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.

EUGENE, Ore. — Imagine signing a big contract, only to get a better job offer months later. That’s exactly what happened to Carlos Locklyn, now Ohio State’s running backs coach, who’s caught in a messy legal fight with his former employer, the University of Oregon. The Ducks are suing Locklyn for $400,000, claiming he bailed on his contract when he jumped ship to Columbus in April 2024. The lawsuit, filed in Lane County Circuit Court, has sparked heated debates among fans, reignited the Ohio State-Oregon rivalry, and left Locklyn in a tough spot as he tries to focus on coaching.

A Dream Job Turns Sour

Carlos Locklyn, a 47-year-old coach with a knack for turning running backs into stars, was living the dream at Oregon. For two years, he worked under head coach Dan Lanning, helping the Ducks’ ground game soar. Running back Bucky Irving racked up back-to-back 1,000-yard seasons, and Oregon’s rushing attack was among the nation’s best. In February 2024, Locklyn signed a shiny new two-year contract extension worth $400,000 a year, locking him in through January 2026. It felt like a perfect fit.

But then Ohio State came calling. The Buckeyes needed a new running backs coach after Tony Alford left for Michigan, and Locklyn couldn’t resist. The job offered a massive raise—$650,000 a year, more than double his Oregon salary—plus the chance to coach at a national powerhouse fresh off a 2024 national championship. On April 1, 2024, just two months after signing his extension, Locklyn packed his bags for Columbus.

That’s when the trouble started. Oregon’s contract had a catch: if Locklyn left after April 1, he owed half his remaining salary, roughly $400,000, as a buyout. Locklyn thought he had it covered. He sent Oregon a personal check for $200,000 in May 2024, believing Ohio State’s contract, which reportedly covered another $200,000, would square things up. Oregon wasn’t having it. They sent the check back in July, saying Locklyn still owed the full amount. Now, they’re taking him to court.

The Lawsuit: Money, Loyalty, and Hurt Feelings

Oregon’s lawsuit paints a picture of a university feeling betrayed. They invested in Locklyn, giving him resources, professional growth opportunities, and a hefty raise. When he left, it threw their spring practice and recruiting plans into chaos. They had to scramble to hire Ra’Shaad Samples from Arizona State, shelling out $180,000 to cover his buyout. The Ducks’ legal team argues Locklyn’s refusal to pay the full $400,000 is a clear breach of contract, and they’re seeking the money plus 9% interest.

Locklyn, though, isn’t backing down. His lawyer, John Berg, says the coach did everything right. “Carlos sent a check to cover what he owed,” Berg told The Oregonian. “Oregon’s twisting the contract, and we’re confident the court will see it our way.” Locklyn’s camp insists the $200,000 check, combined with Ohio State’s contribution, settled the debt. The back-and-forth has turned a business dispute into a personal saga, with both sides digging in.

Adding fuel to the fire is a moment that still stings for Oregon fans. When Locklyn introduced himself at Ohio State, he took a subtle jab at Dan Lanning, saying he prefers to be called “Coach Lock” because being called “Carlos” felt disrespectful. It was a small comment, but it hit a nerve, especially after Locklyn’s abrupt exit. Fans haven’t forgotten, and it’s made him a lightning rod for criticism.

Fans Fuel the Fire

If you scroll through X, the Ohio State-Oregon rivalry is alive and well, and this lawsuit is pouring gas on it. Buckeyes fans are having a field day, joking that Oregon’s still salty about Ohio State’s 41-21 thrashing in the 2025 Rose Bowl, where Locklyn’s running backs, TreVeyon Henderson and Quinshon Judkins, ran circles around the Ducks. “They’re just mad we took their coach and their pride,” one fan posted. Another quipped, “$400K? That’s pocket change for a natty.”

Oregon fans, on the other hand, are airing their grievances. They’ve called Locklyn a hypocrite for preaching mental toughness with his “soft-batch cookies” mantra—his term for players who lack resilience—only to leave for a better gig. “He talked all that ‘toughness’ stuff, then bolted for a paycheck,” one fan tweeted. Others are frustrated that Oregon’s even pursuing the lawsuit, wondering if it’s worth the bad PR. “Just let it go and move on,” a Ducks supporter wrote.

The rivalry’s intensity isn’t just about the lawsuit. These teams split their 2024 matchups, with Oregon squeaking out a 32-31 regular-season win before Ohio State dominated in the Rose Bowl. Locklyn’s move, the courtroom drama, and those lopsided rushing stats (-23 yards for Oregon vs. 181 for Ohio State) have fans on both sides ready for round three, even if it’s just in the comments section for now.

Locklyn’s New Chapter

While the lawsuit looms, Locklyn’s thriving at Ohio State. He’s coaching two 1,000-yard rushers, Henderson and Judkins, and earned a $227,500 bonus for the Buckeyes’ national title. His players rave about his energy and tough-love approach, and he’s settled into life in Columbus. But the legal battle is a dark cloud. Ohio State hasn’t commented publicly, leaving Locklyn to navigate the storm with his legal team.

For Locklyn, it’s a reminder of how fast things can change. One day, you’re a rising star at Oregon, baking “tough” cookies with your players. The next, you’re in court, defending your decision to chase a bigger opportunity. It’s a human story of ambition, loyalty, and the messy reality of college football, where contracts and rivalries can turn friends into foes.

What’s Next?

As the case heads to court, it’s anyone’s guess how it’ll play out. Will Oregon get their $400,000, or will Locklyn’s $200,000 argument hold up? Beyond the money, the lawsuit raises bigger questions about coaching contracts in college football. With assistant coaches earning more than ever and jumping between jobs, buyouts are becoming flashpoints. Oregon’s decision to sue could set a precedent, making coaches think twice before packing their bags.

For now, Locklyn’s keeping his head down, coaching his players, and preparing for the 2025 season. The Ohio State-Oregon saga, though, is far from over. Whether it’s in a courtroom or on the field, these two programs—and their fans—are ready for the next chapter. Just don’t expect anyone to share their cookies.

Sources: The Oregonian, Eleven Warriors, Sports Illustrated, Cleveland.com, X posts

Hey Buckeye Nation, it’s almost time! This Saturday, April 12, 2025, our Ohio State Buckeyes take the field for the annual Spring Game at The Shoe. Fresh off that sweet national championship in 2024, the hype is real, and this is our first peek at what 2025 might hold. Whether you’re heading to Columbus or cheering from your couch, here’s the scoop—what to watch for, how to tune in, how to grab tickets, and all the juicy details you need.

What to Watch For

The Spring Game isn’t just practice with a crowd—it’s our chance to spot the next big thing and see how the team’s coming together under Ryan Day. Here’s what’s got me buzzing:

1. Who’s the Next QB? Will Howard was a legend last year, but he’s gone now, and the quarterback spot’s wide open. I’m dying to see five-star freshmen Julian Sayin and Tavien St. Clair sling it—those kids have serious potential. Lincoln Kienholz is in the mix too, and word is he’s right there with Sayin in practice. I’ll be watching to see who’s got that cool-under-pressure vibe Ohio State QBs need.


2. Jeremiah Smith, Superstar: Can we talk about Jeremiah Smith for a sec? That freshman tore it up in 2024—70 catches, 1,224 yards, 14 touchdowns. Unreal. He’s already a rockstar, and I can’t wait to see him light up the field again. Plus, I’m curious if he’ll help younger guys like Mylan Graham and Brandon Inniss step up.


3. O-Line Shake-Up: The offensive line’s got some holes to fill after losing starters. Ethan Onianwa, Phillip Daniels, and Carson Hinzman are locked in, but right guard and left guard? Total toss-up. I’m crossing my fingers they hold strong against our beastly D-line—guys like Ethan Onianwa might just surprise us.


4. Defense Reloaded: That 2024 defense was nasty, and with studs like Jack Sawyer and JT Tuimoloau, and we’re still loaded. I’m pumped to see the next wave—maybe linebacker Payton Pierce or DB Jermaine Mathews Jr. will steal the show.


5. New Kids on the Block: Beyond the QBs, there’s fresh talent to watch. Corner Devin Sanchez and running back Bo Jackson are early enrollees with big upside, and transfers like Ethan Onianwa are already fitting in. Who’s gonna make us go “Whoa!” on Saturday?

How to Watch the Game

Can’t make it to The Shoe? No sweat—here’s how to catch every snap:

• TV: It’s on FOX at 12:00 PM EDT—yep, national TV, because that’s how we roll. Flip through your channels or hit up your cable guide to find it.


• Streaming: Grab the FOX Sports app or head to foxsports.com—just log in with your cable or streaming service (YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV, whatever you’ve got). Ohio State’s site might have something cooking too—peek at ohiostatebuckeyes.com closer to game day.


• Radio: If you’re old-school like me, tune into 97.1 The Fan in Columbus. Paul Keels and Jim Lachey will bring the vibes on the Ohio State Sports Network—check TuneIn if you’re out of range.

How to Get Tickets

If you’re itching to be there live, you’re in luck—tickets are cheap and still up for grabs as of today, April 10:

• Cost: General admission starts at $8—steal of a deal! Want something fancier? AA Deck seats are $20, and club seats run $37 (plus a few fees). Kids under 6 get in free for general areas, and students with a BuckID? Freebie!


• Where to Get ‘Em: Hit up Ticketmaster or call the Ohio State ticket office at 1-800-GOBUCKS. Group deals for 25+ are a thing too—just call ahead.


• Heads-Up: It’s two days away, so don’t sleep on this—tickets might vanish fast. Oh, and if you signed up for the Ohio State 4 Miler by April 9, you’d have scored a free Spring Game ticket. Too late now, but next year, right?

The Nitty-Gritty

• When: Saturday, April 12, 2025, 12:00 PM EDT.


• Where: Ohio Stadium—411 Woody Hayes Drive, Columbus. The Shoe’s gonna be rocking!


• What’s It Like: Ryan Day says it’s offense versus defense, starting slow with “thud” (no tackling to the ground) then going full-on. Bring your loudest cheers!


• Parking: Free lots open early—check ohiostatebuckeyes.com/gameday/parking for the best spots and shuttle details.


• Extras: Fan Fest kicks off at 9:00 AM at Remembrance Park—free food, fun, and a pic with the 2024 trophy! Want more? “Buckeye Experiences” like sideline passes are up for grabs if you splurge.


• Weather: Looks like mid-50s to low-60s°F, maybe a sprinkle. Pack a hoodie and check Friday’s forecast.

Why We Care

This isn’t just a warm-up—it’s a party for that 2024 title and a sneak peek at our repeat dreams. With Texas looming on August 30, every moment counts. Whether it’s Sayin slinging it or Sawyer wrecking plays, Saturday’s when we start believing again.

So, throw on your scarlet and gray, snag a ticket, or fire up FOX. The Buckeyes are back, and it all starts this weekend—let’s go, Ohio State!

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

March 13, 2025 – It’s the first week of NFL free agency, wallets are opening, and former Ohio State Buckeyes are out here grabbing new contracts like it’s a Black Friday sale. The league’s new year kicked off at 4 p.m. EDT on March 12, and these Scarlet and Gray legends are reminding us why Columbus is basically a football factory. Let’s dive into the stories of these guys—some old favorites, some under-the-radar heroes—who’ve got fresh ink on NFL deals this week.

Justin Fields: New York, New Vibes

Justin Fields, our dual-threat quarterback heartthrob, is taking his talents to the New York Jets. He signed a two-year, $40 million deal with $30 million guaranteed—cha-ching! After bouncing from Chicago to Pittsburgh, he’s now linking up with his Ohio State buddy Garrett Wilson in the Big Apple. I can already hear Jets fans dreaming of Fields juking defenders and tossing bombs. Honestly, it’s about time this guy got a stage to shine—he was electric at Ohio State, and now he’s got a fresh shot.

Joey Bosa: Buffalo’s New Beast

Joey Bosa’s been wrecking quarterbacks for nine years with the Chargers, but this week, he’s packing his bags for Buffalo. The Bills snagged him with $12 million guaranteed, and it could hit $15.6 million if he keeps being, well, Joey Bosa. The 49ers and Dolphins tried, but Buffalo won the tug-of-war. Imagine Bosa chowing down on wings and chasing Josh Allen in practice—those Buckeye roots are about to make Bills Mafia even rowdier.

Chase Young: Staying a Saint

Chase Young didn’t even have to flirt with free agency drama. On March 10, the New Orleans Saints said, “Nah, you’re ours,” and handed him a three-year, $51 million deal that could climb to $57 million. After a wild ride—Washington, San Francisco, now NOLA—Young’s finally got some stability. That dude who was eating quarterbacks for breakfast at Ohio State? He’s still got it, and Saints fans are probably lighting extra candles in thanks. Check out his journey on his NFL profile—it’s a wild ride.

Luke Farrell: From Jags to Niners

Luke Farrell’s the tight end you don’t notice until he’s pancaking someone or snagging a clutch pass. He left Jacksonville after four years and signed with the San Francisco 49ers this week—three years, up to $20.25 million, $11 million guaranteed. That’s a nice paycheck for a guy who’s all about the dirty work. I bet he’s already texting his old OSU teammates about the Cali weather—classic Buckeye grit meets 49ers gold.

Malik Harrison: Steelers Steal a Raven

Malik Harrison’s pulling a plot twist—after five years with the Ravens, he’s jumping to their arch-rival Pittsburgh Steelers on a two-year, $10 million deal. Signed around March 10, it’s like he couldn’t wait to ditch Baltimore’s purple for black and gold. This linebacker’s got that Ohio State toughness, and now he’s gonna be tackling his old teammates twice a year. AFC North just got spicier, folks.

Baron Browning: Desert Days Continue

Baron Browning wasn’t about to let free agency mess up his vibe. On March 9, the Arizona Cardinals locked him down with a two-year, $15 million extension—could hit $19 million if he keeps balling. Traded from Denver mid-2024, Browning’s speed and power (hello, OSU training) have him thriving in the desert. Cardinals fans are probably high-fiving over keeping this Buckeye gem.

Josh Myers: Jetting Off with Fields

Josh Myers, the center who’s been snapping balls in Green Bay, is joining Justin Fields on the Jets. The deal’s still fresh as of March 13—money details are trickling in—but he’s heading to New York to protect his old Ohio State QB. Imagine the locker room vibes: “Hey, Justin, remember that time in Columbus?” These two could be the secret sauce the Jets need.

Liam McCullough: The Snapper Stays

Liam McCullough’s the long snapper you forget about until a punt goes sideways—and that’s why the Atlanta Falcons love him. On March 6, they gave him a four-year extension, right before the free agency chaos. He’s been perfect since 2022, and that Ohio State precision isn’t going anywhere. Falcons fans, you’re welcome—your special teams are safe.

Who’s Next?

This week’s already a Buckeye party, but keep an eye out—J.K. Dobbins and Dre’Mont Jones are still out there, top free agents who could drop a signing bombshell any minute. As of noon-ish on March 13, nothing’s official for them, but the week’s not over. I’m refreshing my phone like it’s game day. Want the latest? Peek at the NFL free agency tracker—it’s moving fast.

In the wild world of high school football recruiting, CJ Sanna is quickly becoming the name on everyone’s lips for the 2026 class. This linebacker from Olentangy High School in Lewis Center, Ohio, isn’t just turning heads—he’s capturing hearts with his grit and talent. Now a junior stepping into the spotlight of his recruiting journey, CJ’s got this rare mix of size, speed, and pure football smarts that’s got college coaches across the country dreaming of what he could do for their teams. As of today, February 27, 2025, let’s dive into CJ’s story and see how this Ohio kid is lighting up the 2026 recruiting scene.

The Guy on the Field

Picture this: a 6-foot-3, 225-pound junior barreling through the line, chasing down quarterbacks, and stuffing runs like it’s nothing. That’s CJ Sanna on game day. He’s got the kind of build that makes you go, “Yep, that’s a linebacker,” but it’s his heart and hustle that really set him apart. In his 2024 junior season, CJ was everywhere—97 tackles, 11 of them for a loss, seven sacks, and a couple of fumble recoveries over 11 games, according to MaxPreps. Whether he’s crashing into the backfield or chasing down a receiver, he plays with this fire that’s impossible to miss. Michigan State’s defensive coordinator Joe Rossi put it perfectly when he called CJ “long, athletic, and smart”—the kind of player who seems built for today’s fast, tricky college game.

The Recruiting Buzz

CJ’s not just a local hero anymore—he’s a national name. The recruiting folks are all over him, and it’s fun to watch his star rise. ESPN and On3 see him as a four-star kid, ranking him around No. 250 in their top-300 lists for 2026. Meanwhile, 247Sports and Rivals give him three stars but still put him high up as the No. 26 or 27 linebacker in the country and a top-20 player in Ohio. The numbers might differ, but everyone agrees: CJ’s on his way up, and by the time his senior year rolls around, he could be shining even brighter.

Colleges Come Calling

Back in September 2024, CJ’s phone started lighting up with offers, and it hasn’t stopped since. Iowa State was the first big Power 4 school to say, “We want you,” followed by Iowa, Purdue, West Virginia, and Wisconsin. Michigan State jumped in too, and then Minnesota got in on the action after a chat with their coach Mariano Sori-Marin in January 2025. Smaller schools like Liberty and Toledo chimed in early, but the real game-changer came on January 31, 2025, when Ohio State—the team every Ohio kid grows up watching—offered him a spot. That’s when things got real.

Ohio State’s offer hit close to home, literally and figuratively. CJ’s from their backyard, and the Buckeyes love keeping Ohio’s best right where they belong. Posts on X from recruiting gurus like Steve Wiltfong and Alex Gleitman are buzzing with Ohio State vibes, and On3’s giving them a whopping 97.4% chance of landing him. Plus, CJ’s teammate, four-star safety Kaden Gebhardt, is also on Ohio State’s radar—imagine the two of them sticking together in Columbus. But CJ’s keeping his options open—he’s got an official visit to Wisconsin lined up for June 12, 2025, and four unofficial trips planned to Ohio State, with Iowa State, Michigan State, and Minnesota still hanging around, hoping to steal his heart.

Why Ohio State Feels Like Home

For Ohio State, CJ’s the kind of player they dream about. Under head coach Ryan Day, they’ve got a knack for snagging Ohio’s toughest, most athletic kids, especially linebackers who can do it all. CJ fits that mold perfectly, and when he visited Columbus in January 2025 to celebrate their national championship win, you could tell it clicked. The offer came soon after, and it’s hard not to picture him in scarlet and gray, joining stars like five-star receiver Chris Henry Jr. and four-star defensive back Jakob Weatherspoon in their 2026 class. Keeping CJ in-state wouldn’t just be a win for the team—it’d be a point of pride for Buckeye Nation.

What’s Next for CJ?

Spring and summer 2025 are about to get wild for CJ. He’s got camps to show off at, visits to take, and a senior season ahead that could turn heads even more. That trip to Wisconsin in June? It’s a chance to see what life could be like outside Ohio. Those four stops at Ohio State? They’re a sign he’s seriously thinking about staying home. Wherever he lands, one thing’s for sure: CJ’s got the talent and drive to make a mark. If he keeps balling out like he did last fall, he might just lock in that fourth star across the board and climb even higher up the recruiting ranks.

Ohio State has made headlines yet again by recruiting Matt Patricia for the position of new defensive coordinator. Patricia will join the Buckeyes, and his credentials boast being an NFL legend and a reputation for being a defensive genius. That adjustment came after the previous coordinator left for a job at Penn State. While the Buckeyes' offense was high-flying, it is hoped that Patricia can repair the defensive issues that hindered the team two seasons ago.

Who is Matt Patricia?

Matt Patricia's rise to fame in the NFL came with the New England Patriots, where he learned under the legendary team of Bill Belichick, constructing defenses that were truly nightmares for the opposing teams. He then had a turn at coaching with the Detroit Lions, where there were equal shares of highs and lows. He came back to the Patriots briefly as an advisor. Now, he's going to step up in the college football arena and bring a big-time shake-up to Ohio State with all his years of experience.

Why Ohio State?

Experience and Expertise: Patricia's deep dive into defensive strategies during his successful years in the NFL is expected to elevate Ohio State's defensive game plan.
Cultural Fit: His detail-oriented, disciplined approach aligns with Ohio State's ethos of excellence.
Recruitment Boost: His NFL pedigree could attract high-caliber defensive recruits eager to learn from an established coach.

Challenges Ahead

Transition to College Football: Adapting from professional to collegiate levels involves learning new aspects like recruiting and managing student-athletes' academic commitments.
Rebuilding Trust: After his Detroit tenure, Patricia will need to re-establish his coaching credibility.
Defensive Scheme Adaptation: The team will face the task of learning and adapting to potentially new defensive plays, which might initially disrupt the rhythm but could prove advantageous over time.

Fan and Team Reaction

The Ohio State community has mixed feelings; there's excitement for what Patricia could bring, but also a whisper of caution due to his recent NFL stint. Within the team, there's a buzz of anticipation, with players and coaches eager to soak up his knowledge.

On one of several key developments of the college football coaching carousel to this point in the offseason, Ohio State University has officially introduced Tyler Bowen to its coaching stable as its new offensive line coach, succeeding Justin Frye. Frye parted ways with OSU for the NFL ranks. The addition of Bowen now ushers in a new era for the Buckeyes as they seek to continue the prowess on the offensive front that defined their season-long run to the national championship.

Who is Tyler Bowen?

Bowen, 35, comes to Columbus with a diversified coaching background. The last three seasons, he spent as offensive coordinator at Virginia Tech. While with the Hokies, he split his duties coaching tight ends and quarterbacks-the versatility in both major offensive coaching roles. Before joining the Hokies, Bowen had some eloquent coaching in the Big Ten after serving the Nittany Lions of Penn State as a tight ends and co-offensive coordinator since 2018 up to 2020. During his stay with Penn State then, Bowen was the co-offensive coordinator in the year 2020 as his hot recruit list went out for Olu Fashanu and Tyler Warren.

His other NFL experience came in 2021 when he had a brief stop with the Jacksonville Jaguars under former Ohio State coach Urban Meyer, adding to his high-level football acumen. His last stop as an offensive line coach came at Maryland back in 2017, which could raise some eyebrows about the position he's taking at Ohio State.

Ohio State Implications

It says Bowen is part of a new energy Ohio State head coach Ryan Day wants to implement among the offensive coaches. There had been several departures: not just Frye but also offensive coordinator Chip Kelly to the Las Vegas Raiders and defensive coordinator Jim Knowles to Penn State. Ohio State had been in flux, trying to rebuild its coaching stable; the addition of Bowen is about shoring up the staff:

Recruiting: Bowen pulled off some of the greatest recruiting during his stay with Penn State, a virtue that will come in handy as Ohio State seeks to lock down the next generation of offensive linemen, particularly in the coming recruiting cycles.

Offensive Philosophy: While not strictly an offensive line coach in recent years, Bowen brings an offensive coordinator perspective that could add some fresh twists and wrinkles to Ohio State's attack. His exposure to multiple offensive systems in the past could also be instructive on how best to hone the Buckeyes' ground-based attack.

Mentorship and Development: The task is cut out for Bowen to prove himself in the development of players, most especially the offensive line, a position very key to Ohio State's success. The last time he was directly involved in that capacity was close to a decade ago, and while it presents an opportunity, it is equally a challenge.

Upcoming Challenges

Success from Day One, Bowen steps into a role of expectation. This Ohio State OL was huge in the championship season, suffered injuries to some of your key guys, and yet still managed to be ranked top in keeping the quarterback upright. The expectation there will be that he not only maintains that mark but betters it with Bowen, especially due to the coaching turnover.

Also, how Bowen's style will mesh with the team and new offensive coordinator - possibly Brian Hartline - will be important. The synergy of the coaches is going to provide how fast Ohio State can adjust to move on back with business as usual.

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.