When you are the No.1 CB in the nation while still in high school, you can chill for a while. But Ohio State Bucks couldn’t for today as the stakes were colossal: a playoff matchup against a roaring Tennessee crowd eager to invade Ohio Stadium. The Buckeyes delivered a statement, silencing critics and laying down a dominant 42-17 performance. But while Ryan Day and BIA’s basked in their redemption arc, soon-to-arrive star, Devin Sanchez had his playful take on his coach’s night’s gridiron theatrics.

A 5-Star+ corner with a personality as big as his talent. A cornerstone of Ohio State’s 2024 recruiting class, the North Shore High School kid is already finding ways to make his presence known—even before officially suiting up for the Buckeyes. Known for locking down receivers supply to leaving them starving for the football, shared an Ohio State boss’s reel of Ryan Day on his Instagram story, and teased his future coach with a playful caption: “ry ah presidential.” The clip, soundtracked by 50 Cent’s Many Men, featured Day in full aura mode, suited and booted, striding into Columbus like a man on a mission. It’s not every day a recruit throws a lighthearted jab at their head coach, but Devin Sanchez, well, he’s not just any recruit.

The North Shore Mustangs standout isn’t all talk, though. Standing at 6’2” and 170 pounds, Sanchez brings elite shutdown ability to the Buckeyes, a program already known for its defensive back pedigree. Widely regarded as one of the top cornerbacks in his class, Sanchez had offers from Alabama, LSU, Texas A&M, and Texas before committing to Ohio State earlier this year. His choice wasn’t just about football—it was about joining a program that could elevate his game to the next level. And with his flashy personality, he’s already fitting right into the Buckeye culture.

Ohio State, meanwhile, showed why it remains a magnet for elite talent. Against Tennessee, the Buckeyes turned the narrative on its head. Freshman receiver Jeremiah Smith etched his name into the history books, becoming the first freshman to eclipse 1,000 receiving yards in college history. He’s the blueprint, Sanchez would be telling his friends about the explosive WR, hinting at his aspirations when he arrives on campus. Smith’s performance, with two touchdowns and 103 yards, was a masterclass in route running, athleticism, and raw grit—a glimpse of what Sanchez hopes to replicate, albeit from the other side of the ball.

The playoff win was also a vindication for Ryan Day. Who’s faced relentless scrutiny following four straight losses to Michigan, so just let the 45-year-old Ohio State Bucks coach have him his moment. Tennessee fans were loud and brash, packing Ohio Stadium with over 30,000 supporters. But Day’s squad delivered, utilizing their weapons with surgical precision to dismantle Tennessee’s defense to punch their ticket to the quarterfinals to avenge their October 32-31 loss to the Ducks. It was the kind of moment that reminded everyone why Day still has the keys to the kingdom—and why Sanchez can’t wait to be part of the ride.

He, who thrives on competition, will soon have a chance to prove himself under Day and cornerback coach Tim Walton. His playful jabs aside, Sanchez’s commitment speaks volumes about Ohio State’s appeal. “Coach Walton knows how to get corners ready,” Sanchez said during his recruitment. Now, as he gears up for his arrival in Columbus.

How Devin Sanchez become buddy-buddy with coaches?

Set to enroll early in January, Sanchez will kick off his journey after playing in the Navy All-American Bowl in San Antonio on January 11. A top-tier talent from Houston, fell under Ryan Day and Bucks certain magnetic pull that no other program could match. Despite holding offers from some of the biggest names in college football—think Alabama, LSU, Texas, and Texas A&M—Sanchez always had an eye on Ohio State.

The Buckeyes made their move in January 2023, extending an offer that quickly piqued his interest. His first visit to Columbus came in April, and by the time he returned for a multi-day camp in June, it was clear that Ohio State wasn’t just a contender—they were the team to beat. “From that moment, I just felt like I belonged here,” Sanchez shared.

Fast forward to January 6, 2024, at the All-American Bowl, where Sanchez made it official. Reflecting on his decision, he credited his strong connection with cornerbacks coach Tim Walton: “The relationship I built with Coach Walton and seeing his track record, especially with guys like Denzel [Burke] and Davison [Igbinosun], gave me confidence he can develop me the same way.” A bond that’s so strong now he can joke with his HC, calling him a presidential candidate.