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Recruiting insider reveals the Ohio State Buckeyes are going to have to beat out Michigan to land elite player
Barbara J. Perenic/Columbus Dispatch-USA TODAY NETWORK

The month of June has been a pivotal one for the Ohio State Buckeyes on the recruiting trail, as they’ve hosted a number of key prospects. In addition to the visits, the Buckeyes picked up three commitments this month, bringing their total to 16 for the class of 2026.

Currently, Ohio State has just one defensive line commitment with four-star defensive end Khary Wilder. The Buckeyes are working hard to add a second pass rusher, but they may have to fend off their biggest rival to do so.

Ohio State vs. Michigan in battle for elite pass rusher Carter Meadows

Four-star defensive end Carter Meadows has recently taken official visits to both Ohio State and Michigan. The elite pass rusher is a top priority for both programs. Ohio State was heavily pursuing four-star DE Luke Wafle, but after his commitment to USC, the Buckeyes have turned their attention elsewhere. According to On3’s Steve Wiltfong, this recruitment is shaping up to comedown to college football’s two biggest rivals.

Meadows, a 6-foot-6, 225-pound edge rusher, will need to add some weight at the college level, but his game is impressive. Ohio State has traditionally recruited the DMV (D.C., Maryland, Virginia) area well, and Meadows would be another big-name addition from that region. 

According to the 247Sports Composite, Meadows is ranked as the No. 9 edge rusher and the No. 72 overall prospect in the 2026 class.

Defensive line coach Larry Johnson is heading into a crucial few months in the 2026 cycle as the Buckeyes aim to land a top-tier haul. If Ohio State can secure Meadows, he could end up being the crown jewel of this defensive line class.

This article first appeared on A to Z Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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