Behind the Steel Curtain
On the same day the Pittsburgh Steelers named Greenfield’s own Mike McCarthy as their fourth head coach in 57 years, their offensive coordinator found a new gig. In college.
Longtime NFL coach Arthur Smith is heading to Columbus to be the next offensive coordinator at Ohio State, according to Ian Rapoport of NFL Network.
It’s nothing short of a stunning move for the former Falcons head coach to go back to college. Smith interviewed with the LA Chargers for their offensive coordinator position, and the Titans looked into Smith for their openings.
The Chargers landed former Dolphins coach Mike McDaniel and the Titans hired Robert Saleh as head coach, but were reportedly interested in bringing Smith back as their OC.
Smith was the offensive coordinator in Tennessee from 2019-20 before being named the Falcons head coach in 2021.
North Carolina was interested in hiring Smith as its head coach before hiring Bill Belichick.
He spent two seasons in Pittsburgh on Mike Tomlin’s staff. The Steelers offense ranked 25th in total yards (316.9), 26th in rushing (103.3), and 15th in both points (23.4) and third-down percentage (40%).
Ohio State offensive coordinator Brian Hartline left the Buckeyes to become the head coach at USF.
Smith will coach one of the most talented offenses in college football, led by Heisman finalist quarterback Julian Sayin and star wide receiver Jeremiah Smith.
The Steelers will have a new head coach, offensive coordinator, and defensive coordinator in the same season for the first time this century.
