Following a coaching search that lasted a little over a week, Ohio athletic director Julie Cromer announced current offensive coordinator and interim head coach Brian Smith will become the newest head coach of the Ohio Football Program.
Director Cromer shared many internal and external candidates were interviewed before deciding Smith stood out.
“What made the decision easy to hire internally is we had great candidates,“ Cromer said. "We had the best candidate internally."
Smith joined the Ohio staff prior to the 2022 season as the running backs coach and passing game coordinator before being promoted to offensive coordinator before the 2024 season.
“I’m looking forward to making the university, community and the greatest fans in the MAC proud of our players and program,” Smith said.
Smith follows two legendary Ohio coaches, Tim Albin and Frank Solich, who both had incredible success in the program. Smith, who worked under Albin, is looking to continue the foundation that has been set over the last 20 years.
“It’s very much a player-centric program,” Smith said. “It’s built on love and respect of the players and staff… When the kids are able to trust each other and develop powerful relationships, they play a lot harder for each other. I truly believe that’s been the foundational basis of the program, and that’s what’s allowed for sustained success for a long time.”
Smith’s first game as head coach will come this Friday when Ohio takes on Jacksonville State in the Cure Bowl.
