Mike Hartline Returns to Kentucky as Offensive Quality Control Coach
The University of Kentucky football program is welcoming back a familiar face. Former Wildcats quarterback Mike Hartline has been named an offensive quality control coach under head coach Mark Stoops, the school announced Thursday. Hartline, who played for Kentucky from 2006 to 2010, returns to his alma mater with a decade of coaching experience across various collegiate programs. Coaching Experience and Career Progression Since completing his playing career, Hartline has built an extensive coaching résumé, with positions at multiple Division I programs. Most recently, he served as an offensive analyst at Coastal Carolina during the 2024 season, contributing to the Chanticleers’ Myrtle Beach Bowl appearance. Before that, he was the pass game coordinator and wide receivers coach at Charlotte in 2023. In 2022, he worked as an offensive analyst and quarterbacks coach at Auburn. Hartline also gained significant experience as the offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach at Division II Ohio Dominican from 2019 to 2021. During his tenure, he developed a high-performing offense that ranked among the nation’s best in completion percentage (62.9%) and produced multiple All-Great Midwest Conference players. Additionally, he coached at Cincinnati from 2017 to 2018, serving as an offensive quality control coach and assistant quarterbacks coach. His efforts helped the Bearcats achieve an 11-2 record in 2018, culminating in a Military Bowl victory over Virginia Tech.
His coaching career began at Ohio State, where he worked with quarterbacks Cardale Jones, JT Barrett, Joe Burrow, and Dwayne Haskins from 2015 to 2016. During his two seasons in Columbus, the Buckeyes compiled a 24-3 record and earned back-to-back Fiesta Bowl appearances. Return to Kentucky Mark Stoops expressed enthusiasm to the media about Hartline’s return to the Wildcats coaching staff, stating, “It was the right time and opportunity to bring him back, and I know he will be an asset to our coaching staff.” Hartline’s decade of coaching experience, combined with his deep ties to Kentucky football, makes him a valuable addition to the program. As an offensive quality control coach, he will play a key role in supporting the development of the team’s offensive strategies and player growth. With his return to Lexington, Hartline brings both experience and a passion for the Wildcats, aiming to contribute to the continued success of Kentucky football under Stoops’ leadership.
Kentucky Football Hall of Fame announces 2025 class: Celebrating state legends
Kentucky is the only state in the country with its own football hall of fame specific to the state. Meet the 2025 class.
The Kentucky Pro Football Hall of Fame proudly celebrates its 23rd year by unveiling the Class of 2025 inductees, honoring those whose impact on professional football has left an indelible mark on the state. As the nation’s only state-specific Pro Football Hall of Fame, this esteemed institution continues to recognize and celebrate the legends of Kentucky football while supporting youth initiatives across the state.
Meet the Inductees
This year’s class features five exceptional honorees:
- Michael Bush (University of Louisville)Renowned for his time with the Oakland Raiders, Chicago Bears, and Arizona Cardinals, Michael Bush is celebrated not only for his explosive athleticism but also for his resilience. Despite setbacks, his determination and record-setting performances on the field have made him a standout figure in Kentucky’s rich football history.
- Danny Trevathan (University of Kentucky)A native of Leesburg, Florida, Danny Trevathan rose to prominence as an All-American linebacker during his collegiate career. Drafted by the Denver Broncos, he later played a crucial role in their Super Bowl 50 victory before continuing his career with the Chicago Bears. Trevathan’s tenacity and leadership exemplify the grit and determination that define Kentucky football.
