Ohio State is vying for a spot at the top by recruiting the talent from their own backyard. The Buckeyes have been cleaning up across the board in multiple positions, with 2024 quarterback Air Noland choosing to commit to Ohio State recently. The team needs to focus on adding strength to their defensive strategy, and a new wave of talent from Ohio may be able to provide the boost they need.
Aaron Scott, a Springfield native and Ohio’s top player in 2024, has trimmed his offers list down to 12 possible schools. Ohio State is a top-tier option among other elite programs including Michigan, Notre Dame, Penn State, and USC. Scott ranks as the No. 1 player in Ohio and the No. 36 overall player in the class, according to 247Sports. The Buckeyes have seized momentum, owning both of the Crystal Ball predictions for Scott.
Bryce West is another top Ohio State target. The Glenville product currently holds three Crystal Balls, and analyst Josh Edwards gave him his latest prediction after recent events. West is the No. 1 player in Ohio and No. 49 player overall on the 247Sports Composite.
The Buckeyes have been seeing encouraging reactions from other prospects. Five-star WR Joshisa Trader has shown excitement about what the Buckeyes have been able to accomplish. He threw eyeball emojis towards the decision of a potential future quarterback in Columbus.
Ohio State has been in pursuit of the finest talent in their own backyard, and it shows in the rankings. The 2024 class now ranks fourth in the country. Although there are still gaps to be filled on the team’s offensive line and in the receiver and RB positions, the Buckeyes have been turning their attention towards the defense with the latest run of talent.