We have been diving into some of the more highly touted recruits in Ohio State history. We recently discussed the quarterbacks, running backs, wide receivers, tight ends, offensive tackles, guards, center and defensive ends but we wanted to look into the history of recruiting defensive tackles.
There are some very interesting names on this top-five recruiting list and even though 247Sports only goes back to 2000, there are some memorable names. It is always fun to reflect on how some of these guys performed and whether or not they lived up to expectations. This list only confirms the insanity of talent Ohio State has had at the defensive tackle position and some of the interesting guys that just missed the cut are Quinn Pitcock, future NFL center, Billy Price and Cameron Heyward. Let’s dive into the list.
1
Taron Vincent, Class of 2018
247Sports Composite Rating .9884
Taron Vincent was a monster recruit from the state of Florida, and he took advantage of the COVID-19 year to remain a Buckeye for six seasons. He never really lived up to expectations, but time will tell how his NFL career will unfold.
Here’s another great Taron Vincent clip. He flows/fights over the top of blockers so well with excellent hand usage.
pic.twitter.com/3P0IONA12F— Matt Wilson (@CoachWilson66) February 23, 2023
2
Alphonso Townsend, Class of 2000
Explosion welcome former Michigan State Offensive & Defensive Lineman Alphonso "Biggy" Townsend to the team! pic.twitter.com/x5GORmYFwu
— Lima Explosion (@LimaExplosion) February 27, 2013
247Sports Composite Rating .9847
Alphonso Townsend never played a snap for Ohio State as he enrolled in Fork Union Military Academy prep school instead and then committed to Michigan State during the next signing period.
3
David Patterson, Class of 2003
247Sports Composite Rating .9755
David Patterson had a solid career during his time as a Buckeye and earned All-Big Ten honors before going undrafted in 2007.
4
Michael Hall Jr., Class of 2021
247Sports Composite Rating .9742
Michael Hall Jr. will be a true junior this season and big things are expected of Hall for 2023 after he showed some impressive flashes in 2022.
Can't wait for this Michael Hall Jr. to be unleashed the entire season 😤pic.twitter.com/hOkMuMweQ7 https://t.co/GWAAti6tcl
— 🌰🏈🏆 4 DH7 (@Buckeye_Zone6) March 28, 2023
5
Michael Bennett, Class of 2011
247Sports Composite Rating .9736
Michael Bennett was a solid player at Ohio State who played significantly as a freshman but was slowed as a sophomore due to injury. He finished as a two-year starter that included an All-Big Ten season before being drafted in the seventh round of the 2015 NFL draft.
#OhioState DT Michael Bennett has been selected in Round 6, Pick 180 by the Jacksonville #Jaguars #NFLDraft pic.twitter.com/82fMeTUquM
— The Buckeye Nut (@TheBuckeyeNut) May 2, 2015
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