Tyler Bowen, who has served as Virginia Tech’s offensive coordinator since 2022, is departing to join Ohio State as their new offensive line coach and run game coordinator. This move comes as part of a significant coaching reshuffle for the Buckeyes, following the departure of offensive line coach Justin Frye to the Arizona Cardinals and offensive coordinator Chip Kelly to the Las Vegas Raiders.
Bowen’s coaching career began at the University of Maryland in 2010, where he worked as a student assistant. Over the years, he has held various positions, including tight ends coach at Towson University, offensive line coach at Fordham University, and tight ends coach at Penn State. In 2021, he served as the tight ends coach for the Jacksonville Jaguars before taking on the role of offensive coordinator and tight ends coach at Virginia Tech in 2022.
During his tenure at Virginia Tech, Bowen initially focused on coaching tight ends before transitioning to quarterbacks. Despite high expectations, the Hokies’ offense faced challenges, including offensive line issues and injuries, which hindered their performance. Bowen’s departure adds to the offseason challenges for Virginia Tech’s head coach, Brent Pry, who recently dismissed defensive coordinator Chris Marve. Pry now faces the task of finding a new offensive coordinator, with potential internal candidates like wide receivers coach Fontel Mines or external options, possibly from the NFL.
At Ohio State, Bowen will step into the role previously held by Justin Frye, who left for the NFL. His appointment is part of head coach Ryan Day’s efforts to revamp the coaching staff following recent departures. In addition to Bowen’s hiring, Ohio State is promoting wide receivers coach Brian Hartline to offensive coordinator. It remains uncertain whether Hartline or Day will handle play-calling duties for the upcoming season.
Bowen’s move to Ohio State, a program that recently secured a national championship, represents a significant career shift. While he is stepping down from an offensive coordinator position to become an offensive line coach, the opportunity to join a high-caliber program like Ohio State offers substantial potential for professional growth. His extensive experience and recruiting success are expected to be valuable assets to the Buckeyes as they prepare for the upcoming season.
