The Granddaddy of them all, the Rose Bowl, has started. And if there’s one thing Ohio State does better than scoring early touchdowns, it’s stacking talent for the future. The Buckeyes have hit the Rose Bowl like a tidal wave, dominating the Oregon Ducks 38-5 in the first half. But while Ryan Day and his Bucks were lighting up the scoreboard, the sidelines at Pasadena were a star-studded showcase of five-star recruits for both the Bucks and Ducks in the pregame soaking in the atmosphere of CFB royalty. Yet, stood-put was the No. 1 CB in the nation, and representing North Shore high, in his own unique way, shows his excitement for the game that is already a natty worthy.

Among them was Devin Sanchez, the No. 1 cornerback in the 2025 class and a prized commit for the Buckeyes. The North Shore Mustang left salivating from the sidelines, with other notable recruits, who can’t wait to put the receivers in lock down next season. Devin Sanchez posted a dreamy picture on his Instagram story before the game, of his Ohio State jersey, sitting pretty, waiting for him to rock the iconic scarlet #4. No caption was needed; the image alone said it all. With a dreamy glow and an unmistakable vibe and just scarlet and white, that screamed, “This is where I belong.”

The excited Bucks #4, already a household name in high school football, is more than a promising recruit. The North Shore Mustang’s résumé reads like a checklist for a future college star: District 21-6A first-team honoree, a member of the 247Sports’ 2025 Freaks List, and a MaxPreps High School Football All-American. With 57 tackles, 29 pass breakups, nine interceptions, and two forced fumbles as a junior, Devin Sanchez isn’t just locking down receivers—he’s erasing them from existence. His stats are as jaw-dropping as the glowing reviews from analysts who describe him as “instinctive,” “explosive,” and “unflappable under pressure.”

The bond the No. 1 CB in the nation has built with Ohio State defensive coordinator Tim Walton has been pivotal in solidifying his commitment. “Coach Walton understands me as a player,” Sanchez shared during his recruitment process. “It’s not just about football; it’s about making me better on and off the field.” Walton, who’s made Sanchez his highest-rated recruit since joining the Buckeyes, has found a protégé who embodies the program’s vision of discipline and excellence. For Walton and HC Day, Sanchez represents the next evolution of Ohio State’s defensive dominance—a blueprint for the modern shutdown corner.

And the timing couldn’t be better. With Columbus set to lose key defensive leaders to the NFL Draft, Sanchez’s arrival next season, with many other elites, will be perfectly aligned with a program that continues to reload rather than rebuild. He’ll get an early taste of the spotlight, soon at a prestigious Bowl, where he’s expected to showcase the same skills that have made him the nation’s top-ranked corner. It’s a preview of what’s to come, and if his high school career is any indication, college receivers should prepare for frustration on Saturdays.

Did you get your tickets for the Devin Sanchez concert?

Hope you caught your friendly neighborhood No. 1 CB, on this NBC Sports one-hour special a few days ago. If you didn’t don’t you worry. We got it covered with everything he said on the Navy All-American Dream. Devin Sanchez is gearing up to showcase why at the Navy All-American Bowl. The five-star talent from Houston’s North Shore High School has been on recruiting radars since his freshman year, and this stage is just another opportunity to show off his elite skills.

Reflecting on his journey, Sanchez shared how his rise to stardom has been years in the making. “It really started back in my sophomore year when I became an Adidas All-American,” he said. “San Antonio’s not too far from Houston, so that played a part. Plus, I get to compete with guys like my future teammate Tavien (St. Clair) and other All-Americans I know. It’s a chance to go against the best.”

He knows, this isn’t just a fun trip as for some it might be, but for Sanchez it’s a blend of competition and camaraderie. “It’s a little of both,” he explained. “The top guys in the country will be there. I want to have fun with them, but when it’s time to compete, I’ll get serious. Some of the best receivers will test me, and as the top corner, I’m ready to step up.”

Safe to say, Devin Sanchez is ready to lock things down in San Antonio! So, Bucks fans can expect a glimpse of his talent on Jan. 11 before he takes the field officially for Walton and Ryan Day. And now you know what number he’ll be donning.