Ohio State Sends Poaching Offer to 230LB Michigan Target

Michigan had already sent him an offer back on April 25, and now the rival Buckeyes are looking to rip the rug out from under them. That’s the game and in this era, Ohio State isn’t shy about poaching. Brandon Lockley isn’t just another linebacker prospect either. The sophomore has already shown he can cover space like a safety and hit like a truck. He dropped back in coverage for St. Joe’s in 2024 and didn’t look remotely out of place, an attribute that Alabama’s staff in particular loves. And yes, the Buckeyes and Wolverines aren’t battling alone, the Crimson Tide are in this too. 

Brandon Lockley himself admitted, “I love Alabama. I know they have a legendary program and produce great talent from every position all the time.” But don’t overlook Penn State in this. The Nittany Lions had him in for his first-ever game-day visit during the double-overtime White Out against Oregon. He walked away impressed despite the loss, saying it gave him a real feel for what college football’s biggest stage looks like. The in-state pull is real, and James Franklin won’t go quietly. And while Penn State is building its case, the real pressure is boiling about 400 miles west, where Michigan is trying to steady its footing.

Michigan feeling the recruiting squeeze

For Michigan, this couldn’t come at a worse time. The Wolverines are still sitting in the top 11 of the 2026 class, but the momentum has wobbled. Losing four-star corner Dorian Barney to Ole Miss stung, and while running back Savion Hiter remains the jewel of the class, Ohio State circling Brandon Lockley already has their future recruitment looking competitive. 

To make matters worse, Ohio State isn’t just going after Lockley. They’re also trying to lure Michigan native offensive tackle Dewey Young, who holds offers from Michigan, Michigan State, and Kansas. If the Buckeyes can make an impression on his Columbus visit, that would be another painful twist for Sherrone Moore’s staff, watching homegrown talent drift south.

Meanwhile, the Buckeyes are 4-0 on the field after suffocating Washington 24-6, and they return home this weekend to face Minnesota. Winning on Saturdays helps, but Ryan Day knows flipping high-value recruits is what makes dynasties hum. Michigan fans may want to brace for yet another reminder that in this rivalry, even recruiting is war.