Ohio State University has officially elevated tight ends coach Keenan Bailey to the position of co-offensive coordinator as part of a reshuffling of its football coaching staff. This promotion marks a significant shift in the team’s approach to offense, reflecting both the program’s faith in Bailey’s abilities and its broader strategy to refine and enhance offensive schemes. The decision is particularly impactful in the context of Ohio State’s longstanding commitment to developing elite football talent, both on the field and within its coaching ranks.
The Rise of Keenan Bailey
Keenan Bailey’s journey through the ranks at Ohio State has been marked by steady growth and increasing responsibility. After joining the Buckeyes as a graduate assistant in 2016, Bailey quickly earned the respect of his colleagues and players for his work ethic and coaching acumen. Initially, he worked with the offensive line and other positions before his first major role as the team’s offensive quality control coach in 2019.
Bailey’s work as a quality control coach entailed analyzing game tape, assisting with strategy planning, and providing invaluable insights to the offensive staff. His ability to assess talent, break down plays, and contribute to the overall development of offensive strategies did not go unnoticed. By 2022, Bailey had been promoted to tight ends coach, where his impact was immediately felt.
As Ohio State’s tight ends coach, Bailey oversaw a group of athletes who played crucial roles in both the passing and blocking schemes of the offense. He was responsible for developing players who not only needed to be reliable pass-catchers but also effective blockers to facilitate Ohio State’s potent running game. Under his tutelage, the Buckeyes’ tight ends were not only known for their blocking prowess but also their ability to stretch the field in the passing game.
Bailey’s tight ends, including standout players like Cade Stover, became key contributors to one of the most balanced and versatile offenses in college football. His players not only excelled on the field but also earned respect for their leadership and discipline, qualities that Bailey himself embodied in his coaching.
The Co-Offensive Coordinator Role
Bailey’s promotion to co-offensive coordinator reflects a larger trend at Ohio State, where a multi-faceted coaching approach is becoming more common. Under this new structure, Bailey will serve alongside Brian Hartline, Ohio State’s former wide receivers coach who was recently promoted to offensive coordinator. Hartline, known for his exceptional work in developing wide receivers, will focus on overseeing the passing game, while Bailey will take on more direct oversight of the tight ends and the run game. The collaboration between the two coaches is expected to foster a cohesive, dynamic offensive attack capable of exploiting defenses in a variety of ways.
While Hartline’s focus will remain primarily on the aerial attack, Bailey will have more influence over the overall offensive strategy, ensuring that the tight ends remain integral to the team’s scheme. Bailey’s promotion also signifies his growing influence in Ohio State’s football program. His ability to build rapport with players and establish an effective, balanced offensive strategy will be critical as the Buckeyes look to stay competitive in a high-stakes Big Ten Conference and on the national stage.
With Bailey now serving as co-offensive coordinator, he will work closely with Ryan Day, Ohio State’s head coach, to ensure that the team’s offensive philosophies are executed effectively. This is especially important for a program like Ohio State’s, which has a legacy of elite offensive play. The coaching staff’s ability to evolve with the times—by incorporating more versatile players into the mix—will be crucial as the Buckeyes look to maintain their dominance on offense.
Impact on Ohio State’s Offense
The Buckeyes have always been known for their explosive offenses, and with Bailey’s promotion, that trend is expected to continue and evolve. Under his leadership, Ohio State’s offensive identity will likely become even more flexible and unpredictable. Bailey’s expertise in working with tight ends and his familiarity with a variety of offensive systems make him uniquely equipped to handle the dual demands of coordinating the offense and maintaining the high standards of Ohio State football.
Bailey’s promotion is also part of an overall effort to bolster Ohio State’s offensive line play, an area that will now fall under the guidance of new offensive line coach, Tyler Bowen. Bowen, who arrived from the Jacksonville Jaguars in 2025, brings a wealth of NFL experience to the Buckeyes’ staff. As part of his role, Bowen will help improve the run-blocking schemes, which directly impacts the effectiveness of tight ends in the blocking game.
Ohio State has traditionally relied on a powerful running game, and the tight end position has been pivotal in the success of that scheme. With Bailey now in charge of the offensive strategy, the integration of tight ends in both blocking and receiving roles will continue to evolve. Expect to see more two-tight-end sets, which can put immense pressure on opposing defenses, especially in short-yardage situations. Bailey’s ability to adjust the team’s tactics to incorporate the best available talent will ensure that the Buckeyes remain one of the most versatile and balanced offenses in college football.
In addition to his technical knowledge and player development skills, Bailey has a unique understanding of the dynamics within the Ohio State locker room. His connection with players is often cited as one of his greatest strengths, and that will be vital as he takes on more responsibility within the coaching staff. This promotion positions Bailey to not only help lead the team but also develop future NFL talent, a major factor in Ohio State’s ability to recruit top-tier prospects.
A Strong Recruiting Presence
Bailey’s new position also places him at the center of Ohio State’s recruiting efforts, especially when it comes to identifying and securing top talent at the tight end position. Ohio State has historically attracted high-level recruits, and with Bailey’s knowledge and experience, the Buckeyes will likely continue to be a force in the recruiting landscape.
Tight ends have become an increasingly important position in modern football, and Bailey is well-positioned to continue the program’s tradition of developing elite players at this position. With the evolution of offensive schemes across college football, having a coach who can not only teach but also relate to young players will be essential in securing the next generation of top tight end talent.
Bailey’s success in recruiting will be critical as Ohio State looks to build on its recent successes and make a run at the College Football Playoff. The new co-offensive coordinator is expected to play a significant role in identifying emerging talent, securing commitments from the top recruits, and developing them into standouts on the field.
Adjusting to Changing Offensive Trends
Football, particularly at the collegiate level, is an ever-evolving game, and as the landscape of offensive football continues to change, so too must the strategies employed by top-tier programs like Ohio State. Bailey’s ability to adapt to these changes and implement new, innovative offensive techniques will be a key part of the program’s ongoing success.
The rise of spread offenses and pass-heavy schemes in college football has altered the way teams approach offense, but tight ends remain an essential component in creating balance and unpredictability. The role of the tight end has expanded, and Bailey has been at the forefront of that shift, developing players who are capable of blocking in the run game while also being legitimate threats in the passing game.
Bailey’s promotion as co-offensive coordinator is a reflection of Ohio State’s commitment to staying on the cutting edge of football strategy. By placing a coach with his experience and understanding of tight ends in a more prominent role, Ohio State is signaling that it intends to maintain its status as one of the most innovative and dangerous offenses in the nation.
Looking Ahead
As Ohio State prepares for the 2025 season, the promotion of Keenan Bailey to co-offensive coordinator will have a lasting impact on the program. His knowledge of the game, combined with his unique ability to develop tight ends, positions him to play a significant role in the Buckeyes’ pursuit of another Big Ten championship and College Football Playoff appearance. Bailey’s promotion is a testament to the faith that Ohio State’s coaching staff, players, and administrators have in his ability to lead and innovate.
With the combination of Bailey’s experience, the talent of Ohio State’s current roster, and the potential impact of new staff members like Tyler Bowen, the Buckeyes appear poised for another successful campaign. Bailey’s promotion is an exciting chapter in his coaching career and a reflection of Ohio State’s long-term vision for maintaining its football program’s elite status.
In conclusion, Keenan Bailey’s elevation to co-offensive coordinator represents not only a significant milestone in his career but also an important shift in Ohio State’s offensive philosophy. As the Buckeyes aim to maintain their elite status in college football, Bailey’s leadership, vision, and commitment to excellence will play a key role in shaping the team’s future success. This promotion is a win not only for Bailey but also for the entire Ohio State football program, as they look to build upon their past achievements and continue competing at the highest level.