UCLA coach Chip Kelly is anticipated to take on the role of offensive coordinator at Ohio State on Friday, according to sources within the program. Buckeyes coach Ryan Day, who played for Kelly at UNH and coached with him on three separate occasions, is set to reunite with his former mentor.
This development follows Ohio State’s offensive coordinator, Bill O’Brien, becoming the primary target for the Boston College coaching vacancy, as revealed by a source familiar with the discussions. O’Brien assumed the OC position at Ohio State in January.
Returning to the college ranks, Kelly has led UCLA to three consecutive winning seasons, with a record of 35-34 over six years. Buckeyes coach Day expressed enthusiasm about Kelly’s appointment, citing his extensive coaching experience at Oregon, UCLA, and in the NFL.
During Kelly’s coaching tenure with the Philadelphia Eagles and San Francisco 49ers, Day served as the quarterback coach. Now, seven years later, Day brings his mentor onto his coaching staff at Ohio State.
Despite signing a two-year extension with UCLA after a 9-4 season in 2022, Kelly has decided to depart. UCLA athletic director Martin Jarmond acknowledged Kelly’s decision and expressed gratitude for his service. A national search for UCLA’s next head coach is already underway.
Day and Kelly share a longstanding relationship, originating from their shared hometown in Manchester, N.H. Day was Kelly’s quarterback at UNH, and their bond extended into coaching, both in college and the NFL.
Kelly’s departure from UCLA is not unexpected, given the program’s challenges in competing on the NIL front and financial constraints. The move to Ohio State allows Kelly to join a program with greater resources for recruiting.
In Columbus, Kelly is expected to bring valuable experience and play-calling expertise. Having previously called plays for a top-five total offense and scoring team at Oregon, he led UCLA to a top-15 scoring offense and a fourth-place ranking in total offense in 2022.
Despite the loss of O’Brien, Day acted swiftly to fill the offensive coordinator position with someone he trusts and who aligns with his coaching philosophy. Kelly’s addition strengthens Ohio State’s coaching staff as they prepare for spring football.
Kelly’s move to Ohio State reflects UCLA’s challenging position, marked by financial constraints, uncertain support for football’s NIL, and the need for a coaching change. UCLA’s athletic department has faced financial deficits, making it imperative for the program to secure the right leader for the transition to the Big Ten Conference. The move also highlights the need for UCLA to make a strategic and budget-conscious coaching hire, targeting coaches from the Big 12 conference who may be enticed by the prospect of coaching in talent-rich Los Angeles at a reasonable cost.