Stan Drayton
Former Ohio State Assistant Stan Drayton Joins Penn State as Running Backs Coach
Stan Drayton may not be a household name in Ohio State Buckeyes circles anymore, but his impact on the program—particularly in the development of Ezekiel Elliott—should not be forgotten. After serving as Ohio State’s running backs coach from 2012 to 2014, Drayton helped mold Elliott into a star, laying the foundation for his eventual first-round NFL selection.
In recent years, Drayton has been leading his own program as the head coach of the Temple Owls. However, after being dismissed from that role this offseason, he is returning to a familiar position—this time with a program that won’t sit well with Buckeyes fans.
According to a report from Pete Nakos of On3 Sports, Drayton has been hired by the Penn State Nittany Lions as their new running backs coach. This move marks a significant change in his career trajectory, as he shifts from head coaching responsibilities back to a position coach role. However, it could serve as a reset for Drayton, giving him an opportunity to reestablish himself within a major Power Five program.
Penn State Adding More Buckeyes Ties
Drayton isn’t the only former Ohio State coach to find a new home in Happy Valley this offseason. Penn State also lured away Jim Knowles, who previously served as Ohio State’s defensive coordinator. Knowles will assume the same role with the Nittany Lions, adding another wrinkle to an already intense Big Ten rivalry.
With these coaching additions, Penn State’s sideline is starting to take on a Buckeyes flavor. While Ohio State fans won’t be thrilled to see familiar faces in blue and white, it does set up an intriguing storyline when the two programs meet on November 1 during the 2025 college football season.
For Buckeyes faithful, a victory over Penn State would always be sweet—but this year, it could feel even more satisfying. Beating Knowles and seeing Drayton on the losing side would be an added bonus.
A Fresh Start for Drayton
Despite the rivalry implications, Drayton’s hiring is a positive step for his career. His track record as a running backs coach is well-respected, and Penn State’s backfield should benefit from his expertise. The move might not have been his first choice following his time as a head coach, but a return to the Big Ten gives him a platform to prove himself once again.
Congratulations to Drayton on his new role—though Buckeyes fans will certainly be hoping for a tough outing when Ohio State and Penn State clash this fall.
