Ohio State is on an absolute recruiting tear — and it’s turning heads across the college football landscape. From five-star hauls to key positional targets, the Buckeyes are building what could become the No. 1 class in the nation, and the latest episode of the Buckeye Talk podcast breaks down exactly how and why this run is happening — and what it means for the program long term.
Here’s a detailed recap and analysis of what the podcast reveals about Ohio State’s recruiting momentum and the storm it’s brewing in Columbus.
🔥 THE COMMITMENT RUN: DOMINANCE ON DISPLAY
The Buckeye Talk crew — led by Doug Lesmerises, Nathan Baird, and Stephen Means — wasted no time highlighting the ridiculous stretch of commitments Ohio State has secured in recent weeks.
Some key names mentioned:
- ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Devin Sanchez (CB) – Elite defensive back, one of the top players nationally.
- ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Zahir Mathis (EDGE) – Explosive edge rusher with SEC offers who chose OSU over Alabama.
- ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Bo Jackson (RB) – A dynamic back who combines speed and vision — and yes, that’s really his name.
- ⭐⭐⭐⭐ London Merritt (DL) – Physical and versatile, a future anchor in the trenches.
- ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Blake Woodby (CB) – A lockdown corner with elite instincts.
With more announcements expected soon, the Buckeyes are stacking up talent at every key position, especially on defense — which was a priority after last year’s playoff loss.
📈 WHY IT’S HAPPENING: THE CORE FACTORS
According to the podcast, Ohio State’s recent surge is the result of a perfect storm of factors, including:
- Continuity and Trust in Ryan Day’s Staff
Despite hot-seat rumors last season, Ryan Day has reasserted control of the program, and top recruits are buying in — especially after the hiring of new position coaches like Matt Guerrieri (safeties) and Tim Walton (DBs), who are earning major praise on the trail. - NIL Game Stepping Up
Ohio State’s collectives have reportedly gotten more aggressive and more strategic in how they target recruits — not just with money, but with long-term development and branding pitches. - Defensive Identity Rising
DC Jim Knowles has been selling a “pro-style defense with real NFL development,” and it’s working. Edge rushers, corners, and linebackers are flocking to OSU again — reminiscent of the Urban Meyer/early Day era. - Early Playing Time & Proven Development
Recent OSU NFL draftees — like Marvin Harrison Jr., CJ Stroud, and Paris Johnson Jr. — provide proof that if you come to Columbus, you get developed and drafted.
🧠 ANALYSIS: STRATEGIC VICTORIES OVER RIVALS
A major point of the podcast was how strategic these wins are, particularly against SEC powers. The Buckeyes are:
- Out-recruiting Alabama, Georgia, and Michigan on several blue-chip defenders.
- Flipping the script on narratives that Big Ten programs can’t match SEC depth or NIL flexibility.
- Showing that recruits believe OSU will contend for national titles in the new 12-team playoff era.
They also note: these commitments are regional and national — from Texas, Florida, Georgia, and the DMV — meaning OSU is dominating outside its footprint, a classic sign of a powerhouse.
🗣️ QUOTES FROM THE PODCAST
Doug Lesmerises:
“This is what it looks like when Ohio State reminds people they’re a national brand. Not just Big Ten good — CFP good.”
Stephen Means:
“They’re not waiting for Michigan to slip. They’re attacking. The staff isn’t being reactive. It’s proactive, aggressive, and relentless.”
Nathan Baird:
“What separates this class so far? No holes. They’re not just loading at WR like past years. It’s edge, corner, backfield — everywhere.”
🔮 WHAT’S NEXT: EVEN MORE COMING?
The Buckeye Talk crew teased that more commits are on the horizon, including:
- Potential flips from other major programs
- A five-star WR leaning toward Columbus
- A top-10 overall QB prospect who’s “quietly close” to making his decision
They also hinted at Ohio State closing strong in the 2025 cycle, potentially finishing with a top-3 or even No. 1 class if the current pace continues.
🚨 FINAL WORD: BUCKEYES MEAN BUSINESS
If there was any concern that Michigan’s recent rise or SEC recruiting pressure would derail Ohio State, the Buckeyes just sent a clear message:
Not only are they back — they’re coming for everything.
This recruiting run isn’t just about stars — it’s about strategic power-building, defensive resurgence, and a staff that’s playing chess while others play checkers.
As the Buckeye Talk podcast puts it:
“Ohio State isn’t chasing anyone anymore. They’re setting the pace.”
And if this continues? The rest of college football — from Ann Arbor to Athens — better take notice.
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