Ohio State Defensive Coordinator Hot Board: Chris Ash Emerges as Leading Candidate to Succeed Jim Knowles…

C. Knowles, who helped transform Ohio State’s defense during his tenure, is set to leave a significant gap, one that the university aims to fill quickly. As rumors swirl and the coaching search intensifies, former Buckeye coach Chris Ash has emerged as a top candidate to take the reins. Here’s a look at the potential candidates and what the Buckeyes could be looking for in their next defensive leader.

The Search for a Replacement

Jim Knowles’ tenure at Ohio State was marked by significant improvements in defensive play, especially against the pass. However, after a few seasons, the defensive scheme didn’t quite reach the level of consistency that Ohio State fans were hoping for, leading to Knowles’ departure. With the defense needing to evolve once again, the search for a new defensive coordinator has become one of the most critical decisions for head coach Ryan Day.

Ohio State needs a defensive coordinator who can:

• Maintain the program’s elite status in recruiting
• Adapt to modern offensive trends and new technologies
• Develop young players into stars
• Keep pace with Big Ten powerhouses like Michigan and Penn State

Chris Ash: A Familiar Face

Chris Ash, who served as Ohio State’s co-defensive coordinator and safeties coach from 2014-2015, has seen his stock rise in coaching circles. Ash, who went on to become the head coach at Rutgers and later held defensive coordinator roles at Arkansas and other programs, has a deep understanding of Ohio State’s culture, recruiting, and defensive philosophy. This familiarity has made him a strong contender to return to Columbus.

Why Chris Ash Makes Sense

• Experience with Ohio State’s Defense: Ash knows what it takes to succeed in the Big Ten and how to operate within the Ohio State system. He was a key part of the defense that helped the Buckeyes win a national championship in 2014.
• Proven Track Record: Ash has honed his craft at various programs since leaving Ohio State. His stint as the defensive coordinator at Arkansas, despite the team’s overall struggles, showed his ability to develop strong, competitive defensive units. His experience has added to his reputation as a solid tactician.
• Familiarity with Recruiting: Recruiting is crucial to Ohio State’s success, and Ash has long been recognized as an effective recruiter. His connections in Ohio and the Midwest could be vital in maintaining the Buckeyes’ defensive pipeline.
• Ability to Adapt: Ash has evolved his defensive approach over the years, adapting to the latest trends in college football. His experience with both a 4-3 and 3-4 defensive scheme could allow him to quickly integrate a system that suits Ohio State’s current roster.

Other Potential Candidates

While Ash remains the front-runner, Ohio State’s administration and coaching staff are likely to explore other options to ensure they make the best hire possible. Below are a few names that could be under consideration:

1. Kerry Coombs (Former Ohio State DB Coach & DC)

Coombs has deep ties to Ohio State, having served as the Buckeyes’ defensive coordinator in 2020 and 2021. While his tenure wasn’t as successful as many hoped, he knows the program intimately and has long been a strong recruiter, especially in Ohio. If the Buckeyes are looking for someone who understands the culture and can quickly transition back into the role, Coombs could be an intriguing option.

2. Taver Johnson (Current Western Kentucky Defensive Coordinator)

Taver Johnson, a former Ohio State assistant who worked as the defensive backs coach, has spent years building a reputation as a disciplined, innovative coach. After stints at various programs, including Purdue and Arkansas, Johnson has developed a solid defensive pedigree. His return to Ohio State could inject some fresh ideas while keeping continuity within the defensive program.

3. Marcus Freeman (Notre Dame Head Coach)

Although Freeman is currently the head coach at Notre Dame, his connection to Ohio State is undeniable. Freeman was a star linebacker for the Buckeyes and later served as their linebackers coach. If Ohio State can pull him away from Notre Dame, Freeman would bring exceptional leadership and recruiting ability to the defensive side of the ball.

4. Will Muschamp (Former South Carolina Head Coach)

Muschamp has been a proven defensive mind in college football for years, with successful stints at Florida, South Carolina, and Auburn. Known for his aggressive defensive schemes and fiery personality, Muschamp could bring a new edge to Ohio State’s defense. Though he is currently not in a coaching role, Muschamp’s name has frequently come up in coaching searches, and a return to a defensive coordinator role could be a good fit for both him and the Buckeyes.

What Ohio State Needs in a Defensive Coordinator

With a roster full of talent on both sides of the ball, Ohio State’s next defensive coordinator will need to:

• Develop a More Consistent Defense: While Ohio State has had standout individual defensive players, the defense as a whole has been inconsistent in recent years. The new coordinator will need to shore up the defensive line, secondary, and overall game planning to ensure fewer big plays and more impactful stops in key moments.
• Adapt to Modern Offenses: The Big Ten, as well as non-conference opponents, have evolved to become more pass-heavy, and Ohio State needs a coordinator who can adapt to these changing trends. Whether it’s implementing a more aggressive pass rush or scheming against spread offenses, the coordinator will need to stay ahead of the curve.
• Continue Elite Recruiting: Ohio State’s defense has always been fueled by top-tier talent, and recruiting will be key in maintaining that. The next defensive coordinator will need to continue the program’s success in signing top defensive recruits and developing them into elite players.

Conclusion

As Ohio State embarks on its search for a new defensive coordinator, Chris Ash stands as the leading candidate due to his familiarity with the program and his overall experience. However, the Buckeyes are likely to explore multiple options as they work to find a coach who can maintain their defensive excellence while adapting to the evolving landscape of college football. With the right hire, Ohio State can remain a powerhouse on both sides of the ball for years to come.