Finding the right fit for your college football program isn't just about what happens on the field, but off it as well. Today, Ohio State added a key piece. How will that commitment impact the Buckeyes?
This morning, Ohio State head coach Urban Meyer and wide receivers coach Zach Smith secured pledges from two of the nation's top wide receivers when Trevon Grimes, the No. 3 overall wideout, and Tyjon Lindsey, No. 5 overall, announced their commitment to the Buckeyes.
Let's take a look at what Lindsey — who we'll consider the first wide receiver in Ohio State's Class of 2017 since he was the one expected to commit on Monday — brings to Columbus.
ON THE FIELD
One of the most elusive wide receivers in the country, Lindsey is nearly impossible to cover one-on-one. Unlike Grimes, who is considered more of an outside threat, Lindsey gives Ohio State a Percy Harvin-like offensive weapon, which Meyer has not had in his four years on the job.
With the looming departure of senior Dontre Wilson, Lindsey has a chance for early playing time as a returner.
IN THE CLASS
As mentioned, Lindsey — for all intents and purposes — should be considered the 17th pledge and first wide receiver in Ohio State's 2017 class, despite the fact that he and Grimes committed together on Monday morning; Grimes was initially scheduled to announce his decision on Wednesday. He is considered the fifth-best receiver and No. 24 overall prospect in his recruiting cycle.
Lindsey had offers from every major program, including Alabama, Auburn, Georgia, Michigan, Nebraska, Notre Dame, Oklahoma, Oregon, Tennessee, Texas A&M, UCLA and USC, among others.
He is the third commit from Las Vegas, Nevada, Bishop Gorman High School, joining quarterback Tate Martell and defensive tackle Haskell Garrett, who committed to Ohio State in June and February, respectively.
Things had been trending toward Ohio State for the last few months, particularly after Lindsey last visited Ohio State for Friday Night Lights in July. He spent some much-needed time with Meyer and Smith, as his only visit to Columbus occurred earlier in the spring, and sources tell Eleven Warriors he and Grimes produced their commitment video just days later.
“The environment was perfect," Lindsey told Eleven Warriors. “I heard fans shouting, ‘O-H, I-O.’ Former players and kids were coming by asking for pictures and all that so it was a great environment today.”
THE INTANGIBLES
One of the most significant factors, it seems, in Lindsey's recruitment was his relationship with Martell.
The pair played together as freshman at Poway, California, High School before transferring to Bishop Gorman following their freshman year. Lindsey and Martell have combined for more than 2,000 yards and 33 touchdowns in the past two years, and after a brief stint apart, it looks as if they are set to chase a third-straight mythical national championship.
That relationship could come into play down the road, as Martell will be among several signal callers looking to take over for when starting quarterback J.T. Barrett departs Columbus.
