With Ohio State football at a critical crossroads, a fresh face has emerged—one that could redefine the Buckeyes’ rushing attack when they need…

A Game-Changing Addition: The Mysterious New Assistant Poised to Revive Ohio State’s Ground Game

With Ohio State football at a critical crossroads, a fresh face has emerged—one that could redefine the Buckeyes’ rushing attack when they need it most. As the team navigates a transitional phase, whispers of a new assistant’s arrival have sent shockwaves through the program. Could this be the missing piece to restore dominance on the ground? What changes will unfold under this new leadership? One thing is certain: Ohio State’s backfield is on the verge of transformation, and the answers will soon be revealed.

Ohio State’s Bold Move: Can Tyler Bowen Reignite the Buckeyes’ Ground Game?

Just three months ago, running back Bhayshul Tuten was closing the chapter on his Virginia Tech career. Every day, as he walked into the Hokies’ football facility, a familiar sight greeted him—a parked truck belonging to none other than Tyler Bowen, VT’s offensive coordinator. That small but telling detail stuck with Tuten. It wasn’t just a vehicle; it was a symbol of Bowen’s relentless dedication.

Now, Ohio State has made a pivotal move, bringing Bowen aboard as their new offensive line coach and run game coordinator. And if Tuten’s words are any indication, the Buckeyes have landed a coach whose impact will be immediate and transformative.

“He’s the kind of guy who’s always there—first in, last out,” Tuten shared at the NFL Scouting Combine. “He works tirelessly to put his players in the best position to succeed.”

Tuten knows this firsthand. After transferring from North Carolina A&T, he thrived under Bowen’s guidance at Virginia Tech, racking up 2,022 rushing yards and 25 touchdowns. His rise from an FCS player to a projected fifth-round NFL Draft pick is a testament to Bowen’s ability to develop talent and scheme effectively against defenses.

Ohio State’s rushing attack is in a state of flux. With star running backs Quinshon Judkins and TreVeyon Henderson departing for the NFL—taking 2,076 rushing yards with them—the Buckeyes face a daunting challenge. The coaching staff has also been shaken up. Offensive line coach and run game coordinator Justin Frye left for the Arizona Cardinals after helping lead OSU to a national title. Then, in a stunning twist, offensive mastermind Chip Kelly bolted for the Las Vegas Raiders.

With head coach Ryan Day and newly promoted offensive coordinator Brian Hartline both known for their passing-game expertise, Ohio State needed a run-focused hire to restore balance. Enter Bowen—a coach with a proven ability to maximize rushing potential.

According to Tuten, the Buckeyes didn’t just find a capable coach; they landed a game-changer.

“He’s passionate about the team he’s coaching for,” Tuten said. “Ohio State is getting a great coach—someone who will bring out the best in them.”

With so much uncertainty surrounding the Buckeyes’ ground game, Bowen’s arrival couldn’t come at a better time. Now, the question remains: Can he turn Ohio State’s rushing attack into a force once again? The answer will unfold soon enough.