Recruiting in college football is more competitive than ever before, and it can take a lot of effort to stand out to prospects.
Schools roll out the red carpet for high school recruits, and an increasingly significant component of that equation is the uniform photo shoot. These are essentially universal at this point, but some are a bit more creative than others.
And Samson Okunlola is changing the game.
The five-star offensive lineman from Thayer Academy in Brockton, Massachusetts — otherwise known by his “alter ego,” Pancake Honcho — went viral on Friday after taking a midweek unofficial visit with the Florida Gators, thanks to an iconic pancake chef photo shoot.
5🌟OL Samson Okunlola’s visit pictures from his visit are top tier😮💨 pic.twitter.com/yCZlNZRhSi
— Florida Recruiting (@FLRecruits) November 18, 2022
As you’ve probably guessed, the nickname is a reference to the number of pancake blocks Okunlola racks up. As the No. 3 offensive tackle in the country in the 2023 class with a multitude of high-profile offers, his play certainly lives up to such a nickname.
It’s not the first time a school has put on a pancake-themed shoot for Okunlola, as he’s done the same during visits with Alabama and Michigan State, as well as others.
#GoGreen pic.twitter.com/WXXcDGeoJ9
— MSU Chief of Propaganda (@OdellBretthamJr) November 13, 2022
#GoGreen pic.twitter.com/WXXcDGeoJ9
— MSU Chief of Propaganda (@OdellBretthamJr) November 13, 2022
“Pancake Honcho” is Okunlola’s official brand and, presumably, will be used as a vessel for name, image and likeness deals when the time comes. One can only guess what direction he will decide to head in from a product perspective.
