They are coming in a flurry, and that’s a good thing with the season less than a week away. It’s the right of passage in the Ohio State football program known as losing your black stripe. There’s already been a slew of Buckeye newcomers honored, and there were a couple more on Monday.
In addition to offensive lineman Jakob James shedding his black stripe, defensive back Ryan Watts was also recognized in a brief ceremony.
Watts came to Ohio State as a four-star safety out of Little Elm, Texas, and originally committed to Oklahoma before reconsidering and flipping to Ohio State. He’s expected to contend for a starting spot in the future, so getting into the program and going is huge.
“It’s an honor to be out here with y’all boys,” said Watts. “Shoutout to my hometown, shoutout to the strength and conditioning staff for getting me big. Shout out to BIA (Best in America), and coach Coombs, and shoutout to Buckeye nation. Go Bucks!”
Watch the brief video of the moment below.
🚨 Black Stripe Alert ‼️
Shoutout to @TheRyanWatts for losing the stripe! Welcome to #BIA 💪#GoBuckeyes pic.twitter.com/rgCZf7K65N
— Ohio State Football (@OhioStateFB) October 19, 2020
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