Ohio State is gearing up for a significant transfer portal visit this weekend, following their high-stakes showdown against Texas in the Cotton Bowl. The stakes couldn’t be higher, as the winner will advance to the National Championship to face either Penn State or Notre Dame.
As the College Football Playoff intensifies, recruiting efforts remain relentless. Fresh off impressive victories over Tennessee and Oregon, the Buckeyes are widely regarded as favorites to claim the championship. Ohio State’s roster, arguably the most complete in college football, has hit its stride at the perfect moment, with both offense and defense firing on all cylinders.
Despite their playoff run, Ohio State’s coaching staff is keeping a sharp focus on strengthening their roster for the future. According to Bucknuts 247, the Buckeyes are set to host one of the top players in the transfer portal this weekend—offensive lineman Conner Moore. The highly sought-after prospect recently entered the portal and has already drawn significant interest from top programs.
A native of Ohio, Moore began his collegiate career at Montana State, where he earned Freshman All-American honors. Standing at an imposing 6-foot-5 and weighing 310 pounds, Moore has the versatility to play either guard or tackle, making him a valuable asset for any team. With two years of eligibility remaining, Moore’s potential impact could be transformative for Ohio State’s offensive line. His size, skillset, and NFL-caliber talent make him one of the most intriguing prospects in the portal.
The Buckeyes have already bolstered their offensive line through the portal by securing commitments from Rice transfer Ethan Onianwa and Minnesota transfer Phillip Daniels. However, Ohio State faces a critical offseason as they prepare to replace both starting offensive tackles. Donovan Jackson and Josh Fryar are expected to move on, with Jackson stepping in for the injured Josh Simmons, who is projected to be a first-round pick in the upcoming NFL Draft. The addition of a player like Moore could provide the depth and versatility needed to solidify the unit for the upcoming season.
Moore’s Ohio roots could play a pivotal role in his recruitment. The opportunity to return home and contribute to a powerhouse program like Ohio State may prove too enticing to pass up. Offensive line coach Justin Frye would undoubtedly welcome Moore’s versatility, which could help address multiple positional needs as the Buckeyes retool their offensive front.
While the team’s immediate focus is on defeating Texas and earning a spot in the National Championship, this weekend’s visit by Moore is a crucial storyline to monitor. Balancing playoff aspirations with transfer portal recruiting underscores the Buckeyes’ commitment to sustaining success both now and in the future.
