Ohio State has always looked to Cleveland Glenville for talent and recruiting for the 2014 class is no different.
Three rising junior Tarblooders, ATH Marshon Lattimore, S Erick Smith, and OL Marcelys Jones, have already received Buckeye offers, with Jones committing on Christmas and the Ohio State in great shape for Lattimore and Smith.
All three prospects were in Indianapolis for the Best of the Midwest Combine and it was Lattimore who stood out amongst the pack. The five-star talent posted great numbers with a 10-foot broad jump and a 4.48 40-yard dash time. Lattimore also shined in one-on-one and position drills, leading the entire group in the secondary.
His efforts led to him being named MVP of the group.
The nation's 22nd-ranked overall player is not a one-trick pony, either. Lattimore excelled at wide receiver last season, leading some to believe he could play either position at the next level.
Urban Meyer and his staff told the two-way athlete that he has the choice to play on either side of the ball if he chooses to take his talents to Columbus. It is a proposition the Cleveland product covets.
Lattimore is one of the top priorities for Meyer in the upcoming class. His speed and athleticism are rare, and the Ohio State staff will do everything they can to keep him from leaving their backyard.
Join us after the jump for more on the latest star to put on the Tarblooder uniform, Marshon Lattimore.
You just took a trip to Ohio State a few weeks ago. What was that visit like?
It was a pretty good experience. I got to hang out with the other recruits that attended the game. The coaches talked to me and told me how important I was for this class. Coach Drayton talked to me about continuing to get better on and off the field.
How would you assess your performance at the BOTMW combine?
I was happy with what I did. My speed was there and I showed well at defensive back. It was a fun time. I just want to keep getting better.
Are there any other visits you have planned for the near future?
I want to get out to Tennessee, Louisville, Illinois, Indiana, and Ohio State this spring.
Is defensive back still the position you want to play at the next level?
I like defense the most. It would be cool to have the opportunity to play offense and defense in college though.
Has Marcelys Jones been trying to recruit you to Ohio State much?
He talks to me and Erick about playing together in college quite a bit. It is something I'll have to think about.