It’s starting to happen.
On a call with media members on Wednesday, Ohio State head coach Ryan Day mentioned that some incoming commits in the 2021 class were excited about the potential of playing two seasons in one calendar year — thus burning up just one year of eligibility. It’s a silver lining to the season being moved to the spring that wasn’t really thought of much.
On Friday, we heard from incoming four-star running back Evan Pryor who has decided to take advantage of that notion. And now, on the heels of that announcement, five-star defensive end Jack Sawyer has come to the same conclusion.
Just a mangled Wolverine’s throw from Columbus at Pickerington North, Sawyer is ranked as the No. 1 prospect in the 2021 class according to the ESPN 300 recruiting index.
“After extensive discussion with my parents and coaches regarding the uncertainty of this high school football season and the probability of a spring collegiate season, I have decided to focus on training and preparation for my early enrollment at Ohio State,” tweeted Sawyer.
“I want to thank all of my coaches and teammates for their support throughout this difficult decision.”
Thankful for the awesome 3 years playing for Pickerington North. See you soon #BuckeyeNation. pic.twitter.com/mC09WDWcTJ
— Jack Sawyer (@jacksawyer40) August 14, 2020
Both announcements now make three high-profile recruiting commitments that plan to sit out their senior years of high school and enroll early at OSU in hopes of getting in on the action for a spring season. Five-star RB TreVeyon Henderson made his decision prior to all the crazy, and zany news of the Big Ten.
How much a part of the season these freshmen coming in will contribute remains to be seen, but if there’s any that can be a part of things so quickly, it’s one of the top prospects in the country.
Now, all that has to happen is for there to actually be a spring season. We still have our doubts on that one but remain hopeful.
Contact/Follow us @BuckeyesWire on Twitter, and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of Ohio State news, notes and opinion.
We have a forum and message board now. Get in on the conversation about Ohio State athletics by joining the Buckeyes Wire Forum.