Brian Hartline is an American football coach and former NFL player who assumed the role of head football coach at the University of South Florida in December 2025, marking the beginning of the 2026 season. Prior to taking the helm at USF, Hartline built a notable coaching résumé over nine seasons at Ohio State University, where he served in various capacities from quality control to offensive coordinator and wide receivers coach. His impact at Ohio State was significant, contributing to a dominant run that included a College Football Playoff National Championship in 2024 and multiple Big Ten Conference titles.
Hartline’s coaching reputation extends beyond play-calling and game planning to include elite recruiting and player development. He earned national recognition as a recruiter and has coached numerous wide receivers who progressed to first-round NFL Draft selections, helping Ohio State consistently field top-tier talent. A native of Canton, Ohio, Hartline played collegiate football at Ohio State and went on to enjoy a seven-year professional career in the NFL, primarily with the Miami Dolphins, before transitioning into coaching. Off the field, he and his wife Kara are parents to three children, and his leadership is often described as authentic, passionate, and player-centric—qualities he now brings to the Bulls program as it seeks to elevate its competitive standing.
