**Chip Kelly Emerges as Possible Candidate for Ohio State OC Role**
Key Takeaways:
- Chip Kelly is being considered for the offensive coordinator position at Ohio State
- The UCLA head coach has a $74 million contract, but his future in Westwood is uncertain
- Ohio State recently lost its OC to Boston College, sparking a high-profile vacancy
Columbus, OH — Chip Kelly is trending after reports surfaced within the past 48 hours that the current UCLA head coach is being considered for the offensive coordinator role at **Ohio State University**, following the departure of **Bill O’Brien** to **Boston College**.
Kelly Linked to Ohio State Staff Vacancy
Multiple credible sources, including reports from **ESPN** and **The Athletic**, indicate that **Ohio State head coach Ryan Day** is actively pursuing **Chip Kelly** to fill the offensive coordinator position. The vacancy emerged after Day’s newly hired OC, **Bill O’Brien**, accepted the head coaching role at Boston College on **February 9, 2024**, just weeks after taking the job in Columbus.
Kelly, who has coached at **UCLA since 2018**, is known for his offensive acumen and past success at **Oregon**, where he led the Ducks to a national title game appearance in 2010. While he currently earns from a contract worth up to **$74 million**, insiders suggest that his position at UCLA could be vulnerable due to the Bruins’ inconsistent performance under his leadership.
Kelly’s Ties to Ryan Day and Offensive Philosophy
Ryan Day and Chip Kelly share a close professional relationship, having coached together at **New Hampshire**. Day has often cited Kelly’s uptempo offensive strategy as an influence on his own system. This longstanding connection, combined with recent staff shake-ups, is fueling speculation that Kelly could be looking to exit UCLA for a new opportunity at a national contender like Ohio State.
Moreover, recent disappointments for UCLA — including a tepid **2023 season** with a 7–5 record — have triggered discussions around potential staff changes in Westwood. The pressure is amplified by the school’s upcoming entry into the **Big Ten Conference** in 2024, putting added emphasis on program performance.
What a Potential Move Means for Both Programs
If Kelly joins Ohio State’s coaching staff, he would immediately enhance the Buckeyes’ play-calling and scheme development. It would also be seen as a proactive move by Day to stabilize a highly scrutinized offense following a turbulent 2023 season and a surprising early playoff exit.
For UCLA, a Kelly departure could spark a wide-ranging coaching search and trigger additional movement within college football’s head coaching carousel. It may also alter recruiting dynamics, particularly as the Bruins gear up for Big Ten competition. Industry sources caution that a formal decision may come within the next **7–10 days** as discussions evolve.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why is chip kelly trending?
A: He is being floated as a serious candidate for the offensive coordinator job at Ohio State after Bill O’Brien left for Boston College.
Q: What happens next?
A: A decision could come within the next week as Ohio State finalizes staff moves ahead of spring practices.
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