The Ohio State football team’s search for a new defensive coordinator after Jim Knowles left for Penn State was a drawn-out affair, and Ryan Day’s decision to hire Matt Patricia raised some eyebrows. But early signs suggest Patricia is making a strong impression. Players and coaching staff alike have given him positive reviews, and his approach to recruiting is a stark contrast to Knowles’. While Knowles wasn’t keen on hitting the recruiting trail, Patricia has been all in, traveling extensively to build relationships with prospects. “He is looking to build relationships with guys quickly,” the article notes, a welcome change for a program that thrives on talent acquisition.
Patricia’s recruiting efforts are a game-changer. When he was hired, there was skepticism about his involvement, given his perceived bristly personality from his NFL days. But he’s proven those doubts wrong, diving headfirst into the process. “He has been willing to hit the road to try to land the best possible players for the Ohio State Buckeyes,” the article states. “He is already much more involved with the recruiting process than Knowles was at any point.” It’s a shift that could pay dividends, especially for a program that’s always in the mix for five-star talent. The Buckeyes’ 2025 class, currently ranked No. 1 by 247Sports, includes 16 commits, with linebacker Tarvos “TJ” Alford as the latest addition. Patricia’s influence is evident, and if he can continue to lure elite recruits, Ohio State’s future looks bright.
Of course, the proof will be on the field, and the season opener against Texas will be the real test. But Patricia’s recruiting prowess is a promising start. “If he can bring in some five-star recruits, the Buckeyes will have found the perfect replacement for Knowles,” the article concludes. For now, Patricia’s doing his part off the field, and for Ohio State, that’s a win. Stay tuned, because this story’s got legs, and for the Buckeyes, it’s about building a dynasty, one recruit at a time. The 2025 season is looming, and with Patricia’s impact, Ohio State’s defensive future is looking strong.
