Caleb Downs, a safety from Hoschton, Georgia, received a scholarship offer from the Buckeyes on February 18, 2021. Prior to deciding to commit to the Crimson Tide, Downs gave Ohio State considerable thought; in fact, the Buckeyes were in it all the way against Alabama. Then, Downs was made aware of what a top priority it was by Ohio State safeties coach Perry Eliano and cornerbacks coach Tim Walton, who recruits Georgia for the Buckeyes.
Following Nick Saban’s retirement, Downs chose to use the Transfer Portal following an incredible first season at Alabama that included numerous distinctions. It was evident while inside the gateway that Downs would ultimately attend Georgia or Ohio State.
Despite the fact that Georgia was the overwhelming favorite to win this time, the Buckeyes were unfazed. They took their swing, which on Thursday included visiting with Downs and his family, along with Ryan Day, Tim Walton, and other notable figures. And Day and associates have successfully executed it. Downs has committed to the Buckeyes and made the decision to go north.
Before deciding, Downs visited Georgia, Alabama, Notre Dame, and Ohio State (the Buckeyes earned the coveted final opportunity) on official visits during his high school recruitment. Since he knew Ohio State and Georgia well, he didn’t need to make any official trips this time.
After an outstanding high school career, the 6-foot-0 and 203-pound Downs was rated as a 5-star prospect, the nation’s No. 11 overall prospect, the No. 1 safety, and the No. 1 prospect in Georgia. He provides a major boost to what should be an excellent Ohio State defense in the upcoming season.
During his high school recruiting, Downs had formal visits to Ohio State (the Buckeyes got the coveted final opportunity), Georgia, Alabama, Notre Dame, and Ohio State before making his decision. This time, he didn’t need to travel on official business because he was well-acquainted with Georgia and Ohio State.
The 6-foot-0, 203-pound Downs was regarded as a 5-star prospect, the nation’s No. 11 overall prospect, the top safety, and the top prospect in Georgia following an exceptional high school career. He gives Ohio State’s defense, which is expected to be outstanding in the upcoming season, a significant boost.
Ohio State would have a strong secondary without Downs in 2024 as they pursued a national championship. However, Downs significantly closes the only genuine potential gap in that secondary. Many of the starting players from the successful defense from the previous season are back, notably Tyleik Williams, Jack Sawyer, and J.T. Tuimoloau up front, and the secondary is quite likely the best in college football.
