Brian Hartline downplays benefit of returning receivers for coordinator transition

As he prepares to take on his first season as Ohio State’s offensive coordinator, Brian Hartline shared the importance of returning receivers this season. The Buckeyes are set to bring back their three primary receiving weapons from last year, with Marvin Harrison Jr., Emeka Egbuka and Julian Fleming all still in the locker room for Hartline.

Brian Hartline on returning receivers helping transition

Hartline got promoted to offensive coordinator this offseason after working as the team’s wide receivers coach since 2018. He took over the vacant position after Kevin Wilson left to take the head coaching position at Tulsa.

One of the least stressful parts of his transition to coordinator will likely be the receivers room at Ohio State — with his familiarity and stability in the role giving him a head start.

Despite the returning trio of wideouts leading the way, Hartline seems to believe the entire offense makes his job easier with their talent and not just the receivers he’s keeping.

“I think having the building full of players that we have, regardless of returning starter or not, provides a great opportunity for anybody to call plays at Ohio State. So for me, regardless of returning or not, excited for [this season],” said Hartline last week.

Hartline went on to explain that returning three starting receivers wasn’t a guarantee that their depth chart is set in stone before the new season. When asked a follow-up question about what advice he gives players looking to earn playing time this year, Hartline explained that it all starts with being the most impressive player.

“I think right now in the offseason program that the biggest thing is, I’ll just share it with you… as of right now you should be trying to impress your peers. Impress your peers. Your peers know. Players know. By trying to impress your peers, that means everything. Being on time, if not early. How you work, how you communicate… all those things matter.”