Ohio State head coach Ryan Day is continuing his strategy of pulling talent from the NFL to bolster his staff. Fresh from winning a national championship in 2024, Day is expected to bring former Miami Dolphins defensive coordinator Josh Boyer on board. Boyer, a seasoned NFL coach with over a decade of experience under Bill Belichick in New England, brings both a championship pedigree and a wealth of defensive expertise.
Boyer Reunites with Patricia to Bring NFL Championship Experience to Ohio State
Boyer began his NFL journey with the New England Patriots in 2006, working his way up from defensive assistant to cornerbacks coach and contributing to three Super Bowl victories. His tenure in New England lasted until 2018 before he transitioned to the Dolphins, where he served as defensive coordinator from 2019 to 2022. Known for his disciplined, detail-oriented approach, Boyer has developed a reputation for maximizing defensive talent.
Josh Boyer (NFL)This move reunites Boyer with Ohio State’s defensive coordinator Matt Patricia, a fellow Patriots veteran. Patricia’s NFL career closely paralleled Boyer’s, as he coached linebackers and safeties in New England before taking on the role of co-defensive coordinator and later head coach of the Detroit Lions. Both coaches share a similar football philosophy forged during their time with Belichick, making their collaboration in Columbus a natural fit.
NFL-Trained Duo Aims to Sustain Buckeyes’ Defensive Dominance into 2025 Season
Under Patricia’s leadership in 2024, Ohio State’s defense ranked first in the nation. Patricia has expressed his commitment to retaining much of the existing system while integrating new concepts. He describes his style as more conceptual and big-picture, with an emphasis on putting players in optimal roles. Boyer’s addition will support this approach, providing another experienced perspective to refine and evolve the scheme.
With Patricia and Boyer at the helm of the Buckeyes’ defense, Ohio State gains two coaches steeped in the methods of one of the NFL’s greatest dynasties. Their shared background, combined with Ohio State’s existing talent, creates the potential for another dominant season. As the Buckeyes prepare for the 2025 campaign, their defense looks set to remain one of the most formidable units in college football.
