Matt Patricia, the former head coach of the Detroit Lions, is making a return to coaching, this time at the collegiate level. Reports indicate that Patricia is set to become the new defensive coordinator at Ohio State following the departure of Jim Knowles, who left for Penn State.
ESPN’s Pete Thamel broke the news, stating that Ohio State is in the final stages of securing Patricia for the role. Patricia has a wealth of NFL experience, having previously served as the head coach of the Lions and spending years as the defensive coordinator for the New England Patriots.
Patricia took charge of the Lions in 2018, finishing with a 6-10 record in his first season. However, things took a turn for the worse, as the team struggled to a 3-12-1 record in 2019. His tenure ended in 2020 after an underwhelming 4-7 start, leading to his dismissal alongside general manager Bob Quinn.
Following his time in Detroit, Patricia returned to the Patriots as a senior football advisor and offensive line coach before joining the Philadelphia Eagles in 2023 as a senior defensive assistant. Unfortunately, the Eagles’ defense was one of the league’s worst during his stint.
Despite his struggles as a head coach, Patricia originally made a name for himself with the Patriots, where he contributed to three Super Bowl victories. His tenure as New England’s defensive coordinator from 2012 to 2017 saw the team reach the Super Bowl three times, winning twice. Additionally, he was part of the coaching staff for the Patriots’ 2004 championship as an assistant offensive line coach.
Although his head coaching stint was largely unsuccessful, Patricia has had a solid career as an assistant coach. His new role at Ohio State comes with high expectations, as he follows Knowles, who was instrumental in elevating the Buckeyes’ defense over the past three seasons.
