COLUMBUS, Ohio – In a surprising turn of events, former University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) head coach Chip Kelly has joined the Ohio State University football program as an offensive analyst. The move marks Kelly’s return to the Buckeyes, where he served as offensive coordinator from 2006 to 2008.
In an exclusive interview with ESPN, Kelly explained his decision to leave UCLA and join Ohio State. “It’s what I wanted to do,” Kelly said. “This is the program I built. This is the program I love.”
Kelly emphasized his desire to reunite with Ohio State head coach Ryan Day, whom he previously worked with during the Buckeyes’ 2017 National Championship season. “I couldn’t be more excited to be back here with Ryan,” Kelly said. “He’s one of the best coaches in the country, and I believe in what he’s doing here at Ohio State.”
Ohio State athletic director Gene Smith expressed his delight at Kelly’s return. “We are thrilled to welcome Chip back to Ohio State,” Smith said. “He is a proven winner and one of the most successful offensive coaches in the country. His experience and knowledge will be invaluable to our program.”
Kelly has had a successful coaching career, both at the college and professional levels. After serving as offensive coordinator at Ohio State, he became the head coach at the University of Oregon, where he led the Ducks to a 46-7 record and four Pac-12 Championships. He then spent two seasons as the head coach of the Philadelphia Eagles in the NFL before joining UCLA in 2018.
The addition of Kelly to the Ohio State staff is expected to bolster the Buckeyes’ already potent offense. With quarterback C.J. Stroud returning and a wealth of talent at the skill positions, the Buckeyes are poised for another successful season in 2023.
Kelly is confident in the Buckeyes’ potential. “I think we have a chance to be really special,” Kelly said. “We have a lot of talented players, and I’m excited to see what we can achieve together.”
