Think about a high school kid from Flowood, Mississippi, standing at the center of a recruiting whirlwind, with college football’s biggest names calling his phone. That’s Bralan Womack, the No. 1 safety in the class of 2026, and right now, he’s got his heart set on Ohio State. This five-star phenom from Hartfield Academy is more than just a highlight reel—he’s a kid with big dreams, a love for the game, and a deep connection to the Buckeyes’ storied program. Here’s the story of Bralan Womack and why Ohio State feels like home.

A Small-Town Kid with Big-Time Talent

Ordinary you say for 17? He stands tall at 6'1" and 200 pounds-an already mighty physique for a college star-while his 40-yard dash time of 4.4 seconds blistering-fast-makes sure his competitors cannot keep up with him. Defensive-wise, he is like a Swiss Army knife: he has had eight interceptions and 26 solo tackles as a safety. Offensively, he pottered around with 32 catches for 562 yards and 10 touchdowns as a wide receiver in his junior season. Of course, he was named the Gatorade Mississippi Football Player of the Year for 2024-25. According to On3, he is the number one-ranked safety and number 18 overall in his class, and trust me when I say that the hype is deserved.

But what makes Bralan special isn’t just his stats. It’s his brain for the game. “I pick up coaching one day and use it the next,” he told Eleven Warriors, his voice brimming with confidence. Ohio State’s safeties coach, Matt Guerrieri, sees it too, praising how Bralan’s football IQ and athleticism make him a coach’s dream. Whether he’s reading a quarterback’s eyes or breaking on a ball, Bralan plays like someone who’s been doing this for decades, not years.

Falling in Love with Ohio State

When Bralan first visited Columbus in April 2025, he wasn’t just another recruit on a campus tour. He was soaking it all in—the energy of the Woody Hayes Athletic Center, the roar of Ohio Stadium, and the tight-knit vibe of the Buckeye locker room. Ohio State offered him a scholarship back in June 2024, and since then, they’ve been all-in, building a relationship that’s got Bralan smiling ear to ear. He’s got an official visit lined up for June 20, 2025, and if his last trip was any indication, it’s going to be tough for other schools to compete.

What’s got him so hooked on Ohio State? It’s the NFL pipeline. Bralan’s got his eyes on the pros, and he knows the Buckeyes have a knack for turning defensive backs into first-round draft picks. “Guys like Marshon Lattimore, Denzel Ward, Jeff Okudah, Malik Hooker—they’re playing six-plus years in the NFL, way past the average,” he said, clearly impressed. He’s also got a soft spot for Caleb Downs, Ohio State’s current star safety, who’s showing him what’s possible. “They develop you to get to the league. That’s what they do every year,” Bralan told Eleven Warriors.

During his April visit, Bralan hit it off with senior linebacker Sonny Styles, a former five-star safety who’s living proof of Ohio State’s player development. “The tradition, the brotherhood, the way they develop players—it’s unreal,” Bralan gushed to On3. He’s already dreaming of teaming up with other top 2026 recruits like five-star safety Blaine Bradford and four-star Simeon Caldwell. “We’d be a crazy trio,” he said, his excitement practically jumping off the page.

The Other Suitors

Ohio State’s got the lead—On3’s Recruiting Prediction Machine gives them a 77.1% shot at landing him—but Bralan’s not short on options. He’s narrowed his list to four: Ohio State, Auburn, Florida, and Texas A&M. He’s got official visits planned to all of them this summer, and schools like Alabama, Notre Dame, LSU, and Georgia are still lurking with offers. Auburn’s coach Hugh Freeze has caught his attention with a vision for building around high school talent, and Florida’s got him thinking about their NFL prep too. Texas A&M’s been pushing hard, with Bralan noting in February 2025 that they and Ohio State are “a little ahead” of the pack because they’ve been in the game longer.

Still, Ohio State’s got something special. Fans on X are buzzing, with one calling Bralan “a Buckeye” already and another hyping up the idea of a “Womack-Bradford-Caldwell” safety trio as “insane.” It’s hard to argue with that kind of enthusiasm.

Countdown to a Big Decision

Bralan’s got a plan: he’s announcing his commitment on August 23, 2025, live on 247Sports’ YouTube channel. Between now and then, he’s hitting the road for those official visits, and every moment will count. His April trip to Ohio State left him calling the Buckeyes his top school, and the coaches are hammering home their pitch: “Come be a part of something special and become another first-rounder.” With a national championship in their pocket and a legacy of sending defensive backs to the NFL, Ohio State’s making it tough for Bralan to look elsewhere.

A Kid with a Dream

At the end of the day, Bralan Womack is a kid from Mississippi with a big heart and bigger ambitions. He’s not just chasing a college offer—he’s chasing a future. Ohio State’s “Best in America” mantra resonates with him, and he’s hungry to leave his mark. If he picks the Buckeyes, he could be the answer to Ohio State’s quest for an elite Southern defensive back, breaking what some fans jokingly call a “curse” of missing out on top DBs from the South.

As Bralan gears up for his big decision, Buckeye Nation is holding its breath, hoping to welcome him to Columbus. For now, he’s a young star with the world at his feet, and Ohio State’s rolling out the red carpet to make sure he knows it. Wherever he lands, one thing’s clear: Bralan Womack is ready to shine.

A Hometown Start

A Bold Decision

Why Ohio State?

What It Means for the Buckeyes

A Dream Worth Chasing

Buckeye fans, get ready to cheer—T’yana Todd, a sharpshooting junior guard from Boston College, is officially joining the Ohio State women’s basketball team! The 6-foot Canadian star announced her commitment on April 15, 2025, and let me tell you, Columbus is buzzing with excitement. This isn’t just another transfer; T’yana’s bringing her silky-smooth jump shot and big-game energy to a Buckeyes squad hungry for a deep NCAA Tournament run.

Picture this: a packed Schottenstein Center, T’yana draining a deep three with that effortless flick of the wrist. That’s the kind of magic she delivered at Boston College, where she lit up scoreboards in the ACC. Over 32 games last season, starting 29, she averaged 13.7 points a game, snagged 2.6 rebounds, dished out 1.5 assists, and swiped a steal per game. But the real jaw-dropper? Her 45.9% three-point shooting, good enough for fourth in the entire country. Oh, and she’s clutch at the free-throw line too, hitting 89.3% of her shots. This isn’t just a player; this is a walking highlight reel.

T’yana’s story started in Vaughan, Ontario, where she honed her game before taking her talents to Chestnut Hill. At BC, she had moments that turned heads—like dropping 29 points on Miami, leaving defenders dizzy. But after a solid season with the Eagles (11-8 overall, 2-4 in the ACC), T’yana was ready for a new challenge. Enter Ohio State, a program with big dreams and a fast-paced style that’s practically tailor-made for her game.

Word got out on April 9 that T’yana was visiting Columbus, and Buckeye Nation held its breath. A few days later, boom—she’s a Buckeye! You can almost imagine her walking across campus, scarlet and gray gear on, feeling the vibe of a place that lives and breathes basketball. Coach Kevin McGuff must’ve rolled out the red carpet, because T’yana clearly saw something special in this team. And why wouldn’t she? Ohio State’s known for letting shooters shine, and with players like Cotie McMahon leaving and other new faces, this roster is shaping up to be a problem for opponents.

So, what’s T’yana bringing to the table? For one, that unreal three-point range. Defenses are going to have to chase her around screens, which should open up the floor for her teammates to attack. Plus, she’s got quick hands on defense—those steals add up. In the Big Ten, where games can get gritty, her ability to score in bunches and stay cool under pressure could be a game-changer. Imagine her sinking a dagger three in a tight game against Michigan or Iowa. Chills, right?

This move isn’t just about basketball—it’s about T’yana finding a new home. Leaving Boston College, where she was a star, couldn’t have been easy. But Columbus has a way of embracing its athletes, and you know Buckeye fans will show her love from day one.

As a fan, it’s hard not to get hyped. T’yana Todd isn’t just a transfer; she’s a spark, a shooter, a playmaker. Whether she’s bombing threes or locking down her matchup, she’s got the tools to make Buckeye Nation proud. So, here’s to T’yana—welcome to Columbus, where the lights are bright, the crowds are loud, and the future looks scarlet and gray.

Ohio State football got some exciting news on April 3, 2025: four-star safety Simeon Caldwell said "yes" to the Buckeyes for the 2026 class. The announcement dropped Thursday morning, and it’s a huge win for head coach Ryan Day and his staff, who’ve been dominating the recruiting trail lately. Caldwell, a standout from Jacksonville’s The Bolles School, turned down big-time programs like Miami, Notre Dame, and USC to join Ohio State. It’s pretty clear he’s all in on what the Buckeyes are building.

Caldwell’s a top-100 national prospect and one of the best safeties in the 2026 class, according to 247Sports’ rankings. At 6-foot-3 and 185 pounds, he’s got the speed and size to make plays all over the field. He’s been a linebacker in high school, but Ohio State sees him shining as a safety—though they love his versatility so much they might move him around if needed. His junior year stats say it all: 60 tackles, 10 tackles for loss, three sacks, two pass breakups, a fumble recovery, and even two blocked field goals. This kid’s a game-changer.

Tim Walton's Nephew

Here’s the cool part: Caldwell’s got family ties to the program. His uncle is Tim Walton, Ohio State’s co-defensive coordinator and cornerbacks coach. “Me and him are tight,” Caldwell said about Walton earlier. “He’s an awesome coach—one of the best out there—and I know he’s got my back.” With Walton’s NFL experience and knack for turning defensive backs into stars, it’s no wonder Caldwell feels right at home with the Buckeyes.

Two in a Row

This commitment comes hot on the heels of another big defensive pickup. Just a few days ago, Ohio State landed five-star safety Blaine Bradford, the top-ranked safety in the 2026 class. Now, with Caldwell on board too, the Buckeyes have two elite safeties locked in within a week. Toss in a 2026 class that already features studs like five-star receiver Chris Henry Jr. and four-star tight end Corbyn Fordham—who’s Caldwell’s teammate at Bolles—and this group’s starting to look unstoppable.

Caldwell had plenty of options. Miami, Notre Dame, and USC were all in the running, and he’d even scheduled official visits with them for this summer. But after popping up to Columbus for an unofficial visit over the weekend, he knew he’d found his spot. “This feels like home,” he told On3’s Hayes Fawcett in his commitment announcement. “I took my time with recruiting for a reason—I wanted the right place, and Ohio State’s it.” He’s already canceled those other visits, which shows how confident he is in this choice.

Ask Caldwell what he brings to the table, and he doesn’t hold back. “I think they’re getting one of the sharpest players out there,” he said after committing. “Football’s been my whole life. I’m fast, I’m big, I hit hard—safety, linebacker, whatever they need, I’ll do it and do it right.” That’s no shock when you look at his roots. His dad, Mike Caldwell, played 11 years in the NFL and coached the Jacksonville Jaguars’ defense.

What it Means for Ohio State

For Ohio State fans, this is just more fuel for the hype train after that national championship run. “Buckeye Nation’s coming off a title, and there’s more where that came from,” Caldwell said. “I’m not leaving here without a ring.” That kind of fire fits perfectly with what Day, Walton, safeties coach Matt Guerrieri, and new defensive coordinator Matt Patricia are cooking up. Caldwell gave them all props for making him feel wanted.

As spring turns to summer, Ohio State’s 2026 class is shaping up to be something special. Caldwell’s commitment locks down a secondary that’s already looking tough, and it’s got fans dreaming of more big things ahead. For now, though, let’s just soak in another recruiting win—and get pumped to see Simeon Caldwell light it up in Scarlet and Gray come 2026.

Favour Akih is the kind of kid who makes you proud to be from Ohio. A four-star running back from Delaware, just a quick 30-minute drive from Columbus, he’s tearing it up at Rutherford B. Hayes High School and dreaming big about playing for Ohio State in 2026. Growing up so close to the Horseshoe, he’s got Buckeye blood in him, and lately, he’s been turning heads as one of the top prospects in his class. Here’s the scoop on Favour and why he’s got his sights set on scarlet and gray.

A Junior Season That Turned Heads

Let me tell you, Favour’s junior year in 2024 was something else. The guy ran wild—1,653 yards and 15 touchdowns on 236 carries over 11 games, according to MaxPreps. That’s not just good; that’s “hold onto your hat” good. He wasn’t just a ground-and-pound runner either—he snagged nine catches for 142 yards and three more scores out of the backfield. The kid’s fast, tough, and can shake defenders like they’re standing still. He had four games where he topped 200 yards rushing, just taking over like it was nothing. Oh, and he even moonlights as a linebacker on defense. Talk about a do-it-all athlete.

At 6 feet and 190 pounds, Favour’s got the size and the moves to make you think, “Yeah, this kid’s built for the big time.” Watching him play, you can see why college coaches are losing sleep trying to get him on their team.

Recruitment Heating Up: Ohio State’s Calling

Favour’s phone has been blowing up with offers—over 20 from big-time schools like USC, Miami, Penn State, Michigan State, you name it. But Ohio State? That’s the one that hits different. He’s been a Buckeye fan forever, and he’s not shy about saying it’s “every Ohio kid’s dream” to play there. I mean, who wouldn’t want to run out of that tunnel in Columbus?

The Buckeyes made it official on March 17, 2025. Coach Ryan Day and running backs guru Carlos Locklyn sat him down after he checked out their first spring practice and said, “You’re our guy.” Favour was over the moon—he hopped on social media right after, shouting out, “WOW… TO GOD BE THE GLORY! After a great talk with @ryandaytime, I’m blessed beyond belief to get an offer from THEE OHIO STATE UNIVERSITY! GO BUCKS.” You can feel how much it meant to him. He’s been tight with Locklyn for a while now—talking every day, hearing how he’d fit in with the team. That kind of connection sticks with you.

Just a couple days later, on March 19, he trimmed his list to three: Ohio State, USC, and Miami. He’s got visits lined up—Ohio State June 6-8, USC June 13-15, and Miami June 20-22. The recruiting gurus, like Steve Wiltfong from On3 and Allen Trieu from 247Sports, are betting on the Buckeyes. On3’s giving it an 84% shot, and Wiltfong’s at 60% confidence. Being so close to home might just seal the deal.

Why Ohio State Feels Like Home

It’s not just about the short drive for Favour. He’s all about what Ohio State stands for—the grit, the family vibe, the way they push each other. “The culture and brotherhood at Ohio State, it’s unreal,” he told The Silver Bulletin after catching the Nebraska game in 2024. “Everyone’s got each other’s back, and that’s why they’re so good.” He geeked out watching freshman star Jeremiah Smith make insane catches that day, saying it was “a dream come true” to see him live.

Favour looks at guys like Ezekiel Elliott and J.K. Dobbins and thinks, “I could be next.” He told folks, “Ohio State’s turned out so many awesome running backs, and I think they could help me grow as a player and a person.” Plus, staying near family and friends? That’s a big bonus. “It’s always cool to play close to home,” he said with a grin.

Where He Stands Nationally

The recruiting sites love him—247Sports has him as the No. 205 player in the 2026 class, No. 15 running back, and No. 7 in Ohio. On3’s got him at No. 186 overall and No. 7 at his position. He’s got that perfect mix of speed and strength, and he can catch passes like a wideout. Most schools want him toting the rock, but USC’s pitching him as a linebacker, which is pretty wild. He’s hyped to visit LA and see what that’s about, but you get the sense Ohio State’s still got the inside track.

What’s Next for Favour

Right now, as of March 22, 2025, Favour’s still weighing his options. Those summer visits in June are gonna be huge. Ohio State’s 2026 class is already stacked—ranked No. 6 by On3 with studs like five-star receiver Chris Henry Jr. locked in. Favour would fit right in, especially after they nabbed Anthony Rogers and Bo Jackson for 2025.

Picture this: a 6-foot-8, 310-pound sophomore striding through the halls of Archbishop Hoban High School in Akron, Ohio, with a subtle smile and an aspiration bigger than his frame. That's Sam Greer—a gentle giant stirring up waves in the football world, not so much due to his size, but due to the heart and hustle he brings to everything he does. Already 16 and among the hottest recruits in the class of 2026, he's a prospect to keep an eye on, and his story is one of grit as much as gridiron greatness.

A Multisport Kid with a Football Future

Sam’s no stranger to the spotlight at Hoban, a school that’s practically a factory for state titles and college talent. As a freshman in 2022, he was already dipping his toes into varsity football, playing in seven or eight games before a nagging back injury forced him to take a breather. “It was tough,” he admitted later, but you wouldn’t know it from how he bounced back. That same year, he traded cleats for sneakers and showed up on the basketball court, too. Starting on JV while his body healed, he worked his way up to varsity and ended up starting in the OHSAA Division I state final four. Twelve points and 12 rebounds in one game, 12 points and three steals in another—he was a force, even as the youngest guy out there.

“I like proving I can do more than people expect,” Sam said once, and it’s that kind of quiet determination that’s got coaches buzzing. His football coach, Tim Tyrrell, saw it early. “He would’ve started as a freshman if not for that injury,” Tyrrell said. “Kid’s got something special.”

The Day Ohio State Came Calling

April 5, 2023, was a day Sam won’t forget. He’d tagged along with his coach for a visit to Ohio State, figuring it’d be a cool tour and maybe a handshake or two. Instead, he walked out with his first Division I scholarship offer—from the Buckeyes, no less. “I was shocked,” he told cleveland.com, laughing about how he didn’t see it coming. “I thought they’d just show me around.” That offer flipped a switch. Suddenly, this lanky freshman was on the radar of college football’s biggest names.

Since then, it’s been a whirlwind. Michigan, Florida, Tennessee, Miami, LSU—you name the powerhouse, they’ve probably offered Sam a spot. By February 2025, he’s got over 18 offers stacked up, and recruiters are tripping over themselves to get him on campus. He’s a four-star kid now, ranked among the top offensive tackles in his class, but he’s still the same Sam: humble, hardworking, and a little overwhelmed by it all.

Bumps in the Road

Life hasn’t handed Sam everything on a silver platter. In August 2023, he broke his leg—a gut punch that needed surgery and kept him off the field for weeks. “It was rough, just sitting there watching,” he said. But he didn’t sulk. He leaned on his teammates, guys like Nate Cross and Will Satterwhite, who’ve been in his shoes and know what it takes to get to the next level. “They’ve been huge for me,” Sam said. “They’re always pushing me to get better.”

And get better he did. Back in the weight room, he’s piling on muscle—some say he’s up to 305 pounds now—and sharpening his game. “Three more years with him here?” Nate Cross grinned. “Man, that’s gonna be scary.”

The Recruitment Rollercoaster

Fast forward to 2025, and Sam’s got a spring packed with plane tickets and campus tours. He’s hitting Missouri, Ohio State, Michigan, Miami, Tennessee, Florida, Florida State, and Wisconsin—all before summer hits. “I want to see what’s out there,” he explained. “Meet the coaches, feel the vibe.” Ohio State’s still got a hometown pull—he’s an Akron kid, after all—and some folks are betting he’ll stay close to home. But he’s keeping an open mind. After a Notre Dame visit in 2023, he couldn’t stop talking about it. “I’d love to go back,” he said, eyes lighting up.

Every trip’s a chance to figure out where he fits. “It’s not just about football,” he told me. “It’s about who’s gonna help me grow.” That’s Sam in a nutshell—thinking bigger than the next play.

The Guy Behind the Size

So what’s Sam like when he’s not pancaking defenders or swatting shots? He’s a big kid—literally and figuratively. He’s got this easy laugh that cuts through his quiet demeanor, and he’s tight with his family and teammates. “I just want to make them proud,” he said once, talking about his parents and little brother. On the field, he’s a wall—6-foot-8 with arms that seem to stretch forever—but off it, he’s the guy who’d rather listen than brag.

His size is what gets him noticed, but it’s his work ethic that keeps him there. Whether he’s rehabbing an injury or sweating it out at Hoban, Sam’s all in. “I want to be the best,” he said simply. And with two more high school seasons to go, he’s got time to make it happen.

Where’s He Headed?

Right now, Sam’s focused on 2025—getting healthy, dominating for Hoban, and soaking up every college visit. Ohio State’s got the inside track, but don’t count out the likes of Tennessee or Michigan just yet. Wherever he lands, one thing’s for sure: Sam Greer’s not just a name on a recruiting list. He’s a kid from Akron chasing a dream, one block at a time. And if you ask him, he’s just getting started.

It’s a chilly February 21, 2025, and while most of us are still basking in the glow of Ohio State’s national championship win last month, the Buckeyes’ coaching staff isn’t resting. Nope, they’re already deep in the trenches—figuratively and literally—chasing the next crop of offensive line stars for the 2026 class. New offensive line coach Tyler Bowen is leading the charge, and let me tell you, this guy’s hitting the ground running like he’s got something to prove. With fresh offers flying out and a hometown kid like Adam Guthrie in the spotlight, the future of Ohio State’s big uglies up front is starting to take shape. Here’s the scoop on who’s who and what’s cooking in Columbus.

Tyler Bowen: The New Guy with Big Plans

Picture this: You’re Tyler Bowen, stepping into one of the biggest jobs in college football just weeks ago. You’ve coached All-Americans, called plays as an offensive coordinator, and now you’re tasked with keeping Ohio State’s offensive line a powerhouse. No pressure, right? Well, Bowen’s not fazed. In the last 24 hours, he’s dropped three new scholarship offers to 2026 offensive line prospects like it’s Christmas morning. And these aren’t just any kids—they’re the kind of players who could pancake defenders for years.

• Deacon Schmitt (Windsor, CO): Imagine a 6-foot-6, 275-pound kid from Colorado who’s as athletic as he is big. That’s Deacon. He got his Ohio State offer today, and you can bet he’s grinning ear to ear. He’s already got Colorado and Kansas State knocking, but when the Buckeyes call, it’s a whole different ballgame. I can see him squinting at film of Josh Simmons and dreaming of protecting the next Ohio State QB.
• Claude Mpouma (Chicago, IL): Claude’s a Chicago kid from Mount Carmel—a school that churns out tough, gritty linemen like it’s a factory. At 6-foot-5 and 290 pounds, he’s got the size and the moves to make recruiters drool. His offer came today too, joining Illinois and Wisconsin on his list. I’d love to be a fly on the wall when he tells his buddies, “Yeah, Ohio State wants me.” That’s the kind of moment that changes a kid’s life.
• Evan Goodwin (Rogers, AR): Evan’s a gentle giant at 6-foot-7, 300 pounds, and he’s been on Ohio State’s radar since Bowen offered him a few days back on February 17. He told Bucknuts he’s “definitely interested” in the Buckeyes, and you can hear the excitement in his voice. Here’s the cool part: he already knows Charlie Dickey, one of Ohio State’s new analysts, from when Dickey recruited him at Oklahoma State. That connection? It’s like having an uncle in your corner at a family reunion.

Bowen’s going after guys who are big, yes, but also quick and smart—perfect fits for Ohio State’s high-octane offense. After signing just three linemen in 2025, he’s clearly thinking, “We need more beef up front,” and I’m here for it.

Adam Guthrie: The Local Kid Everyone Wants

Now, let’s talk about Adam Guthrie. If you’re from Ohio, you might know Miami Trace High School as that small-town spot about 30 minutes from Columbus. Adam’s a 6-foot-7, 285-pound tackle who’s got the whole state buzzing. He’s ranked No. 6 in Ohio for 2026 by 247Sports, and when he got his Ohio State offer back on October 5, 2024, during the Iowa game, he called it “crazy.” I get it—imagine being 17, standing in the Shoe with 100,000 fans screaming, and someone hands you a golden ticket.

Adam’s got official visits lined up for June: Clemson on May 31, Ohio State on June 6, and Penn State on June 13. He’s been back to Columbus since, including for “The Game” against Michigan, and Ohio State’s planning to swing by his school twice in one day soon. That’s the kind of love that says, “You’re our guy.” With 39 offers—Alabama, Michigan, you name it—he’s got options, but staying home could be special. His first big offer came from Marcus Johnson, now an Ohio State analyst, so there’s a bond there. Still, Clemson’s a real threat. June 6 might just be the day he decides where his heart’s at.

The Rest of the Crew: Who Else Is on the List?

Bowen’s not stopping with Adam and his new offers. Ohio State’s chasing a whole squad of 2026 linemen, and it’s like a wish list for any fan who loves watching the big guys up front.

• Maxwell Riley (Avon Lake, OH): Max is another Ohio kid, a 6-foot-5, 280-pound beast who can play tackle or guard. He’s down to Ohio State and Clemson, and honestly, I’d bet on the Buckeyes. He’s close enough to smell the Scarlet and Gray paint, and after that championship? He’s got to be tempted.
• Jackson Cantwell (Nixa, MO): Okay, this kid’s the dream. At 6-foot-8, 300 pounds, he’s the No. 1 player in the whole 2026 class. Ohio State’s in his top six with Alabama, Georgia, and others, but pulling him from Missouri would be like stealing a prize hog from the state fair. I’m crossing my fingers.
• Immanuel Iheanacho (Rockville, MD): Immanuel’s a 6-foot-7, 325-pound five-star who’s got every coach in America texting him. Ohio State’s in the mix, but it’s going to take some charm to beat out the SEC and ACC.
• Felix Ojo (Mansfield, TX): Felix is 6-foot-6, 275 pounds, and he’s got an official visit set with Ohio State. Coming from Texas, where football’s practically religion, he’s a long shot worth chasing.
• Darius Gray (Richmond, VA): Darius, a five-star, was pumped when Bowen got hired—he knows him from Virginia Tech. At 6-foot-5, 305 pounds, he’s a monster, and Ohio State’s fighting to get him despite his packed visit schedule elsewhere.

Then there’s Sam Greer from Akron, Ben Nichols from Michigan, Micah Smith from Florida, and Samuelu Utu from California—all four-star talents Bowen’s eyeing. It’s like he’s building a dream team of linemen, and I’m already imagining them opening holes for the next TreVeyon Henderson.

Why It Matters

Here’s the deal: Ohio State’s offensive line is why we’re champs right now. Guys like Josh Simmons and Donovan Jackson made it happen, but they’re gone after 2025. We’ve got some studs coming back—Carson Hinzman, Tegra Tshabola, plus transfers Ethan Onianwa and Phillip Daniels—but we need more, especially at tackle. Bowen knows it, and he’s not messing around.

Think about it: a kid like Adam Guthrie pancaking a Michigan linebacker in 2026, or Evan Goodwin stonewalling some SEC edge rusher. That’s the vision. With Bowen’s recruiting chops—he landed stars like Olu Fashanu at Penn State—and new analysts like Dickey and Johnson helping out, Ohio State’s got the tools to make it real. The 2025 class was top-five, and if Bowen can snag Adam, maybe Jackson Cantwell, and a couple of his new offer kids, 2026 could be even better.

It's a move that cements confidence in one of the most promising young coaches across the country in college football-Ohio State will indeed promote wide receivers coach Brian Hartline to offensive coordinator. In an official statement from Ohio State on Wednesday, Hartline finishes his improbable, meteoric climb from being an assistant of the wide receivers coach to a significant position shaping up one of the best attacking sides in the nation.

Meteor-like Rise

Brian Hartline, 36, has been at Ohio State since 2017, joining the program first as a quality control coach before quickly working his way up. Labeled as an elite wide receiver recruiter and developer of talent, the promotion of Hartline was highly anticipated with great excitement in the Ohio State community. From former Buckeye and NFL player to huge part of the staff, the rise has been nothing short of phenomenal.

Hartline's coaching at Ohio State started very humbly, but it certainly took off. He was the interim wide receivers coach in 2018, and under head coach Ryan Day, he got the job permanently in 2019. In 2022, further recognition of his prowess came with him being named the passing game coordinator in addition to his wide receiver duties.

Impact on the Field

Under Hartline's tutelage, Ohio State has had a few first-round NFL draft picks at wideout in Garrett Wilson, Chris Olave, and Jameson Williams, who took a graduate transfer to Alabama for his final year of eligibility. That tidbit speaks not only to his development capabilities but to his recruiting skills to get elite talent to Columbus.

It couldn't happen at a much better time because the Ohio State offense has consistently been one of the best within college football in the past year, ranking nationally in the top ten for both total yardage and scoring. With Hartline taking over as offensive coordinator, there's some anticipation that Ohio State will remain in chokehold mode on the offense with former offensive coordinator Kevin Wilson taking off to take his first head-coaching job in Tulsa.

The Strategic Move

Brian has done a phenomenal job in every football capacity he has been in, Coach Ryan Day said. He figures things out quick, and he is more than ready to transition now as offensive coordinator. A decision by Day to elevate Hartline also showed a strategic move to keep a key talent developer inside the program-particularly in an era when coaching staff mobility can disrupt team continuity.

That would also come with some play-calling responsibilities, although that is not yet cemented. In the case that Day would choose to let the play calls, Hartline might be a natural fit based on his intimate familiarity with Ohio State's scheme and his rapport with the players.

Expectations and Challenges

Not all that is easy, though: Hartline steps into a role with the bar very high, considering Ohio State has had one prolific offense after another of late. Further, some of those key positions will be manned by new players in 2025, which also means Hartline must show his adaptability and some creativity.

But Hartline's résumé says he is ready for the jump. How he has related to his players, adapted on the fly, and competed at every turn is some of the reason he's been able to win over his fellow assistant coaches and the opposing sidelines. Familiarity with this program's culture and systems will go a long way toward the Buckeyes' competing with everyone else.

On Deck

It all now falls squarely on Hartline's shoulders as Ohio State goes into spring practices. How he will gel with incoming talent, including Jeremiah Smith and a possible new quarterback in Julian Sayin among others, remains important. A whole community of Buckeyes are abuzz with anticipation that this promotion by Hartline might bring another era of dominance to offense.

As the college football recruiting cycle of 2026 is well underway, a multitude of names have surfaced in discussion over Ohio State's future on the offensive line, but one seems to keep cropping up: Adam Guthrie. The four-star offensive tackle (OT) prospect out of Miami Trace High School in Washington Court House, Ohio, has materialized arguably as the biggest priority for the Buckeyes seeking depth along the offensive line with in-state talent. Now that the 2025 recruiting class is in the books, the attention of Ohio State shifts to the 2026 cycle - one that could prove pivotal to the Buckeyes' long-term success. After getting a couple of tackles in the Transfer Portal, 2026 becomes their next priority. Tacked onto the more general story-line that is Ohio State's 2026 class, Guthrie's commitment makes for a pretty interesting look into Buckeyes' strategy and the world of college football recruiting.

Adam Guthrie: A Rising Star in Ohio

Probably one of the hottest recruits within the 2026 class right now is the rising star Adam Guthrie, and he is a big - 6-foot-7 and 285-pound - offensive tackle prospect. Ranked as the nation's No. 211 overall prospect and No. 16 offensive tackle nationally, Guthrie has been widely pursued by powerhouse programs across every corner of America. His long list of over 40 FBS scholarship offers includes elite institutions such as Ohio State, Penn State, Clemson, Michigan, Georgia, Florida, and Texas A&M among others. "This is all about his massive upside as the potential anchor, cornerstone offensive linemen at some top college or university," a recruiting analyst opined.

Guthrie is an in-state prospect who has raved about Ohio State, mentioning how proximity to his hometown - it's just 30 minutes away - is part of the attraction. He referred to Ohio State as a "top program" and a school that "definitely sits near the top" of his list. A slew of visits to Columbus - including one for the Iowa game and another for the National Championship celebration - have helped solidify his interest. He's been able to build a relationship with outgoing offensive line coach Justin Frye, among others, after he was personally offered a scholarship by Frye following a conversation on one of his trips to Ohio Stadium.

Ohio State has recruited Guthrie very hard. The coaching staff, including head coach Ryan Day and Frye, has made him a priority by visiting his high school multiple times. In fact, they have even attended some of his basketball practices. That attention explains why he is an important piece to Ohio State's recruiting plans in 2026, particularly with the Buckeyes needing to balance a thinner-than-ideal 2025 offensive line class. With his size, athleticism and "true tackle frame," Guthrie would be an ideal fit in Ohio State's scheme, but it's that potential to anchor the line for years which hasn't gone unnoticed.

But Ohio State has stiff competition for Guthrie's commitment. Programs like Penn State-which also made in-home visits-and Clemson are highly involved in his recruitment. Most likely, Guthrie's decision will come down to a combination of factors: comfort with the coaching staff, the opportunity for early playing time, and the allure of staying close to home. While Ohio State is in a strong position, the battle for his signature is far from over.

Ohio State Recruiting Class of 2026: Building a Powerhouse

The 2026 recruiting cycle is one in which Ohio State really needs to fill in some key positional needs to keep the program at an elite level. Ohio State's 2025 class was talented but notably light on offensive linemen, including only three signees. That has put more pressure on the 2026 class, especially the in-state prospects like Guthrie who can help lock down the offensive line. The coaching staff, led by Ryan Day, has always made it clear that recruiting Ohio is atop the list of importance for the Buckeyes - and the 2026 class is shaping up to be one of the deepest in recent memory for the state.

Ohio State is prioritizing the best in-state talent on the offensive line for 2026. Along with Guthrie, the Buckeyes are recruiting four-star tackles such as Avon Lake's Maxwell Riley, Archbishop Hoban's Sam Greer and interior lineman Will Conroy from St. Ignatius. That group has been called potentially the "deepest offensive line/tackle class ever" for the state of Ohio, and landing all four would be a big score for the Buckeyes. Particularly, Riley is the biggest target to mention, who has Ohio State and Clemson as his two finalists with a commitment not too far away.

Away from the offensive line, Ohio State's 2026 class is oozing with skill on both sides of the ball. The Buckeyes have their first defensive commitment in four-star cornerback Jakob Weatherspoon, an in-state product and exactly the kind of elite defensive back that Ohio State has churned out on a consistent basis. Other elite defensive targets include in-state five-star CB Elbert Hill, four-star LB Cincere Johnson, and four-star S Victor Singleton. On offense, it's five-star WR Chris Henry Jr., who is coming off an injury to his knee but was still the crown jewel of this class. That's been the case since the summer when Henry committed to Ohio State, though other programs seem to be staying in touch - at least publicly.

Ohio State recruit the nation, man, but also dominate the in-state products and that's a surefire way to ensure success within the program. That's no different in this 2026 class with the Buckeyes in on several of the top prospects - everything from four-star quarterback Brady Smigiel, who decommitted from Florida State recently, to five-star safety Zech Fort, who includes Ohio State among his top six schools. Throw in the above-mentioned in-state stars and these players can potentially form the core of a class that would keep Ohio State competitive for a national championship.

The Bigger Picture: Ohio State's Recruiting Strategy

Ohio State's approach to the 2026 class, both immediate needs and long-term planning, falls in line. With a lighter 2025 offensive line haul, added pressure was put on the 2026 cycle, but securing players such as Guthrie, Riley, and Greer became integral. In that case, Coach Frye put the building of relationships with these prospects first. Ohio State's recent on-field success, headlined by the capturing of a National Championship, has positioned the program as an attractive destination for the most talented of prospects.

The Buckeyes' recruiting, too, seems to focus more on adaptability. The transfer portal remains very relevant, and Ohio State adapted by supplementing the roster via transfer while making high school recruiting a priority, ensuring Ohio State will have good depth and flexibility at positions that might see unexpected needs due to attrition and NFL departure-mostly at lines of scrimmage and the secondary.

For Guthrie, the commitment to Ohio State would mean being part of a program steeped in tradition with regard to sending NFL-caliber linemen to the league. Ohio State has a rich history in that respect, and couple that with the proximity to home and the ability to compete for championships, that will make them an attractive option. But the Buckeyes still have work to do, staying on that aggressive pursuit, to take out other elite programs for the commitment of Guthrie.

The heart of Columbus is about to go scarlet and gray this Sunday as Ohio State University's football team gets ready to celebrate their just taken home victory over Notre Dame 34-23 in the College Football Playoff National Championship. Celebration events at iconic Ohio Stadium, otherwise affectionately called "The Horseshoe," are set for noon.

Public and free, the gates will open at 10:30 a.m. Free parking is available on a first-come, first-serve basis around Ohio Stadium, St. John Arena and the Schottenstein Center. The fans bundled up against the expected winter chill but high in spirits, will take part in celebration of the ninth national championship.

The event will be broadcast live on Big Ten Network for those viewers nationwide and on 10TV for those locally so that those who cannot make it to the event in person can join in the celebration. Ohio State's Athletic Director Ross Bjork will emcee, with scheduled speeches from Ohio Governor Mike DeWine, Columbus Mayor Andrew Ginther, Ohio State President Ted Carter, head coach Ryan Day, and select players from the championship squad.

The atmosphere promises to be electric with fans certain to chant the Buckeyes' rallying cry of "O-H," "I-O," echoing in the stadium. Ohio Stadium, in which many defining moments occurred for this season, would once again bear witness to an unforgettable instance in Ohio State's storied football history. It will celebrate the story of this team, from its regular season loss to Michigan that called into question the direction of the team and the job security of Coach Day, to the triumphant march through the playoffs en route to the title.

Among the senior day recognitions will be one for quarterback Will Howard, whose performance in the championship game turned out to be pivotal. His 56-yard completion to freshman wideout Jeremiah Smith in the fourth quarter will be replayed to deafening cheers from the fans. The presence of players like Howard, defensive end Jack Sawyer, and others who have pledged to return for the celebration despite their looming NFL Draft decisions will drive home the camaraderie and cohesion that carried the team to victory.

It also serves unofficially to tee up the Ohio State recruiting season since many of the top prospects will be in attendance to experience the passion and tradition that is Buckeye football. A time, not only to remember past successes, but to get a glimpse of the hoped-for future in Ohio State football.

There will be concessions, but few and well thought out, to offer fans things that warm them up, such as water, hot chocolate, and coffee-since it will be a slight chance of precipitation. The cold does not stand a chance this Saturday against Ohio State spirit. That is the statement of the Ohio State fans who are loyal and dedicated to their team, no matter the weather.