In the small town of Clemmons, North Carolina, there’s a big name making waves in high school football: Pierre Dean. At 6-foot-5 and over 300 pounds, this West Forsyth High School standout is turning heads as one of the top offensive linemen in the class of 2026. Ranked No. 50 overall and No. 3 among interior offensive linemen by Rivals, Pierre’s not just a big guy with big dreams—he’s a kid from a tight-knit community who’s got the heart and hustle to match his size.

A Big Man with Bigger Potential

If you’ve ever seen Pierre Dean on the field, you know he’s a force. Picture a guy who looks like he could bench press a truck, but moves like he’s chasing a wide receiver. That’s Pierre. He’s got the kind of size that makes defensive linemen second-guess their life choices, but what really sets him apart is how he plays—smart, tough, and always one step ahead. Whether he’s pancaking a defender in the run game or stonewalling a blitz to protect his quarterback, Pierre’s game tape is a highlight reel of dominance.

Coaches and scouts can’t stop talking about his versatility. Pierre could line up at guard, center, or even tackle, and he’d still be the guy you notice first. He’s got quick feet for pulling around the edge and enough strength to anchor against the biggest, baddest defensive tackles. It’s no wonder why he’s being compared to some of the best linemen who’ve gone from high school to the pros.

The Recruiting Spotlight

Right now, the college football world is buzzing about where Pierre will end up, and Ohio State seems to be the team with the inside track. The Buckeyes, who’ve churned out NFL stars like Paris Johnson Jr. and Dawand Jones, have been all in on Pierre, and he’s feeling the love. Recruiting insiders like Sam Spiegelman and Steve Wiltfong have dropped Crystal Ball predictions pointing to Ohio State, and it’s easy to see why. The Buckeyes’ offensive line coach, Justin Frye, has a knack for turning raw talent into NFL-ready pros, and Pierre fits the mold perfectly.

But it’s not just Ohio State knocking on his door. Other top programs have taken notice, and with official visits coming up in the summer of 2025, Pierre’s got some big decisions ahead. Still, there’s something special about the way Ohio State’s been building their 2026 class—already ranked third in the nation by 247Sports—and Pierre could be the missing piece to make their offensive line unstoppable.

More Than Just a Football Player

What makes Pierre so easy to root for isn’t just his talent—it’s who he is off the field. Talk to anyone at West Forsyth, and they’ll tell you he’s the kind of kid who lights up a room. He’s a leader who’s stayed loyal to his hometown team, grinding it out with his high school buddies instead of jumping to a prep school for more exposure. That says a lot about him. He’s the guy who’s always working on his craft, whether it’s studying film or putting in extra reps in the weight room, but he’s also the teammate who’s got your back, win or lose.

Pierre’s got that rare mix of grit and smarts. He reads defenses like a veteran, picking up on little tells that let him shut down blitzes before they even start. And when it’s time to open a hole for his running back? Let’s just say he’s not the guy you want to be standing in front of.

What’s Next for Pierre?

As Pierre gears up for his senior year at West Forsyth, the stakes are high. A big 2025 season could rocket him even higher in the recruiting rankings, and he’s got his eyes on leading his team to a state championship. Off the field, he’s got a big choice to make about his future, and every college football fan in the country is watching to see where he’ll land.

For Ohio State fans, the thought of Pierre joining forces with other 2026 studs like four-star tackle Maxwell Riley is enough to get hearts racing. If he picks the Buckeyes, he could be the cornerstone of an offensive line built to dominate the Big Ten and chase national titles. But wherever he goes, one thing’s for sure: Pierre Dean is the kind of player who’s going to leave a mark.

A Star in the Making

Pierre Dean isn’t just another recruit—he’s a kid from Clemmons with a dream, a work ethic, and a whole lot of talent. He’s the guy who grew up playing in the North Carolina dirt, and now he’s got a shot to play on the biggest stages in college football. Whether he’s paving the way for a game-winning touchdown or protecting his quarterback’s blind side, Pierre’s got the tools to be a star. And if he keeps grinding like he always has, don’t be surprised if you’re cheering his name in the NFL one day.

Picture a 6-foot-10 Nigerian youngster who didn't pick up a basketball until he was 13, after two years of kicking a soccer ball around, getting ready for his debut as an Ohio State Buckeye in 2025. That is Josh Ojianwuna, ex-Baylor big man, and he's boarding the plane with his trademark high energy, relentless rebounding, and a hustle-bustle heart to join the Buckeyes. On May 7, 2025, Josh went official with his move to Columbus, and Buckeye fans are eagerly waiting. It isn't a roster move—it's a tribute to grit, development, and a man chasing his dreams in a new community.

From Baylor to Buckeye: Josh’s Journey

Josh’s three years at Baylor were like a coming-of-age movie. He started as a bench sparkplug, a raw talent with a knack for dunking anything near the rim. By his junior year in 2024-25, he was a starter, owning the paint with 7.4 points and 6.4 rebounds a game in 23 starts. The dude was a walking highlight reel, shooting an unreal 77.4% from the field—mostly thunderous dunks and gritty putbacks. If he’d taken enough shots to qualify, he’d have topped the nation’s shooting charts. One game against Arizona State, he went off for 12 points and a career-high 17 rebounds, showing he could dominate on both ends.
But life threw a curveball. On February 8, 2025, a knee injury against UCF cut his season short, requiring surgery and sidelining him for Baylor’s stretch run. It was a tough blow for a guy who’d worked so hard to carve out his role. Still, Josh didn’t sulk. He hit the transfer portal, looking for a fresh start, and Ohio State felt like the perfect fit. As he told The Columbus Dispatch, chats with Buckeye big man Christoph Tilly and former OSU star E.J. Liddell sealed the deal. They raved about the program’s family vibe and Coach Jake Diebler’s vision for a tough, versatile frontcourt. For Josh, it was a chance to keep growing—and maybe dunk on some Big Ten rivals.

Why Ohio State Needs Josh

Let’s be real: Ohio State’s frontcourt needed a boost. After losing Aaron Bradshaw to Memphis and Sean Stewart to the portal, the Buckeyes got pushed around in the paint last season. Rebounding was a struggle, and they lacked the muscle to match the Big Ten’s bruising bigs. Enter Josh, a 230-pound force who crashes the boards like it’s his job and finishes lobs with authority. He’s the fourth transfer to join OSU this spring, alongside Santa Clara’s Christoph Tilly, Wright State’s Brandon Noel, and Indiana’s Gabe Cupps. Together, they’re giving Diebler’s squad a new edge.
Josh’s game is all about the little things that win big games. He’s not out there launching threes or hunting highlight plays—he’s battling for rebounds, swatting shots, and turning missed shots into easy buckets. NBA Draft Room called him a “big man who does all the dirty work,” and that’s exactly what Ohio State craves. Whether he’s starting next to Tilly or coming off the bench to spell him, Josh’s energy is going to make life miserable for opponents.

The Road Back from Injury

Here’s the thing: Josh’s knee injury is still a question mark. He’s been grinding through rehab, but there’s no firm timeline on when he’ll be 100%. Ohio State’s staff is playing it smart, giving him time to heal and even floating the idea of a redshirt year if he needs it. With the NCAA possibly tweaking rules to allow a fifth year of eligibility, there’s wiggle room for Josh to take his time. Buckeye fans are crossing their fingers he’ll be ready to roll by November 2025, bringing that Baylor swagger to Value City Arena.

From Nigeria to Columbus: A Personal Story

Josh’s path to Ohio State is straight-up inspiring. Born in Asaba, Nigeria, he grew up playing soccer until a basketball coach spotted his height and begged him to try hoops. On his second day of practice, he threw down a dunk, and just like that, a star was born. He honed his game at NBA Academy Africa and later at the NBA Global Academy in Australia, catching the eye of scouts as a top-150 recruit in 2022. At Baylor, he wore number 17 to honor his dad, who passed away in 2017—a quiet reminder of the personal drive behind his game.
Now, in Columbus, Josh is writing the next chapter. He’s not just here to fill a roster spot; he’s chasing a legacy. Some draft analysts saw him as a second-round NBA pick before his injury, and a big year at Ohio State could put him back on that radar. More than that, he’s got a chance to help a hungry Buckeye team make noise in the Big Ten and maybe even crash the NCAA Tournament.

Buckeye Nation’s New Favorite Big Man

The vibe on X is electric. Fans and insiders like @OSUHoopsInsider and @TheSchottPod are hyping Josh as the “missing piece” for Ohio State’s frontcourt. They love his hustle, his efficiency, and the fact that he plays like he’s got something to prove. Sure, there are challenges—blending a roster with multiple transfers isn’t easy, and Josh’s health is a wildcard. The Buckeyes might still add another piece, with Texas Tech’s Darion Williams rumored to be on their radar. But for now, Josh’s commitment feels like a game-changer.
Imagine the scene: it’s a packed house at the Schott, Ohio State’s battling a Big Ten heavyweight, and Josh soars for a putback dunk that shakes the rim. That’s the energy he’s bringing. From a soccer kid in Nigeria to a Baylor standout to a Buckeye on a mission, Josh Ojianwuna’s story is one to root for. Here’s to him lighting up Columbus in 2025—and maybe throwing down a few more dunks along the way.

College Football’s New Scholarship Rules and Ohio State’s Big Plans for 2025

College football is getting a major shake-up for the 2025-26 season, and it’s got everyone buzzing—coaches, players, and fans alike. Thanks to a landmark NCAA settlement, the old rules about scholarships are out the window, and teams now have more freedom to support their athletes financially. For Ohio State, one of the biggest names in the game, this means a chance to rethink their roster while keeping their eyes on another national championship. Let’s dive into what these changes mean, how they’re shaking up the sport, and what the Buckeyes are planning for their squad this fall.

A New Era for Scholarships and Rosters

For years, college football teams in the FBS could offer up to 85 full scholarships—no more, no less. Every scholarship player got a full ride, and teams filled out their rosters with walk-ons, often hitting 120 or more players total. But starting this summer, the House v. NCAA settlement flips the script. Instead of a scholarship cap, teams now face a roster limit of 105 players. And here’s the game-changer: those 105 players can get full or partial scholarships, giving schools a lot more wiggle room to spread the love (and the money).

This shift comes from making football an “equivalency sport,” like baseball or track, where coaches can divvy up scholarships however they see fit. Want to give your star quarterback a full ride and a backup lineman a partial one? Go for it. The catch? With only 105 roster spots, teams have to trim down from the massive squads we’re used to. That means fewer walk-ons and some tough calls during preseason camp. Plus, with schools now able to pay athletes directly for their name, image, and likeness (NIL), Ohio State’s budgeting $20.5 million for NIL deals in 2025-26. It’s a whole new ballgame, and programs are figuring out how to play it.

Ohio State’s Game Plan

Fresh off their 2024 national championship, the Ohio State Buckeyes are ready to tackle these changes head-on. Coach Ryan Day and his staff have a plan: they’re aiming to have about 90 players on scholarship for the 2025 season, according to Eleven Warriors. That’s less than the max 105, and it’s a deliberate choice that’s got fans and analysts talking.

Why stop at 90? For one, Ohio State loves its walk-on tradition. Those scrappy, no-scholarship players who grind it out in practice are a big part of the team’s culture, and Day might be saving some roster spots for them. It’s a way to keep the Buckeye spirit alive while giving underdogs a shot to earn their place. Another reason could be the budget. Ohio State’s athletic department is loaded, spending nearly $275 million in 2022-23, but adding scholarships across all 36 of their sports—91 new ones, to be exact—plus those hefty NIL payments is no small feat. By keeping football scholarships at 90, they might be spreading resources to other sports or saving up for partial scholarships to stretch their dollars further.

Then there’s the strategy angle. Ohio State’s losing some big names in 2025—think defensive ends Jack Sawyer and J.T. Tuimoloau, wideout Emeka Egbuka, running back TreVeyon Henderson, and linebacker Cody Simon, who are either out of eligibility or headed to the NFL. But the Buckeyes aren’t sweating it. With stars like quarterback Julian Sayin and safety Caleb Downs coming back, plus a killer recruiting class, they’re reloading, not rebuilding. By sticking to 90 scholarships, Day might be leaving room to snag a few game-changing transfers in the offseason, keeping the roster lean and mean for another title run.

What This Means for the Buckeyes and Beyond

Ohio State’s plan to go with 90 scholarships shows they’re playing chess, not checkers. The new rules let them tailor scholarships to fit their needs—maybe a full ride for a star recruit, a partial one for a promising walk-on, or a little extra for a veteran who’s earned it. It’s a smart move for a program with the cash and clout to make it work. But not every school’s in the same boat. Big dogs like Ohio State, with deep pockets and top-tier NIL collectives, can max out scholarships and NIL deals. Smaller programs? They might struggle to keep up, which could widen the gap between the haves and have-nots.

For players, it’s a mixed bag. More scholarships mean more chances to get financial help, which is huge for kids who might not have landed a full ride before. But the 105-player cap means fewer spots overall, and some guys could get squeezed out. Recruits are already hearing they need to stay tight with coaches to lock in their spot, as Yahoo Sports noted last fall. And walk-ons, the heart and soul of many teams, might see fewer opportunities unless schools use partial scholarships to keep them around.

For Buckeye fans, this is an exciting time. Ohio State’s not just adapting to the new rules—they’re looking to dominate with them. A 90-scholarship roster packed with talent, a few savvy transfers, and that championship swagger? It’s a recipe for another deep playoff run. But the changes also spark bigger questions about college football’s future. Will walk-on stories become rarer? Will smaller schools get priced out? Only time will tell.

Picture this: a 6-foot-6, 265-pound defensive end shooting off the line, eyes locked on the quarterback, ready to make a game-changing play. That’s North Carolina phenom Beau Atkinson, and his name is already making Buckeye Nation buzz with interest. As the 2025 college football season approaches, word is gathering steam that Atkinson will trade his Tar Heel blue for Ohio State’s scarlet and gray. If he does, he could be the spark the Buckeyes need to stay in championship contention. So who is Beau Atkinson, and why is his potential transfer so important? Let’s find out.

A Hometown Hero at North Carolina

Beau Atkinson isn’t just a football player; he’s a North Carolina kid through and through. Hailing from Raleigh, he grew up dreaming of making plays under the bright lights. At UNC, he did just that. Over two seasons, he suited up for 26 games, racking up 54 tackles, 17 tackles for loss, 11 sacks, and a forced fumble. In 2024, he was a force, leading the Tar Heels with 7.5 sacks and 12 tackles for loss. His standout moment? A monster game against Florida State, where he brought down the quarterback 3.5 times and earned ACC Defensive Lineman of the Week honors. Fans in Chapel Hill still talk about that one.

Beau’s not just about stats, though. Watch him play, and you see a guy who’s all heart—relentless, physical, and always in the right spot. Pro Football Focus gave him a solid 77 defensive grade in 2024, with strong marks in both pass rushing and run defense. Whether he’s collapsing the pocket or chasing down a scrambling QB, Atkinson’s the kind of player who makes offenses rethink their game plan.

Why Ohio State’s Calling

So, why would a guy like Atkinson, who’s already a star at home, consider leaving? For one, things shook up at UNC. When Mack Brown stepped down and Bill Belichick took over, it sent shockwaves through the program. Several players, including Beau, hit the transfer portal, looking for the right fit. That’s when Ohio State came knocking.

The Buckeyes need help on the defensive line, and they need it bad. Their 2024 stars—Jack Sawyer, JT Tuimoloau, and Tyleik Williams—are off to the NFL, leaving some big shoes to fill. Coach Ryan Day didn’t sugarcoat it after the spring game: “We’ve got to look at it,” he said, talking about the defensive front. Enter Beau Atkinson, who rolled into Columbus for a visit on April 21, 2025, turning heads and sparking hope among Buckeye fans.

Imagine Atkinson lining up under the watchful eye of Larry Johnson, Ohio State’s legendary defensive line coach. Johnson’s got a knack for turning raw talent into NFL draft picks, and Beau’s got the tools—size, speed, and a motor that doesn’t quit. With two years of eligibility left, he could slide right into a starting role or make waves as a key rotational guy. Plus, his versatility means he could rush from the edge or even kick inside for a few snaps. It’s the kind of flexibility that makes coaches drool.

The Transfer Portal Rollercoaster

The transfer portal is like the wild west of college football, and Atkinson’s one of the hottest names out there. After entering the portal on April 16, he didn’t just sit back. He visited Georgia, another team hungry for edge rushers, and had Buckeye fans sweating for a minute. But word on the street—and by street, I mean X—is that Ohio State’s pulling ahead. On3’s Pete Nakos and Steve Wiltfong are predicting he’ll pick the Buckeyes, especially after Georgia landed another edge rusher. Still, Beau’s keeping his cards close, and he might take a couple more visits before deciding.

What Beau Could Mean for the Buckeyes

If Atkinson says yes to Ohio State, it’s hard to overstate what he’d bring. The Buckeyes are coming off a 2024 national championship, and the pressure’s on to keep that momentum. Their defensive line was a sack machine last season, with 53 total, including 21.5 from Sawyer and Tuimoloau. Beau’s 7.5 sacks and 10 quarterback pressures in 2024 show he’s ready to step up and keep quarterbacks on edge.

But it’s not just about the numbers. Atkinson’s got that dog in him—you know, the kind of player who sets the tone. He’s physical, scrappy, and doesn’t back down, whether he’s stuffing the run or hunting QBs. That’s the Ohio State way, and fans are already dreaming of him tearing it up in the Shoe. Plus, with two years to play, he’s got time to grow into a leader and maybe even catch the NFL’s eye.

The Road Ahead

Here’s the catch: nothing’s set in stone. The transfer portal’s a whirlwind, with over 600 players looking for new homes this spring. Georgia’s still lurking, and other programs like Texas or Tennessee could jump in. Ohio State’s also chasing other defensive linemen, like Syracuse’s Maraad Watson, to round out the roster. With the portal window slamming shut on April 25, 2025, Day and his crew are working overtime to seal the deal.

For Beau, Ohio State’s a chance to chase titles and learn from the best. Playing in front of 100,000 screaming fans, battling Michigan, and maybe hoisting another trophy? That’s the kind of stage most players only dream of. And for Buckeye fans, landing Atkinson would be a sign that their team’s not just reloading—it’s building something special.

Waiting for the Call

As of April 23, 2025, Beau hasn’t made his choice, but the vibes are good in Columbus. X is buzzing with fans posting “🔥” and “#GoBucks” under every Atkinson update. His visit to Ohio State felt like a turning point, and now it’s a waiting game. Will he be wearing scarlet and gray when the Buckeyes take on Texas to open the season on August 30? Buckeye Nation’s got its fingers crossed.

If Atkinson joins the Buckeyes, he’s not just filling a spot—he’s bringing the kind of energy that can define a season. So, here’s to hoping Beau Atkinson’s ready to call Columbus home and write the next chapter of his football story in the heart of Ohio.

Ohio State football just landed a massive recruiting win this week. On Monday, March 31, 2025, Blaine Bradford—a five-star safety from Baton Rouge, Louisiana—gave his commitment to the Buckeyes. This kid’s a huge get, ranked as one of the top players in the 2026 class, and Ohio State beating out schools like LSU and Texas for him feels like a victory lap after their national championship run in 2024.

A Louisiana Kid with Big Talent

Blaine’s tearing it up at Catholic High School down in Baton Rouge. At 6-foot-1 and 205 pounds, he’s got the perfect mix of speed, toughness, and smarts to play safety. The folks at 247Sports have him pegged as the No. 1 safety and No. 23 overall player in his class, and it’s not hard to see why. He’s not just a football standout either—he’s a beast in baseball and track, too. That kind of all-around athleticism has coaches losing their minds.

Recruiting guru Gabe Brooks can’t stop talking about him. “Blaine’s built solid,” Gabe told me. “He’s the kind of safety who reads a play in a flash and comes flying in to stop the run.” Check out his highlights, and you’ll see—he’s always around the ball and hits like a truck.

Here’s the kicker: his brother Jacob just signed with LSU as a defensive back in the 2025 class. So, it’s pretty wild that Blaine’s packing his bags for Columbus instead of staying home with the Tigers.

How Ohio State Pulled It Off

This wasn’t a walk in the park for Ohio State. LSU had the hometown edge, Texas was riding high after their 2024 playoff push, and Oregon was flashing some serious NIL cash. Blaine even said LSU felt like a natural fit at first, with his brother there and their stacked 2025 class. But the Buckeyes wouldn’t let up.

It all started last summer when Blaine showed out at an Ohio State camp and earned an offer. He kept swinging by Columbus, catching games and kicking it with safeties coach Matt Guerrieri and secondary coach Tim Walton. Those visits won him over. “Ohio State’s where I can grow the most,” Blaine told Hayes Fawcett from On3 after making it official. On X, he just posted “BIA”—“Best in America,” the Ohio State secondary’s motto—with a couple of buckeye emojis. Short and sweet, but it says everything.

What It Means for the Buckeyes

Blaine’s commitment is a game-changer for Ohio State’s 2026 class. They’ve already got eight guys locked in, including five-star receiver Chris Henry Jr., and now Blaine’s on board as their second big-time talent. Toss in four-star corner Jakob Weatherspoon, and you can tell they’re dead-set on building a nasty defense.

For Coach Guerrieri, this is personal. He landed four-star safety Faheem Delane last year, and now he’s got Blaine—the top safety in 2026. With star Caleb Downs probably NFL-bound after 2025, Blaine could step right in as a freshman. He’s got that kind of upside.

Ohio State’s not slowing down either. The same weekend Blaine committed, they had other big names like No. 1 running back Savion Hiter and linebacker Simeon Caldwell on campus. Three top-300 commits in March? That’s what winning a title gets you—check out the full 2026 recruiting rundown to see how stacked they’re getting.

What’s Next?

Blaine’s locked in for now, but recruiting’s a wild ride. LSU and Texas aren’t going to just shrug and walk away—they’ve got visits lined up with him this summer. Still, Blaine’s dropping hints he might be done looking. “They win at Ohio State, and that’s huge,” he told Rivals. “Coach G and Coach Day are awesome. I love how fired up Coach G gets.”

For Ohio State fans, this is worth celebrating. Pulling a five-star kid from Baton Rouge—practically LSU’s backyard—is a power move. It’s like when they grabbed Jeremiah Smith from Florida or Devin Sanchez from Texas. The Buckeyes are showing they can recruit anywhere.

Blaine’s got the tools to be a star—maybe an All-Big Ten guy or even an NFL draft pick down the line. For now, Buckeye fans are just stoked to have him. Like Blaine said: “26’s, let’s run it up.” With him on board, Ohio State’s off to one heck of a start.

Yesterday, March 26, 2025, Ohio State football got some exciting news: offensive lineman Tucker Smith from Arizona said “yes” to the Buckeyes for the 2026 class. The kid announced it himself on social media, and you can feel the energy in Columbus picking up. This is just the latest win for head coach Ryan Day and his new offensive line guru, Tyler Bowen, who’s been on fire lately.

Meet Tucker Smith

Tucker’s a big dude—6 feet 5 inches, 280 pounds—and he’s coming out of Sandra Day O’Connor High School in Phoenix. He’s a three-star recruit according to the 247Sports composite, sitting at No. 844 overall, No. 72 among interior offensive linemen, and No. 12 in Arizona. Some sites like On3 haven’t ranked him yet, but word on the street is he’s got the kind of upside that could bump him up as he keeps growing into his frame. He’s played all over the offensive line in high school—center, guard, tackle, you name it. Most folks think he’ll end up inside at guard or center in college, and it’s easy to see why. He’s quick on his feet, loves mixing it up in the trenches, and plays with a mean streak. Some are even saying he reminds them of Ohio State’s Luke Montgomery—a guy who could turn into a four-star talent once he gets into a college weight room and packs on some muscle.

How He Ended Up a Buckeye

Tyler Bowen’s Hot Streak

What Tucker Brings to the Table

What’s Next

Few tales of college football recruiting come so draped in local pride as one about Maxwell Riley, a leading offensive tackle talent out of Avon Lake, Ohio, regarding his 2026 class thoughts on the Ohio State Buckeyes.

Interest and Offers End

His name has been hot on the boards of many collegiate programs since inception, but right at the center of it is Ohio State, his home-state pride. First-year offensive line recruit Maxwell Riley visited Ohio State for its initial spring practice of 2023 and left Columbus with an offer from the Buckeyes, one of the first high school offensive line prospects in the class of 2026 with a Buckeye offer. That early offer underlined how much the Buckeyes' coaching staff thought of him, not just as a talented player, but as a priority for their future lineup.

Building Relationships

The relationship between Riley and Ohio State has only gotten closer with time. He has visited Columbus several times, taking in game days and practices and even going so far as to celebrate with the Buckeyes after their 2025 National Championship. These visits have placed him in a position where he can know on a personal level the head coach, Ryan Day, and the offensive line coach, Justin Frye. The interactions that have been pivotal with him often referring to the intensity and focus that the Ohio State offensive line gives as impressive, while the commitment of the coaching staff to players' development remains key.

Recruiting Journey

The journey of recruitment about Riley has showcased his talent and potential. The options have not been in short supply, with Riley being considered one of the top-rated offensive tackles in the nation and the second-best prospect in Ohio for the 2026 class. Amongst the power programs in his recruitment list were Alabama, Florida State, Michigan State, Missouri, Oklahoma, and Clemson. But with multiple visits to Ohio State, and a program history steeped in the tradition of churning out NFL-caliber offensive linemen, the Buckeyes have emerged as a clear leader.

Decision Time Nears

With his senior year of high school in full bloom for Riley, his college decision isn't getting any farther away. The coaching staff at Ohio State means something to him-or at least it should if he is taking developed players to national championships. Of course, Crystal Ball Predictions via social media platforms like X also have it going big toward Ohio State.

What Ohio State Offers

The reason Ohio State stands out is not just because it is a top program but also because of the legacy-a place where offensive linemen often get molded into professional athletes. With idols like Orlando Pace, Riley knows what the path from Columbus to the NFL looks like. Recent national championship success for the Buckeyes only furthers the appeal: promises of not just playing but winning at the highest level.

Max Klare, the extra talented tight end out of Purdue University, moved his commitment to The Ohio State University, it was announced on December 23, 2024. He is from Cincinnati, Ohio, and attended St. Xavier High School. Klare certainly brings a load of talent and experience to the Buckeyes.

Background and Performance at Purdue:

Klare was ranked as the No. 1 tight end in the NCAA transfer portal by ESPN. A versatile weapon at tight end who was one of the more touted transfers this cycle, Klare led Purdue in catches, receiving yards and receiving touchdowns in 2024 with 51 receptions for 685 yards and four touchdowns. He was good enough to be considered the best tight end looking through the transfer portal, which speaks volumes of his worth to any team looking to fill up their offensive roster.

Reason for Transfer and Choice of Ohio State:

A number of factors influenced Klare's choice to go with Ohio State. Among them was the possibility of further development with head coach Ryan Day, who is renowned for sending players to the NFL. Klare said Day's track record of developing players was one of the main reasons he decided to commit to the Buckeyes. He also said he liked how offensive coordinator Chip Kelly and tight ends coach Keenan Bailey outlined how he would be used in the offense. Klare said he's also excited about the opportunity to compete against and learn from Ohio State's five-star safety Caleb Downs, which he thinks will elevate his game.

Impact on Ohio State's Team:

Ohio State has been active in the transfer portal, taking commitments from several players over the past few weeks, including Klare. He adds depth to an already talented tight end room, complementing players like Will Kacmarek, who is known as a blocker, and other players at the position. Klare's receiving skills are likely to add a new dimension to Ohio State's offensive plays, particularly with the loss of some key players to the NFL draft. His experience of having played in the Big Ten Conference should also ease his transition.

As for names that popped up early in discussions about 2026 recruitment, there’s one – Jaeden Ricketts: a wide receiver who hails from Pataskala, Ohio and has received early popularity among recruiters.

Early Interest from Ohio State

Jaeden Ricketts is another Ohio State offer who has interest in the Buckeyes at a high level. He is planning to be at Penn State's game today. This young athlete has been turning heads with his impressive performances and dedication to the sport.

I recall when I witnessed Jaeden for the first time. A chilly autumn evening it was, and the bleachers were full of excitement and anticipation. You could sense a change in atmosphere the moment he walked onto that pitch. He had this presence that commanded attention, and boy, did he deliver. With every catch and sprint, he showcased not just his talent but his passion for the game. It was clear that Jaeden was destined for greatness.

When we fast forward to now, it becomes evident that Jaeden’s journey is only beginning. The recruiting process of Ohio State is strict and they have given him an offer already. This would not be easy given the level of competition as well as Buckeye’s high standards. Jaeden is also interested in Ohio State which makes the communication between him and their coaches especially Brian Hartline who oversees the receivers department, happen often.

Exploring Other Opportunities

But Jaeden isn't just focused on Ohio State. He's also exploring other opportunities and experiences. In fact, he's planning to attend Penn State's game today. This visit is part of his broader strategy to understand different programs and find the best fit for his future. It's a smart move, given the importance of making an informed decision when it comes to college athletics.

Other Schools in the Mix

Jaeden's talent hasn't gone unnoticed by other top programs either. Schools like Michigan, Notre Dame, and Alabama have shown significant interest in him. Each of these programs offers a unique set of opportunities and challenges, and Jaeden is taking the time to evaluate them carefully.

- Michigan: Michigan is a hard place to resist with its great academic achievements, sign stealing, and solid tradition in football. This commitment looks challenging as Jaeden receives regular calls from the Wolverines' coaching staff to discuss about what they have in mind for him.

- Notre Dame: With its storied history and emphasis on character and academics, Notre Dame presents a holistic approach to college athletics. Jaeden has expressed admiration for the program's values and the supportive community.

- Alabama: Known for being a giant in college football, Alabama has a fierce atmosphere and has been recognized for producing NFL player talents. Jaeden is being considered by the Crimson Tide because of his ability to perform more than average at an elite level.

Big news for the Ohio State Buckeyes! They just landed another awesome defensive lineman for their 2025 class. Jarquez Carter, a super talented player from Florida, decided to join the Buckeyes today. This is a bit of a surprise, as Miami, UCF, and Penn State were also after him. Looks like Ohio State is on a roll!

The Legend of Larry Johnson

Carter's decision was heavily influenced by legendary defensive line coach Larry Johnson. Johnson's reputation as a master developer of NFL-caliber talent has drawn top recruits to Columbus for years. Carter himself cited Johnson as the main reason behind his choice, saying, "He's a legend."

A Youth Movement on the D-Line

At 6-foot-2 and 284 pounds, Carter brings power and agility to the interior of Ohio State's defensive line. He joins fellow tackles Trajen Odom and Maxwell Roy in what promises to be a formidable unit. With the departure of all four starters after the 2024 season, including standouts like Jack Sawyer and J.T. Tuimoloau, Johnson needs fresh bodies to step up.

A Personal Connection

So how'd Ohio State land another top recruit? It all started with a visit in June. Jarquez Carter, a super talented defensive lineman from Florida, went to Ohio State for a few days (from the 19th to the 21st of June, to be exact). During that visit, he hung out with the players, got to feel the electric atmosphere of the Horseshoe stadium, and totally pictured himself rocking the scarlet and gray. It was a lightbulb moment for him – he knew he wanted to be part of something special at Ohio State.