What's Happening?
Arthur Smith, the offensive coordinator for the Pittsburgh Steelers, is set to leave the NFL to take on the same role at Ohio State University. This move comes as a surprise, as Smith was expected to continue
in the professional ranks. During his tenure with the Steelers, Smith's offense ranked 15th in points per game and 25th in yards. His departure leaves a gap in the Steelers' coaching staff, especially with Mike McCarthy recently agreeing to become the team's head coach. Smith's previous experience includes serving as the offensive coordinator for the Tennessee Titans and a head coach stint with the Atlanta Falcons. At Ohio State, Smith will replace Brian Hartline, who has moved on to become the head coach at South Florida.
Why It's Important?
Smith's transition from the NFL to a prominent college football program like Ohio State highlights the fluidity and interconnectedness of coaching careers between professional and collegiate levels. This move could impact both the Steelers and Ohio State significantly. For the Steelers, finding a replacement for Smith is crucial to maintaining offensive stability, especially with a new head coach in place. For Ohio State, Smith's NFL experience could enhance their offensive strategies, potentially giving them an edge in college football. This shift also underscores the competitive nature of coaching positions, where opportunities in college football can be as appealing as those in the NFL.
What's Next?
The Steelers will need to act quickly to fill the offensive coordinator position to ensure a smooth transition for the new head coach, Mike McCarthy. Potential candidates may include internal promotions or external hires from other NFL teams or college programs. Meanwhile, at Ohio State, Smith will begin integrating into the team, working with head coach Ryan Day to prepare for the upcoming season. His NFL experience is expected to bring new insights and strategies to the Buckeyes' offense.
