Buckeye Nation Rejoices: Aaron Thomas Commits to Ohio State!

A Big Win for the 2026 Class

For all Buckeye Nation out there, it's time for hype! On June 25, 2025, exquisite three-star OT Aaron Thomas from Phoenix, Arizona, gave his verbal commitment to Ohio State, furthering an already stellar 2026 recruiting class. For any Buckeye whatsoever, this would jolt the heart; we cannot wait to see this kid don scarlet and gray.

The Big Man from Mountain Pointe

At 6-foot-7 and 300 pounds, Aaron Thomas is a straight-up giant from Mountain Pointe High School. Ranked as the No. 439 overall prospect and No. 36 offensive tackle in the nation by 247Sports’ composite rankings, he’s got the size and raw talent that make coaches dream big. Thomas joins fellow offensive line commits Sam Greer, Maxwell Riley, and Tucker Smith, giving Ohio State four massive linemen in the 2026 class. That’s a serious haul, especially after signing just three linemen in 2025. Buckeye Nation, we’re building a wall up front!

Tyler Bowen’s Recruiting Magic

New offensive line coach Tyler Bowen is proving he’s got the Midas touch when it comes to recruiting. Since joining the staff in February, he’s been on a mission to lock down high-upside talent for the trenches, and Thomas is a perfect fit for that vision. With his massive frame and room to grow, Thomas is the kind of player who can develop into a star under Bowen’s guidance. As Thomas’ high school coach said, “He’s gonna give Ohio State everything he’s got—heart, hustle, you name it.” That’s the kind of player we love in Columbus.

Beating Out the Big Dogs

Thomas didn’t make this decision lightly. He chose Ohio State over heavy hitters like Texas, Texas A&M, Washington, and Florida State—where his dad, Eric Thomas, played center back in the late ’90s. Even after an official visit to Texas A&M the weekend before his commitment, Thomas couldn’t resist the pull of Columbus. After his May 30 visit to Ohio State, he told reporters, “The vibe in Columbus was unreal. Everyone was so pumped, and the chance to play for a program like Ohio State? That’s next-level.” That’s the kind of love for the Buckeyes that makes us proud.

Training with a Legend

Here’s something that’ll get you even more excited: Thomas spends his offseasons training with none other than former Ohio State star LeCharles Bentley. If that name doesn’t give you chills, you haven’t been a Buckeye fan long enough. Thomas raved about Bentley, saying, “He’s one of the best in the game. He’s taught me so much about technique and staying disciplined.” With that kind of mentorship already in his pocket, Thomas is coming to Ohio State ready to learn and dominate.

The Future Is Bright

With his towering height and long arms, Thomas has all the tools to be a legit tackle at the college level. Sure, he might need a little time to polish his game—most linemen do—but you can’t teach 6-foot-7. As one scout put it, “Thomas has the build to be a true tackle and could be a game-changer with the right coaching.” With Bowen and Ohio State’s track record of churning out NFL linemen, Thomas has a real shot to live up to his dream of being a first-round draft pick, as he told Eleven Warriors.

Arizona to Ohio: A Growing Pipeline

His commitment is certainly coinciding with Ohio State's increased connection with Arizona talent. Thomas is the second tackle from the state in the 2026 class with Tucker Smith. Coach Bowen and the staff seem to be leaving no stone unturned, and in proving their area's recruiting power by going toe-to-toe against programs such as Texas A&M and Florida State for a guy like Thomas.

Let’s Celebrate, Buckeye Nation!

Nuckeye fans, this commitment deserves some shouting. Standing tall with size, heart, and potential abound, Aaron Thomas enters a 2026 class that already has 17 commits, including 14 blue-chip prospects. This group is going to be something special, and Thomas is a big part of it. So, join me in loudly chanting O-H-I-O as we welcome Aaron Thomas into the Buckeye family. Here's to dominating down there and making some noise in Columbus!

Welcome to the squad, Aaron! Let’s go, Buckeyes! 🌰

Sources: The Columbus Dispatch, Eleven Warriors, On3, 247Sports

Elijah Newman-Hall, 2028 Running Back, Picks Ohio State Football

COLUMBUS, Ohio — Buckeye Nation got some exciting news today! Elijah Newman-Hall, a talented running back from the class of 2028, just announced he’s joining the Ohio State Buckeyes. The young star from Blake High School in Tampa, Florida, made his choice after shining at Ohio State’s recruiting camp earlier this week. It’s a huge early win for running backs coach Carlos Locklyn and the Buckeyes, who are already building something special for the future.

A Rising Star from Tampa

The 6-foot, 200-pound bruiser has just begun to stir up interest as he is entering his freshman year at high school with limitless potential. He hasn’t yet been ranked by the major recruiting sites such as 247Sports, but the offers are already pouring in from the likes of Florida Atlantic, FIU, South Florida, UCF, and Wake Forest—Wake Forest, dear reader, that is something special! The mere fact that he chose Ohio State over those programs only ensures that he truly believes in what the Buckeyes are creating.

Connecting at Camp

The kid had a blast at Ohio State’s summer camp in Columbus, where he got to show off his skills and vibe with the coaching staff. Word is, he really hit it off with Coach Locklyn, who’s been doing an awesome job shaping the Buckeyes’ running back group. You might’ve heard Favour Akih, another recent running back commit, raving about the “brotherhood” and awesome culture at Ohio State. It’s not hard to imagine Elijah felt the same way, especially since he committed so quickly after his visit.

The Perfect Fit for the Buckeyes

Ohio State’s been all about finding versatile running backs who can run tough and catch passes out of the backfield, and Elijah fits that mold perfectly. He’s got the size and strength to bulldoze defenders, kind of like former Buckeye Mike Weber, who was a beast at keeping the offense moving. While we don’t have a ton of stats on Elijah yet since he’s so young, his frame and early buzz suggest he could be a game-changer down the road.

Kicking Off the 2028 Class

This commitment is a big deal because Elijah is the first recruit to jump on board for Ohio State’s 2028 class. That’s right—three years out, and the Buckeyes are already locking in talent! With no running backs committed yet for 2027, Elijah’s decision gives Ohio State a head start on building their future backfield. It’s pretty cool to see a kid this young bet on himself and a program like Ohio State.

Ohio State’s Recruiting Dominance

Under head coach Ryan Day, the Buckeyes have been killing it on the recruiting trail, pulling in top players from Ohio and beyond. Elijah’s commitment shows they’re still a magnet for talent, even from a football hotbed like Florida. Blake High School, where Elijah plays, has a history of producing great athletes, so he’s coming from a program that knows how to develop stars.

Fans Fired Up on X

X was buzzing this morning with fans hyped about the news. Recruiting insider Spencer Holbrook posted, “BOOM! Ohio State lands its first 2028 commit: RB Elijah Newman-Hall! This kid from Tampa camped in Columbus this week and is ready to be a Buckeye.” You can feel the excitement from fans who can’t wait to see what Elijah brings to the table.

A Bright Future Ahead

As Elijah keeps growing at Blake High, he’s got plenty of time to polish his game. With Ohio State’s track record of turning running backs like J.K. Dobbins and Ezekiel Elliott into NFL studs, he’s in great hands. For now, Buckeye fans are just thrilled to have this promising young talent in the fold.

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

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.

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.

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.

The unexpected move on the college transfer saga has sent Georgia Bulldogs edge rusher Damon Wilson into the NCAA transfer portal, where the recruitment race for top tier programs is heated. Below, take a deeper look at what would be an Ohio State transfer of Wilson, a set visit schedule, other contenders, and every detail about this movement that is vital.

The Background:

He's a former five-star recruit from the class of 2023 and has been a big part of Georgia's defensive line. Despite flashing at times, Wilson was a very situational player, backing up some of the superstars. This season, he has 22 tackles, three sacks, and forced two fumbles in the 2024 season, proving himself as a valuable rotational edge rusher. But Wilson, who has two years of eligibility remaining, has been seeking another opportunity where he can start or play a much more significant role.

Ohio State Visit:

The Buckeyes are now considered one of the team leaders for the giant wideout. On a visit on January 10, 2025, Wilson will visit Ohio State and take in the Buckeyes' defensive scheme fit along with the coaching staff fit. This visit comes on the heels of Ohio State being one of Wilson's hardest suitors during his initial recruitment out of high school. The Buckeyes need depth along the defensive end position, with guys like Jack Sawyer and J.T. Tuimoloau heading to the NFL, which puts Wilson in a good position.

Other Schools in Consideration:

While Ohio State appears to be the leader of the pack, Wilson is not without options:

Missouri: Wilson has already visited Missouri, showing interest in their program which is looking to bolster its defense with talented transfers.

Texas: Some insiders suggest that Texas could be in the mix, especially considering their need for a pass rusher to keep up with the competitive SEC landscape.

Alabama: With Alabama's history with elite defensive ends, they always hang around in these recruitment tugs-of-war, at least, which is less the case this time around, it seems.

These schools can present different avenues for Wilson, including immediate playing time and development for top defensive linemen coaching staffs.

Why Ohio State?

Ohio State does have a good case for the services of Wilson:

Familiarity: Ohio State has a pre-existing relationship with Wilson from his high school recruitment days, offering a sense of familiarity and trust.
Coaching: Defensive line coach Larry Johnson has developed elite edge rushers such as Chase Young and the Bosa brothers, which could be appealing for Wilson's NFL aspirations.
Need for Talent: With the key players gone, Wilson could fall into a very important role and potentially start or be a key rotational player to add depth to Ohio State's defensive line.

Ohio State Impact:

Landing Wilson would be a coup for Ohio State. His addition could significantly improve the Buckeyes' pass rush in the Big Ten, where they'll face tough competition in the College Football Playoff race. His experience and athleticism could provide the needed edge in big games.

Final Thoughts:

As the transfer portal window closes and teams lock in their rosters for the upcoming season, the decision of Damon Wilson will be highly watched. A visit to Ohio State could determine his commitment, as the Buckeyes have to show him where he fits. Predictions are currently in favor of Ohio State. The recruitment of Wilson goes past adding any other player and will be viewed as likely to lock up one of the best talents that could be out there in the transfer portal to aid in improving its 2025 defense.

This could prove to be the defining moment in Ohio State's defensive strategy, and another chapter in the dynamic world of college football recruiting.