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The first time the NCAA suspended in-person recruiting tactics, Ohio State didn’t allow a single aspect of the suspension to affect their efforts on the trail. The Buckeyes were able to hammer down multiple commitments for their 2021 class, and with Wednesday’s news of that suspension being extended, the staff will do nothing but continue what they have been doing all along.
Ryan Day and his crew have proven recruiting is the forefront of the program’s continued success, and with the current cycle on its way to being a historical class, its testimony to what they are preaching. At any rate, the countdown to the next pledge in the class is on.
Buckeyes dish out latest offer
Most of the time when thinking of the Ohio State defensive line, the credit goes to the edge rushers. Year after year the Buckeyes pump out a top defensive end product thanks to talent and the tutelage of Larry Johnson. But make no mistake about it — Ohio State also dominates inside at the defensive tackle spot too.
It’s crucial to have the big guys in the middle to clog the gaps and slow down the run game. Fortunately, they have helped produce some elite interior players which helps their recruiting efforts. Already in 2021, they’ve been able to keep in-state stud Mike Hall at home and are looking to add more to the fold.
Blessed and honored to receive an offer from THEE OHIO STATE UNIVERSITY!! #GoBucks pic.twitter.com/ofPyymET0D
— Tyleik Williamš (@tyleikk) April 3, 2020
On Thursday, the Buckeyes sent out their latest offer to Tyleik Williams, a 6-foot-4, 315 pound four-star DT out of Virginia. A prototype defensive tackle build, Williams already possesses the necessary size and abilities to be a stud at the next level. With 30 offers from many of the best programs in the country, it’s obvious others too are taking notice of his potential.
Currently, Williams checks in as the 15th best defensive tackle in the country and the No. 7 player in Virginia for the 2021 class. Ohio State is in great standing right now for the nation’s top overall defensive tackle in J.T. Tuimoloau, but with this offer coming to Williams, it’s no doubt Ohio State is interested in potentially adding multiple guys at a position of need.
Definitely don’t want to miss this visit
Last week, a four-star athlete out of the prestigious IMG Academy, Kamar Wilcoxson, de-committed from the University of Florida. A change in his recruitment that many saw coming, Wilcoxson even while still committed to the Gators made his affinity for the Buckeyes no secret to anyone. In fact, it is assumed by many if not most that Ohio State will eventually be his landing spot after his change of plans.
He’s made it clear the Buckeyes are a real possibility, and made it even more clear how highly he thinks of Kerry Coombs. Landing Wilcoxson in the 2021 class would be another huge addition to the class, and with his position status projecting in the defensive secondary, his talents would be welcomed with open arms at an important spot.
Wilcoxson has yet to visit Ohio State. A tribute to how well the Buckeyes recruit, having top prospects highly interested in your program without even visiting is truly a compliment in the highest esteem. To move forward with the future DB, a visit is key to both parties. Getting to know Wilcoxson in person will be likely one of the final hurdles for Ryan Day and crew to clear as they pursue a potential commitment.
However, until this in-person recruiting suspension is lifted, that will have to be on hold.
long as it’s clear by June 12th we good. https://t.co/ofL3r5Lf0K
— (@KamarWilcoxson4) April 1, 2020
The original plan for Wilcoxson was to have his official visit this coming June. That technically is still set in play, but with the unprecedented times we’re all in, of course there’s some worry as to if that can still be the case. Yes, a re-scheduling would surely take place if the June visit were to be on a hiatus, but like Kamar, the Buckeyes too want to get him to campus and continue to make their mark on this recruitment.
Currently listed as the nation’s No. 12 athlete, Wilcoxson on Twitter stated how important this visit is and when it does in fact take place, the potential of him committing on the spot seems to be a big possibility. It’s not out of the question it could happen sooner, but let’s hope by June all is back to normal in the recruiting game — and more importantly the rest of the world.
Quick Hits:
- Five-star 2021 outside linebacker, Terrence Lewis, (Hollywood, Florida/Chaminade-Madonna Prep) is announcing his final five schools tomorrow. Lewis is the No. 1 OLB in the country in the 2021 class, and the No. 10 player overall. Ohio State is one of the few that have yet to offer, but could they possibly still wind up on his list? We’ll see shortly.
- Wichista State guard Jamarius Burton announced that he is leaving the program as a transfer. The five schools he is considering taking his talents include Texas Tech, Xavier, Seton Hall, Marquette, and Ohio State.
I want to reiterate my appreciation to all the Coaches that took the time to reach out to me. At this time I have narrowed my list to 5 schools:
— worldwidejay (@Moneymaker441) April 2, 2020
(In no particular order)
Marquette, Xavier, Ohio State, Seton Hall, Texas Tech. pic.twitter.com/p1M8VyNOuw