In the chaos of a coaching search, rumor and reality often blur. But when one of the most prominent voices in Kentucky media drops a definitive nugget about a top target, you listen.
Matt Jones of Kentucky Sports Radio confirmed on Monday that Brian Hartline, the Ohio State Offensive Coordinator and recruiting juggernaut, is not just a pipe dream. He is a very real possibility.
Why this changes everything
Until this moment, the biggest question surrounding Hartline wasn't his talent, it was his willingness. Would a guy who is comfortably making millions at a national power who is going for back-to-back titles in Columbus leave for Lexington?
Jones' report answers that question with a resounding yes.
This shifts Hartline from the "Dream Candidate" list to the "Top Target" list immediately. It means Mitch Barnhart doesn't have to sell the job; he just has to make the offer.
The Kentucky-Hartline connection Is real
This isn't just about money or a head coaching title. The Hartline family has deep roots in Lexington.
Brian’s brother, Mike Hartline, was a standout quarterback for the Wildcats from 2007-2010 and is currently on the Kentucky staff as an offensive quality control coach.
That connection matters. Brian Hartline knows the culture. He knows the challenges. And if he is telling people he would take the job, it means he sees the potential to win here something he has proven he can do at an elite level on the recruiting trail.
The recruiting king
If Hartline comes, he brings the best recruiting Rolodex in the country with him.
At Ohio State, he has signed and developed a "Who's Who" of NFL receivers: Marvin Harrison Jr., Garrett Wilson, Chris Olave, Jaxon Smith-Njigba, and Jeremiah Smith.
Imagine that level of talent acquisition coming to Kentucky. It would instantly close the gap with the Georgias and Alabamas of the world in a way Mark Stoops never could.
The ball is in Mitch Barnhart's court. The candidate is ready. The question now is: Will Kentucky pull the trigger? Micah 7:7.