Reports: UCLA head coach leaving for conference rival

A swirl of rumors surrounding the UCLA football program became reality on Friday, as reports surfaced that head coach Chip Kelly was leaving the Southland for the Buckeye State.

Kelly reportedly planned to accept an offer from Ohio State University to become the school’s next offensive coordinator, according to ESPN’s Pete Thamel. The stunning move to a now-conference rival coincides with what will be UCLA’s first season in the Big Ten Conference in 2024.

In a statement, UCLA announced plans to conduct a national search for its new leader.

“I want to sincerely thank Chip for his service to UCLA Football and our student-athletes across the past six seasons and wish the best to him and his wife Jill moving forward,” said athletic director Martin Jarmond.

Kelly spent six seasons with the Bruins, putting together a 35-34 record. He spent time with the Philadelphia Eagles and San Francisco 49ers of the NFL before his time in Westwood, and most famously rose to prominence as head coach of the University of Oregon for four seasons.

Rumors of Kelly’s departure heated up after UCLA’s season ended in December. He reportedly interviewed for an offensive coordinator position in the NFL before deciding to stay in the college ranks with Ohio State.

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