When Alabama head coach Nick Saban retired, it opened up a bit of an exodus from the program that Ohio State took advantage of. The Buckeyes not only convinced the No. 1 quarterback in the 2024 recruiting class to transfer to Columbus, but also the Tide’s starting center, and arguably the best player on the defense in Tuscaloosa, safety Caleb Downs.
It was the last player on that list that was a bit of a surprise to land on the banks of the Olentangy. In fact, many believed he was headed to Georgia who seemed to have the inside track.
But that’s not what happened obviously. Downs chose Ohio State in the end, and many thought it had a lot to do with name, image and likeness money. Good thing then that Downs was asked why he chose the Buckeyes during a media session on Tuesday. According to him, it was pretty simple, really.
“I just love the program here,” Downs said. “I love Coach (Tim) Walton and what the people had to say around here. I believe in Coach Day and I believe in this team … “I just felt like (going to Ohio State) was the best decision for me. At the end of the day, everybody’s got to do what they needed to for themselves.”
SAF @caleb_downs2 on why he came to Ohio State over others 🗣
“I just love the program here. I love Coach Walton and what the people had to say around here. I believe in Coach Day and I believe in this team.”@OhioStateFB | #GoBucks pic.twitter.com/sILDZhe3oY
— Ohio State Buckeyes 🌰 (@OhioStAthletics) January 30, 2024
As a refresher, Downs has a connection with Walton. His father grew up with him, so there was that bond already, one that almost led to Downs picking Ohio State when he was recruited out of high school.
Bottom line; Downs is here now and he’s ready to get to work on being one of the best defenses in the country, even better than last season.
“I expect us to be one of the best,” Downs said. “I expect us to excel and be better than they were last year. I expect us to be elite.”
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