Ohio State’s football program made a significant splash in the recruiting world by landing one of the most sought-after players in the 2025 class, 5-star quarterback David Sanders Jr. The highly-ranked signal caller chose the Buckeyes over a fierce group of competitors, including Auburn, Nebraska, and Tennessee. His decision marks a major victory for head coach Ryan Day and his staff, solidifying Ohio State’s position as one of the premier programs in college football.
Sanders, a dual-threat quarterback from Charlotte, North Carolina, has long been regarded as one of the top recruits in the nation. His blend of size, athleticism, and arm talent sets him apart from other quarterbacks in his class. Standing at 6-foot-4 and weighing around 210 pounds, Sanders possesses the physical tools that many elite programs covet. He is known for his strong arm, ability to make plays on the move, and impressive football IQ. His versatility makes him a dangerous prospect in both the passing and running game, with the potential to elevate any offense he leads.
The recruitment of Sanders was closely watched by college football enthusiasts, as he had already drawn attention from several powerhouse programs.
Auburn, under head coach Hugh Freeze, was seen as one of the early favorites to land Sanders, given the program’s strong history and recent coaching changes aimed at revitalizing the team’s offense. Meanwhile, Nebraska, led by head coach Matt Rhule, also made a serious push to bring Sanders to Lincoln. The Cornhuskers were eager to make a statement with the addition of a top-tier quarterback to help turn around their program. Tennessee, with its high-powered offense led by head coach Josh Heupel, was another major contender, looking to add a star quarterback to complement their explosive attack.
Despite the competition, Ohio State’s allure was undeniable. The Buckeyes have become known for their quarterback development under Ryan Day, who has already produced two top NFL draft picks in Justin Fields and C.J. Stroud in recent years. Day’s reputation for nurturing quarterbacks to reach their full potential played a significant role in Sanders’s decision. Additionally, Ohio State’s consistent success in the Big Ten and their regular playoff appearances gave Sanders the opportunity to compete for national championships.
Another key factor in Sanders’s decision was Ohio State’s offensive system. The Buckeyes run a pro-style offense that is known for developing quarterbacks who are not only effective passers but also capable of making plays with their legs when needed. Sanders’s skill set aligns perfectly with the offensive style at Ohio State, making it an ideal fit for his development as a future NFL prospect.
In the end, Sanders chose Ohio State, and his commitment has sent shockwaves through the college football recruiting landscape.
His arrival in Columbus adds to an already impressive class of recruits for the Buckeyes and gives them a strong foundation at the quarterback position for the years to come. With Sanders at the helm, Ohio State fans can look forward to an exciting future as they continue to challenge for national championships.
