Ohio State University is finalizing an agreement to appoint Matt Patricia as its new defensive coordinator, following the departure of Jim Knowles to Penn State. citeturn0search2

 

Patricia, 50, brings a wealth of experience from both collegiate and professional football. An alumnus of Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI), he played as a center and guard from 1992 to 1995 and began his coaching career there as a graduate assistant in 1996. He later held positions at Amherst College and Syracuse University before joining the New England Patriots in 2004. During his tenure with the Patriots, Patricia served in various roles, including defensive coordinator from 2012 to 2017, contributing to three Super Bowl victories. citeturn0search17

 

In 2018, Patricia became the head coach of the Detroit Lions, where he compiled a 13-29-1 record over nearly three seasons. After his stint with the Lions, he returned to the Patriots in 2021 as a senior football advisor and offensive line coach. In 2023, he joined the Philadelphia Eagles as a senior defensive assistant, taking over defensive play-calling duties late in the season. citeturn0search17

 

At Ohio State, Patricia will be tasked with maintaining and enhancing a defense that was instrumental in securing the national championship last season. Under Jim Knowles, the Buckeyes’ defense was ranked first nationally, allowing an average of 251.1 yards and 12.2 points per game. The team concluded the season with a 14-2 record, culminating in a 34-23 victory over Notre Dame in the title game. citeturn0news10

 

Head coach Ryan Day, who agreed in principle last year to a seven-year contract valued at $12.5 million per year, is bringing Patricia on board to fill the void left by Knowles’ departure. citeturn0search4

 

Patricia’s extensive NFL experience and previous success as a defensive coordinator are expected to be valuable assets as he transitions to leading the Buckeyes’ defense. His appointment reflects Ohio State’s commitment to sustaining its defensive prowess and competitive edge in collegiate football.

 

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