🚨 “Ohio State Still Knocking? Analysts Say Buckeyes Aren’t Done Chasing Carter Meadows” 🚨

🚨 “Ohio State Still Knocking? Analysts Say Buckeyes Aren’t Done Chasing Carter Meadows” 🚨

The college football recruiting wars are never truly over until National Signing Day, and five-star edge rusher Carter Meadows is learning that firsthand. Just weeks after announcing his commitment to the Michigan Wolverines, Meadows remains at the center of drama, with whispers surfacing that archrival Ohio State could still be looking for an opening to flip the prized prospect.

According to Sports Illustrated’s Steve Wiltfong, Meadows’ recruitment may not be entirely closed, even though he publicly pledged to Michigan on June 29, 2025. Wiltfong suggested that the Buckeyes “aren’t done with the five-star’s recruitment” and could look to “squeeze back in” before the ink is dry on his National Letter of Intent.

Michigan Celebrates — But Stays Alert

When Meadows made his announcement, it was a landmark win for head coach Sherrone Moore and the Wolverines’ recruiting staff. Michigan secured one of the most highly sought-after defensive prospects in the 2025 cycle, beating out blue-blood rivals Ohio State, Penn State, and South Carolina.

But in the modern NIL-driven era, nothing is ever final until a player signs. Late pushes, lucrative opportunities, and constant communication can dramatically shift the recruiting tide. Michigan insiders insist Meadows is “solid” with the Wolverines, but the looming presence of Ohio State—who historically dominates in-state recruiting battles—cannot be ignored.

“Meadows’ commitment was huge for Michigan, but it’s not a recruitment you put in the drawer and forget about,” one Big Ten recruiting insider told Rivals. “As long as Ohio State’s involved, there’s always a chance.”

Buckeyes Refuse to Quit

Ohio State’s refusal to walk away is not surprising. Head coach Ryan Day has made it clear the Buckeyes will continue to fight for elite defensive talent, especially along the edge where game-changers can shift the balance of Big Ten clashes.

The Buckeyes had Meadows high on their 2025 board from the beginning, and losing him to Michigan was a stinging blow. But as Wiltfong noted, the Buckeyes aren’t closing the book: “Recruitments like this, you keep a line of communication open. If NIL factors change or if circumstances evolve, Ohio State will be there to make another push.”

For Ohio State fans, the idea of stealing back a recruit from Michigan would be the ultimate revenge play—especially after recent on-field disappointments against their bitter rivals.

The NIL Factor

No discussion of recruiting in 2025 is complete without considering NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness). Meadows, as a five-star talent with superstar potential, represents a multi-million-dollar opportunity for programs.

Michigan has been aggressive in structuring NIL packages to keep top recruits locked in, while Ohio State has leaned on its extensive booster network and major brand ties to lure talent. If the Buckeyes are serious about flipping Meadows, NIL opportunities could play a pivotal role.

“It’s not always about the money,” an anonymous Big Ten assistant coach explained, “but in today’s climate, NIL is always a part of the conversation. Meadows will have options, and schools like Ohio State won’t hesitate to put their best offers forward.”

Meadows’ Perspective

For now, Meadows has said all the right things. His announcement in June was heartfelt, thanking his family, coaches, and Michigan staff for believing in him. He emphasized loyalty and the chance to develop in Ann Arbor, following in the footsteps of elite defensive linemen like Aidan Hutchinson.

Still, the recruiting spotlight can be overwhelming for teenagers. Constant phone calls, texts, and visits test even the most firm commitments. If Ohio State applies pressure late into the fall, Meadows will once again find himself weighing loyalty against opportunity.

Michigan vs. Ohio State: The Never-Ending Battle

The possibility of Ohio State circling back into Meadows’ recruitment only adds more fuel to the fire of the sport’s greatest rivalry. These two programs already fight annually on the field; now, their battle spills into living rooms, recruiting visits, and NIL negotiations.

“It’s not just a football rivalry anymore—it’s a 365-day war,” said one longtime recruiting analyst. “Whether it’s flipping commits, NIL competition, or media buzz, Michigan and Ohio State are always trying to one-up each other. Meadows is the latest pawn in that chess match.”

What Comes Next?

The next few months will be telling. Meadows is expected to remain in close contact with Michigan’s coaching staff while taking his senior season of high school football head-on. But recruiting insiders will be watching closely for signs: an unexpected visit, new social media follows, or late chatter about potential Ohio State overtures.

For now, Michigan fans can breathe easy knowing Meadows remains committed. But if history has taught us anything, it’s that no commitment is ever truly safe when Michigan and Ohio State are battling for the same prize.

As signing day inches closer, one thing is certain: the Carter Meadows saga isn’t finished just yet.