Matt Patricia Compared to 4-Time Super Bowl Winning Coach By Former Ohio State Star
In a move that has stirred controversy, former New England Patriots defensive coordinator and ex-Detroit Lions head coach Matt Patricia was hired by Ohio State to take over as their new defensive coordinator. The hire has garnered mixed reactions, especially from Ohio State fans, due to Patricia’s less-than-successful stint as the Lions’ head coach.
Former Ohio State linebacker Bobby Carpenter took to social media to defend the move, drawing a parallel between Patricia and Kansas City Chiefs defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo. Despite struggling as a head coach with the Rams, Spagnuolo has gone on to win multiple Super Bowls as a defensive coordinator, including three with the Chiefs. Carpenter believes Patricia’s talent as a coordinator should be viewed in a similar light.
“Played for Matty P in New England…he’s as smart and measured as you’ll find. Great communicator and incredibly creative. It didn’t work in Detroit as a HC, but it happens to a lot of coordinators,” Carpenter said.
The hiring of Patricia is seen as a significant shift for the Buckeyes, who just won the 2025 national championship. As Jim Knowles heads to Penn State, Ohio State is hoping Patricia can replicate his success as a coordinator and bring stability to the defense.
The move certainly raises eyebrows, but as Carpenter pointed out, many coordinators find more success after transitioning from head coaching roles. Only time will tell if Patricia can turn his fortunes around and prove the doubters wrong.
Matt Patricia Draws Surprising Comparison to 4-Time Super Bowl Champion
