Can Clemson Land Recruits from Ohio State Territory?
For years, Ohio State has dominated the Midwest recruiting scene, routinely securing top-tier talent from its own backyard. But with Ryan Day’s staff undergoing changes and the Buckeyes facing unexpected uncertainty, Dabo Swinney and Clemson are aggressively stepping into the fight. The Tigers might just pull off a few major flips.
It’s not often you see an ACC team go toe-to-toe with Ohio State on their home turf, but with the way things are trending, Clemson could steal some of the best talent from the Buckeye State.
The Targets: Riley and Guthrie, Clemson’s Offensive Line Wishlist
Two of Clemson’s biggest targets in this battle both happen to be elite offensive tackles from Ohio.
Maxwell Riley (Avon Lake HS, OH) – 4⭐ Offensive Tackle
- 6'6", 290 lbs | Top 100 national prospect
- Clemson vs. Ohio State battle
Buckeyes were the presumed favorite, but Clemson is closing in.
- Recruiting insiders have long assumed Riley would stay in-state with Ohio State. However, Clemson’s increased presence in his recruitment has made things interesting. The Buckeyes remain a strong contender, but Clemson is offering something different. The Tigers are pitching an elite offensive line development program with early playing time available.
👉 What MT thinks:
"Riley has the frame and athleticism to be an elite ACC tackle. His ability to play either tackle spot makes him a versatile addition for any program. If Clemson lands him, he could be a starter by year two."
Adam Guthrie (Miami Trace HS, OH) – 4⭐ Offensive Tackle
- 6'7", 300 lbs | Top 200 national prospect
- Mom is an Ohio State alum, but Clemson is pushing hard
- Could follow Riley if he commits to Clemson
Guthrie’s ties to Ohio State run deep, but coaching changes and shifting priorities in Columbus have given Clemson an opening. If Riley commits to the Tigers, Guthrie could follow suit, forming a dominant offensive line duo that would reshape Clemson’s future trenches.
👉 What MT thinks:
"Guthrie has the frame and power to be an All-ACC tackle. He’s a bit raw, but his ceiling is as high as anyone’s in this class."
Why Clemson Has a Shot
So why is Clemson suddenly a real contender for top recruits in Ohio? Here are three key reasons.
- Ohio State’s Coaching Changes Have Opened the Door
The Buckeyes have experienced significant staff turnover, leaving uncertainty in their recruiting efforts. Clemson is capitalizing, using its stability to sell recruits on a long-term vision.
Biggest Loss for OSU? Offensive Line Coach Justin Frye.
Frye was regarded as one of the top offensive line developers in college football. He left Ohio State for the NFL, joining the Arizona Cardinals as their offensive line coach. His departure leaves a massive void in Ohio State’s ability to build relationships with top linemen, especially recruits like Riley and Guthrie, who had built trust with him. Clemson’s offensive line coach Matt Luke has seized this opportunity, pitching himself as the perfect coach to develop top-tier talent for the NFL.
- Clemson’s Pitch is Different, and It Works
Clemson emphasizes development over quick replacements. The Tigers are selling recruits on the idea of being multi-year starters. With the right fit, Riley and Guthrie could play early, something Ohio State may not be able to promise.
- Winning Recruits at the Elite Retreat
Clemson’s Elite Retreat Junior Day on March 8th is the next big recruiting event. Both linemen are expected to make decisions soon after.
The Tigers have a track record of sealing commitments during these visits.
Will Clemson Pull Off the Steal of the Year?
Landing even one of these two Ohio linemen would be a major victory for Clemson. If Swinney somehow lands both, it could mark a turning point in the Tigers' national recruiting reach.
Ohio State doesn’t lose top talent from its own state often. However, if there’s ever been a moment where Clemson can pull off a recruiting heist in the Midwest, this is it.
🚨 What do you think? Will Clemson land Riley or Guthrie? Sound off below! 🚨