Ohio State makes an impression on game-day visitors, looks to re-enter open 2028 recruitment

Ohio State faces a formidable challenge this weekend as they travel to Kinnick Stadium to take on the Iowa Hawkeyes. With a projected 14.5-point favorite on paper, Ohio State will need to deliver a sharp performance if they hope to avoid giving the Hawkeyes any reason to consider an upset. The game also serves as an important opportunity for Ohio State to showcase their program to game-day visitors, particularly recruits from across the country who will be watching ESPN’s "College GameDay" coverage of the matchup.

In the lead-up to the weekend, Ohio State has seen positive results from their game-day visits, most recently during their home game against Illinois. The Buckeyes welcomed a large number of prospects to Columbus, and the feedback from these visits has been overwhelmingly positive. Among the notable visitors was four-star offensive tackle Amaree Joshua, who had a particularly memorable experience on game day.

Joshua, a Georgia native and the No. 146 player nationally at his position, had previously visited Ohio Stadium but this was his first opportunity to experience the game-day atmosphere first-hand. His visit has only strengthened his connection to the program, which is crucial for an offensive tackle position where Ohio State will be facing tough competition from several SEC programs.

Adding to the excitement of the weekend, Ohio State has also received word that four-star Ohio lineman Anthony Blalock Jr. has decommitted from Alabama and potentially re-opened his recruitment with the Buckeyes. Blalock, who is rated as the No. 255 player nationally and No. 16 player at his position in the 2028 class, was an Alabama commit since July after collecting more than 20 offers, including one from Ohio State.

Given his talent, Ohio roots, and the need for depth along the offensive line, it would be surprising if Ohio State didn't pursue him again. This presents a second opportunity for the Buckeyes to make their pitch and potentially secure another key addition to their roster.