Ohio State recruiting: 5-star 2024 quarterback Dylan Raiola pledges to Buckeyes
While most college football recruiting efforts are focused on 2023, Ohio State just inked a pledge from one of the top players in 2024, as five-star quarterback Dylan Raiola committed to the Buckeyes.
Raiola is the No. 8 player in the 247Sports Composite rankings and the No. 1 overall quarterback prospect. He chose OSU over finalists Alabama, Georgia, USC, and Oregon.
The player surprised everyone with the announcement during his birthday party.
Standing at 6-foot-3 and 225 pounds from Chandler, Arizona, Raiola has made a name for himself as a superstar in the 2024 football recruiting class.
He passed for 3,241 yards with 32 touchdown passes and rushed for nine additional scores in 12 games as a sophomore.
"Power and velocity"
"With his sturdy lower body, he is able to generate power and velocity on his throws," according to 247Sports recruiting analyst Chris Singletary.
"As he continues to mature and grow, he could top the scales at 235 pounds. His athleticism is good and should improve as he develops throughout his career."
Big day for Ohio State
Raiola's commitment is a major addition for Ohio State under head coach Ryan Day, who was looking to get a head start in the race to sign 2024 prospects.
And given that players themselves often play a vital role in recruiting their fellow prospects, Raiola's pledge could result in other high school recruits making a decision in favor of the Buckeyes going forward.
Looking ahead
Raiola is likely to inherit Ohio State's starting quarterback position following the departure of current starter CJ Stroud and presumptive backup Kyle McCord.
Stroud is expected to depart for the NFL in 2023, setting up a year or two for McCord to take the position. Raiola and current true freshman Devin Brown are poised to compete for the starting role after that.
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