Matt Cashore-USA TODAY Sports
Off to a hot start to it’s 2017 class, Ohio State isn’t forgetting about 2018 and beyond.
If you want to build a college football power, it starts with recruiting. Currently holding to the top overall recruiting class for the 2017 cycle, Urban Meyer and the hard working Ohio State coaching staff have hit the recruiting trail over the last few weeks searching for not only top prospects in the now senior class, but also a large amount of underclassmen from across the country.
With spots quickly feeling up in the Buckeyes 2017 class, Ohio State has still yet to secure a verbal pledge from a class of 2018 prospect. While some programs hold multiple commitments at the moment, Meyer and crew are patiently waiting for the right piece to start their 2018 puzzle off.
A commitment can’t happen without the staff offering you a scholarship first. Visiting a large amount of high school programs since the dead period ended, the Buckeyes have dished out a chance to line up in the Scarlet and Gray to many of the most sought after prospects in the junior class.
Land-Grant Holy Land had the chance to catch up with a few of the recent Ohio State offerees. See what the prospects had the say about their offer from the Buckeyes, and more:
TE Jeremy Ruckert
Town/School: Lindenhurst, N.Y. / Lindenhurst Senior
Size: 6’5″/220
Other offers: Alabama, Boston College, Florida State, Tennessee, Virginia Tech
How did the Ohio State offer go down?
“My coach had told me to give coach Meyer a call. We were on the phone for awhile and had a great conversation about football, and my family. He ended the conversation by saying I have an offer to play football at The Ohio State University. It felt so surreal and it was an honor to get it from him.”
Thoughts on Ohio State:
“I have no favorites right now, but it is Ohio State and it can’t get much better than that. I’m just enjoying this whole process out. (When I think of OSU) I think of how they just have a winning, big brother attitude, and how they use the tight end a lot and bring a lot of them into the NFL.”
Visit plans:
“I’d love to visit them in the future, but I don’t have a date in mind.”
OT Darrell Simpson
Town/School: Justin,Texas / Northwest
Size: 6’7″/330
Other offers: Oklahoma, Oklahoma State, TCU, Texas A&M, Texas Tech
How did the Ohio State offer go down?
“Tim Beck came by our school to see a practice and spoke to my coach. I then spoke to coach Urban Meyer, and he gave me the offer. Coach Meyer advised me that he watched my film and liked what he saw, and I would fit into their program.”
Thoughts on Ohio State:
“Prestigious University, championships, and a great college. It’s another great option on the table along with the others. I’m honored to be considered. I have yet to do a top list. Being that I am just going to be a junior. I just want to make the best decision without rushing. I’m definitely looking at each school for academics.”
Visit plans:
“I will be in town to see family and visit the campus on June 11th.”
OT Colten Blanton
Town/School: Cypress,Texas / Cypress Ranch
Size: 6’5.5″/270
Other offers: Alabama, Auburn, Michigan, Mississippi, TCU
How did the Ohio State offer go down?
“Coach Studrawa stopped by the school and pulled my transcript, then gave my coach his card and told me to call him. He thinks I will be a great offensive lineman and is excited.”
Thoughts on Ohio State:
“I think of success when I hear OSU. I mean OSU is a place where success is normal and that is something I want. OSU sticks out as long with Alabama, Ole Miss, Auburn, Michigan, and TCU.”
Visit plans:
“I plan on taking a visit this summer, but I don’t know when.”