As we edge closer to the start of spring ball at Ohio State, all eyes are on head coach Ryan Day and his efforts both on the field and in the recruiting arena. Key returning players like Julian Sayin and Jeremiah Smith are generating buzz, but the recruiting trail is equally hot, with standout prospects lining up visits.
One name to watch is Marcus Fakatou, a highly sought-after defensive lineman who has locked in a visit to Ohio State on March 10, coinciding with the first day of spring ball. This visit underscores Fakatou's interest in the Buckeyes, a program that consistently attracts top talent.
Standing at an impressive 6-6 and 275 pounds, Fakatou's recruitment has been on fire. With 36 offers on the table, he's narrowed his top choices to include Ohio State, Michigan, Georgia, Notre Dame, USC, Texas, Oregon, Oklahoma, Miami, and Penn State. The competition is fierce, but Ohio State's swift move to secure a visit highlights their strong position in this recruiting battle.
According to the 247Sports Composite rankings, Fakatou is a five-star talent, the No. 2 defensive lineman nationally, and the No. 3 player out of California for the 2027 class. Originally slated for the 2028 class, his reclassification has only intensified the recruiting efforts around him.
The upcoming visit to Columbus could be pivotal. Ohio State is known for making a lasting impression on recruits, and how they host Fakatou could significantly influence his decision-making process. With Ryan Day at the helm, the Buckeyes are poised to make a compelling case for why Fakatou should join their ranks.