UCLA Football: How A Beatles Legend Inspired Chip Kelly's Move To Ohio State

'Imagine' that.

A couple of the reasons why Chip Kelly left UCLA for Ohio State: Ryan Day and John Lennon. 

In his first press conference at Ohio State as the Buckeyes' new offensive coordinator, Kelly was naturally asked about his decision to leave UCLA. Kelly replied that one of the Beatles, John Lennon, inspired his move.

The late Lennon is not just one of the most well-known singer/songwriters in history but was an activist and innovative thinker who has left a lasting impact on many. In particular, a story from Lennon's childhood resonated with Kelly as he left for the Buckeyes.

"I just thought at the time that you know, there’s a story about John Lennon when he was a little kid. He had an assignment of what do you want to be when you grow up? And he said, I want to be happy. His teacher said, I don’t think you understand the assignment. And his mom said, I don’t think you understand life." 

— Chip Kelly,

via Ohio State football on Youtube

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For Kelly, achieving this happiness involved working with Ryan Day at Ohio State and returning to work as an offensive coordinator. While many rumors indicated that Kelly would be taking on an NFL OC position, he instead ended up at a school that is now a Big Ten conference rival for UCLA.

"So I just wanted to be happy, and I’m really happy coaching positions. Really happy to be at this place. You know, it would have taken a special place for me to leave UCLA because I love those players and I love that coaching staff but to be here with Ryan, who I have a great relationship ... I think a lot of things just fell into place."

— Chip Kelly,

via Ohio State football on Youtube

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Now, Kelly is 'starting over' at Ohio State after his tenure with UCLA came to a tumultuous end. Both Kelly and the Bruins begin a new era, as DeShaun Foster has taken over the head coaching position and Kelly transitions to the Buckeyes.