Ohio State Hires Arthur Smith as Offensive Coordinator

Smith brings extensive NFL experience to Buckeyes' offense

Jan. 31, 2026 at 7:47pm

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Ohio State has hired Arthur Smith as their new offensive coordinator, marking the second consecutive year that head coach Ryan Day has brought in a coordinator with significant NFL experience to lead the Buckeyes' offense.

Why it matters

Ohio State's offense has been one of the most prolific in college football in recent years, and the hiring of Smith signals that Day is looking to maintain that high level of production by bringing in a coordinator with a proven track record of success at the professional level.

The details

Smith, who previously served as the offensive coordinator for the Atlanta Falcons, will be tasked with continuing to develop Ohio State's passing attack and finding ways to maximize the talent of the Buckeyes' skill position players.

  • Ohio State announced the hiring of Arthur Smith as offensive coordinator on February 1, 2026.

The players

Arthur Smith

An experienced NFL offensive coordinator who previously held the same role with the Atlanta Falcons.

Ryan Day

The head coach of the Ohio State Buckeyes football team, who has now hired two offensive coordinators with extensive NFL experience in consecutive years.

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What they’re saying

“Arthur Smith's track record of success at the NFL level made him an ideal candidate to lead our offense and continue building on the momentum we've established in recent years.”

— Ryan Day, Head Coach, Ohio State Buckeyes (bucksinsider.com)

What’s next

Smith will begin working with the Ohio State offense immediately as the team prepares for the upcoming 2026 season.

The takeaway

Ohio State's decision to hire an offensive coordinator with extensive NFL experience signals their commitment to maintaining their status as one of the top offenses in college football, as they look to build on their recent success and compete for a national championship.