Ohio State has successfully held onto one of its top recruits, Tarvos “TJ” Alford, despite strong interest from the University of Miami.
Alford, a highly sought-after athlete from the state of Florida, was initially committed to the Buckeyes but received significant attention from the Hurricanes as National Signing Day approached.
Miami made a concerted effort to sway Alford, offering him an attractive opportunity to stay closer to home, but Ohio State remained confident in its ability to keep the talented prospect.
The 6’2″, 210-pound linebacker has been a key part of Ohio State’s 2024 recruiting class, known for his athleticism, versatility, and high football .
His commitment to the Buckeyes was seen as a major coup for Ohio State’s recruiting efforts in a year where the team is looking to strengthen its defense.
For Miami, securing a player of Alford’s caliber would have been a significant boost to its program as the Hurricanes continue to rebuild under head coach Mario Cristobal. Miami has been aggressive in recruiting local talent, and the potential addition of Alford would have added a dynamic element to the defensive side of the ball.
However, despite Miami’s efforts, Ohio State’s coaching staff, led by head coach Ryan Day, was able to convince Alford to stay the course. The Buckeyes made it clear that they saw him as an integral part of their future defense and continued to build a strong relationship with him during the recruiting process.
Ohio State’s pedigree of developing NFL-caliber linebackers and its consistent championship contention were key factors in Alford’s decision to remain committed.
Alford’s decision to stick with Ohio State not only bolsters the Buckeyes’ 2024 recruiting class but also sends a message that the program is poised to remain a powerhouse in college football.
With Miami’s overtures falling short, Ohio State has successfully kept one of the top talents in the nation, ensuring that its defense will continue to be a strong point for years to come.