Ohio State DC Matt Patricia linked to NFL defensive coordinator opening

Nov 22, 2025; Columbus, Ohio, USA; Ohio State Buckeyes defensive coordinator Matt Patricia puts on his headset before the game against the Rutgers Scarlet Knights at Ohio Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joseph Maiorana-Imagn Images | Joseph Maiorana-Imagn ImagesThe Ohio State football team improved on defense this year from the best defense in the country last season. Matt Patricia came in and didn't just keep the standard set by Jim Knowles; he elevated it. It was clear that Ryan Day did a fantastic job with this hiring.

Unfortunately, it wasn't good enough for the Ohio State Buckeyes to beat Miami in the Cotton Bowl. That was mostly an offensive issue, but it was still a disappointing loss.…