The New England Patriots may already have their replacement for outgoing defensive coordinator Matt Patricia all lined up. According to Zach Barnett of FootballScoop.com, Ohio State defensive coordinator Greg Schiano is expected to take over the job for next season.

It was recently reported that Schiano would interview for New England’s defensive coordinator job. Patriots linebackers coach Brian Flores has also been mentioned as a top candidate to replace Patricia, who is set to take over as Detroit Lions head coach.

However, Bruce Feldman of Fox Sports has countered the report that Schiano to New England is a done deal. He says Schiano remains undecided as to whether he will leave Columbus and that Flores may still get the Patriots job.

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Schiano, 51, has served as Ohio State's defensive coordinator for the last three years. Prior to getting that job, he spent two years as the head coach of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers (2012-13). He didn't have a particularly great reputation during his short time in Tampa Bay as some players didn't care for his style of coaching.

However, he does have a close relationship with Patriots coach Bill Belichick and also coached current Patriots defensive backs Devin McCourty and Duron Harmon during his time at Rutgers.

If the report of Schiano taking over is indeed true, he’ll inherit a Patriots defense which has its share of question marks. While the Patriots improved after a rough start to the season and finished fifth in points allowed, they were still 29th in total yards allowed.

Their defensive shortcomings were once again exposed during the postseason, and particularly in the Super Bowl as they gave up 41 points and 538 total yards in a loss to the Philadelphia Eagles.