Former offensive coordinator for the Ohio State Buckeyes, Chip Kelly, is set to return to college football as the new offensive coordinator for the Northwestern Wildcats in 2026. This development was reported by ESPN college football insider Pete Thamel. Kelly previously held the position of offensive coordinator with the Las Vegas Raiders in the NFL during the 2024 season but was dismissed before the season concluded.
During his time with Ohio State, Kelly was instrumental in guiding the team to a national championship, working alongside Brian Hartline as co-offensive coordinator. The Buckeyes’ offense ranked fourth in the Big Ten, averaging 429.4 yards per game that season, showcasing Kelly’s innovative approach to offensive strategies.
Following Hartline’s departure to become the head coach at USF, discussions emerged within the Buckeyes community about the potential for Kelly’s return. However, it is now confirmed that he will take on a new challenge in Evanston, Illinois, rather than returning to Ohio State.
Northwestern’s Offensive Challenges
The Wildcats faced substantial difficulties offensively in the 2024 season, ranking 12th in the Big Ten with an average of 346.1 yards per game. They also finished last in scoring, averaging just 23.4 points per game. Despite these struggles, Northwestern managed a respectable season, concluding with a 7-6 record and a bowl game victory.
With the Buckeyes scheduled to face the Wildcats sometime in 2026, the matchup promises to be a compelling narrative. It will feature Kelly, known as one of the top offensive minds in college football, squaring off against Matt Patricia, Ohio State’s defensive coordinator, who has a solid reputation for defensive strategies.
Historically, Ohio State has been dominant in its rivalry with Northwestern, winning 22 of the 23 matchups. The only victory for the Wildcats came in 2004 when they triumphed 33-27 in overtime. Since then, the last 11 encounters have been closely contested, with only one game decided by a single possession.
While Kelly’s appointment at Northwestern brings hope for improvements in their offense, analysts suggest that overcoming the talent gap with Ohio State will present a significant challenge. The Buckeyes have consistently been a powerhouse in the Big Ten, and even a strategic shift in offensive direction may not be enough for the Wildcats to become competitive against them.
As the 2026 season approaches, the storyline of Kelly facing his former team adds an intriguing layer to the competition. Fans and analysts alike will be keenly watching how this transition unfolds and whether it can lead to a more robust performance from Northwestern.
