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?
Ohio State landed a surprising commitment on Wednesday evening, as Orlando, Florida, Jones four-star cornerback Sevyn Banks pledged his services to the Buckeyes following in-school visit from defensive backs coach Kerry Coombs.
Let's take a look at what Banks — the No. 201 prospect overall in the Class of 2018 — brings to Columbus.
ON THE FIELD
Put on the tape and it's easy to see why Ohio State defensive backs coach Kerry Coombs is intrigued by the 6-foot-1, 180-pound Banks. He not only has all the physical tools of a playmaking corner but also the frame to shut down taller wide receivers.
Banks reads the eyes of the quarterback well and makes plays on the ball, not the receiver. He takes chances, which sometimes leads to a big play for the offense, but it's just as likely to result in a game-changing interception for the defense.
Like most high school corners, Banks uses his athleticism to get the job done more so than technique. He has to work on his footwork, strength and tackling form at the next level, but those things can continue to be improved and refined.
Banks missed his entire junior season after suffering a torn ACL during an offseason workout last April. He is fully healthy and participating in spring practices this month, however.
IN THE CLASS
Banks becomes the ninth member — but first cornerback — in Ohio State's Supreme '18 recruiting class, joining five-star defensive tackle Taron Vincent, four-star defensive end Brenton Cox, four-star offensive tackle Max Wray, four-star dual-threat quarterback Emory Jones, four-star safeties Jaiden Woodbey and Josh Proctor and four-star running backs Brian Snead and Jaelen Gill.
Seeing as the Buckeyes signed five cornerbacks in this year's recruiting class, the position isn't necessarily one of great need. But, then again, the program has also replaced three-fourths of its secondary for two consecutive years, so depth could become an issue quickly if that trend continues.
As for this specific class, Ohio State will continue to chase higher-rated cornerbacks like Houston five-star Anthony Cook and IMG Academy four-star Houston Griffith. Banks' commitment doesn't impact either, and the Buckeyes remain among the favorites for both.
THE INTANGIBLES
Banks is the younger brother of Florida safety Marcell Harris, so most just assumed he'd also end up with the Gators. But first impressions are everything in recruiting, and his unofficial visit to Ohio State for the annual Spring Game put the Buckeyes right in the thick of his recruitment.
It was a shocking turn of events, to say the least, as Ohio State's coaching staff — which is usually quick celebrate on Twitter following a commitment — was silent for nearly an hour after Banks' pledge was first reported.
Coombs, as mentioned, was at Banks' school on Wednesday to watch him practice. And though they couldn't have contact, per NCAA rules, it was that visit that sealed seemingly sealed the deal for the Buckeyes.
