leading him to Columbus, where he quickly settled into his new role. With spring practices now underway, Patricia is tasked with developing a defense featuring several new faces. Safety coach Matt Guerrieri offered insights into Patricia’s early impact, emphasizing his ability to structure defensive schemes. Guerrieri stated that Patricia’s experience in utilizing multiple safeties and corners would be a key asset, describing him as a “guru” in defensive personnel management.
Patricia takes charge of a defense with eight new starters. While his NFL tenure showcased strategic versatility, reports suggest that he is sticking closely to Knowles’s defensive framework, albeit with modified terminology. Zach Smith of Menace 2 Sports indicated that Patricia is effectively maintaining the same defensive approach but with different play calls. Given Ohio State’s standing as the top defense in the nation last season, Patricia’s challenge will be to maintain that standard while integrating his own strategies. Additionally, Day must ensure that Patricia aligns with the team’s culture and vision.
Beyond the coaching changes, Ohio State secured a significant recruiting victory with the commitment of five-star wide receiver Chris Henry Jr. The son of former Cincinnati Bengals receiver Chris Henry, the young prospect is considered one of the top wide receivers in the 2026 class. He recently announced his decision to shut down his recruitment process, canceling visits to Oregon, USC, and Miami in favor of Ohio State. Henry Jr. expressed his enthusiasm for joining the Buckeyes, declaring his intent to play in Columbus.
A highly-rated recruit, Henry Jr. is known for his explosiveness, agility, and ability to make big plays. Though he missed his junior season due to a knee injury, he previously earned recognition as a MaxPreps Freshman All-American. Analysts praise his deep-threat ability, precise route-running, and strong hands, making him a valuable addition to Ohio State’s receiving corps.
With a new coaching staff and roster adjustments, Ryan Day faces the challenge of maintaining the Buckeyes’ championship-caliber performance. The season ahead will reveal whether his strategic decisions, including Patricia’s hire, will help Ohio State sustain its dominance.