JUST IN: Oregon Ducks Coach Identified as Front-Runner for Ohio State Defensive Coordinator Job
In a surprising turn of events, sources close to Ohio State University’s football program have revealed that Oregon Ducks defensive coordinator, Tosh Lupoi, is now being viewed as the leading candidate for the vacant defensive coordinator position with the Buckeyes. Lupoi, who has been instrumental in transforming Oregon’s defense into one of the Pac-12’s most formidable units, could soon make the move to Columbus, Ohio, to join one of the nation’s elite college football programs.
The Ohio State Buckeyes are looking for a new defensive coordinator after the departure of Jim Knowles, who took a position with another powerhouse program. This shift has created significant buzz within the college football community, as Ohio State aims to maintain its reputation as a national contender and bolster its defense, which has been a focus of improvement in recent seasons.
Lupoi, who is regarded as one of the brightest defensive minds in the country, has had a diverse career that spans multiple top-tier programs. He has held coaching roles at Alabama, California, and Washington before making his way to Oregon. Under Lupoi’s guidance, the Ducks have shown substantial growth on the defensive side of the ball, including a marked improvement in stopping both the run and pass, and an ability to pressure opposing quarterbacks.
His defensive schemes emphasize versatility, and his units are known for their ability to adjust on the fly, making them difficult to predict. This style of coaching has garnered attention from several top programs, including Ohio State, who sees Lupoi as someone who could elevate their already talented roster of defensive players.
While Lupoi is highly respected for his ability to develop players, his recruiting prowess also sets him apart. He has been instrumental in securing top defensive prospects for Oregon, and his relationships with high school coaches and recruits could prove to be a major asset for Ohio State as they look to maintain a pipeline of elite talent.
Ohio State’s defensive struggles in recent years, particularly in the secondary, have led many fans and analysts to call for a fresh approach. The Buckeyes have the talent but have often been inconsistent in key moments, something Lupoi would be tasked with addressing if hired.
At this point, the deal is not yet finalized, and talks are ongoing. However, if Lupoi does accept the offer, he would be stepping into a high-pressure environment at Ohio State, where expectations for the team’s defense are sky-high.
As the situation develops, all eyes will be on both Oregon and Ohio State to see if a deal can be reached, and whether Lupoi can take the Buckeyes’ defense to new heights. His potential move represents a significant shift in the landscape of college football coaching, with major implications for both programs.
