Feature image from Eleven Warriors

Who Is He?

Former OSU WR and WR with the Dolphins and Browns Brian Hartline is currently the WR coach / passing game coordinator at his alma mater. Hartline is most famous for his time in Columbus, where he was an absolute pain in the ass. His numbers weren’t that flashy, but he was really good in the return game, and had a knack for scoring. Immediately after washing out of the NFL, Hartline went into coaching at Ohio State, moving from quality control assistant, to wide receivers coach, to passing game coordinator. OSU has been very good in his time as WR coach, and Hartline, somewhat controversially, is being considered by some a viable candidate to replace departing OC Kevin Wilson (remember him?)

Why would he be successful at Purdue?

Young, energetic, NFL pedigree, experience at a big-time program in OSU…he has some pieces. He’s been a phenomenal recruiter at OSU, pulling in one of the top-2 receivers in three of his last four years. His players seem to love him, and his elevation to the passing game coordinator position speaks highly of his HC’s confidence in him as well.

Why could he flop at Purdue?

This is so early in his career, that’s a lot to ask of a young coach. He needs to take on an OC role for a while longer I think before he’ll be considered a serious candidate.

Would he come to Purdue?

Nah. He’s got a clear career trajectory at OSU. Would hate to have him come to Purdue just to have one foot out the door, biding his time before he’s able to return to his alma mater where he’s so beloved.