The Ohio State Buckeyes claimed the 2025 National Championship in college football, but since their Jan. 20 victory, they’ve faced some challenges. Offensive coordinator Chip Kelly has left for the NFL to take the Las Vegas Raiders’ OC role, and defensive coordinator Jim Knowles has moved to Penn State. One name that’s rapidly circulating as a top candidate to replace Kelly is Shannon Dawson, the offensive coordinator for the Miami Hurricanes. On Monday, On3Sports highlighted Dawson as one of the front-runners for the Buckeyes’ OC position.
Dawson just wrapped up his second season with Miami and his second year at the Power 4 level. Before this, he coached at Houston, Southern Mississippi, West Virginia, and Wingate, his alma mater. As a former quarterback, Dawson has built a reputation for developing quarterbacks, and this season was a testament to his skills. Under his guidance, Hurricanes QB Cam Ward threw for 4,313 yards, completed over two-thirds of his passes, and led the nation with 39 passing touchdowns. Miami finished the year 10-3 and boasted one of the most potent offenses in college football. Dawson played a crucial role in Ward’s success, as he convinced the former Washington State QB—who had declared for the NFL Draft—to join Miami for his final college season. Now, Ward is considered a potential No. 1 overall pick in the draft.
While losing key assistants is part of the game when your program is successful, Kelly’s NFL move has far-reaching implications beyond just the Buckeyes. If Dawson doesn’t accept the Ohio State offer, another high-profile coach is likely to step in. With Ohio State’s powerful program and significant appeal, they’re poised to make a major impact with this hire.
