Ohio State Football Dealt Blow From Rival This Week
In a significant development for college football recruiting, five-star cornerback Elbert Hill has committed to the University of Southern California (USC) for the 2026 class, choosing the Trojans over Ohio State. This decision marks a notable setback for the Buckeyes, who had been considered the frontrunners for Hill’s commitment.
Recruitment Overview
Elbert Hill, a standout at Archbishop Hoban High School in Akron, Ohio, is widely regarded as one of the top cornerback prospects in the 2026 recruiting cycle. His recruitment garnered national attention, with numerous elite programs vying for his commitment. Hill’s decision to commit to USC over Ohio State is a testament to the Trojans’ effective recruitment strategy and the allure of their program.(upchelsea)
USC’s Recruitment Strategy
USC’s coaching staff, led by head coach Lincoln Riley and defensive backs coach Doug Belk, made Hill a priority target early in the recruiting process. Hill’s visits to USC left a lasting impression, with the coaching staff emphasizing how he would fit into their defensive scheme and culture. The Trojans’ commitment to developing top-tier defensive backs and their consistent communication with Hill played a crucial role in securing his commitment.(SI)
Ohio State had been considered the favorite to land Hill, given his Ohio roots and the Buckeyes’ strong tradition in developing defensive talent. Hill’s visits to Ohio State and interactions with the coaching staff were positive, and he had previously expressed admiration for the program’s culture and the opportunity to learn from experienced players. However, despite these factors, the Buckeyes were unable to secure Hill’s commitment.(Eleven Warriors)
Hill’s commitment to USC represents a significant loss for Ohio State’s 2026 recruiting class. As a top-tier cornerback prospect, Hill was expected to be a cornerstone of the Buckeyes’ defensive backfield. His decision to join USC may prompt Ohio State to intensify their recruitment efforts for other defensive back prospects to fill the void left by Hill’s commitment.(SI)
Elbert Hill’s commitment to USC over Ohio State is a pivotal moment in the 2026 recruiting cycle. It underscores the competitive nature of college football recruiting and the importance of effective recruitment strategies. As both USC and Ohio State continue to build their programs, Hill’s decision will undoubtedly have lasting implications for both teams’ defensive units in the coming years.
