Ohio State climbs in On3 Industry Team Recruiting Rankings

Ohio State notched its latest win on the recruiting trail Sunday by landing a commitment from San Antonio (Texas) Veterans Memorial four-star running back James Peoples. He spent this weekend on a visit to Columbus.

Peoples’ pledge elevated the Buckeyes’ 2024 recruiting class to No. 3 in the 2024 On3 Industry Team Recruiting Rankings. Ohio State’s group, which also ranks No. 1 in the Big Ten, rose one spot from No. 4.

“Speaking with Ohio State, it’s a very special place,” Peoples told On3’s Chad Simmons on Feb. 9. “The coaching staff, from coach (Tony) Alford to coach (Ryan) Day, it’s a very special, loving staff. I’ve had the opportunity to speak with all their staff and they’re all very invested me and hearing things that they have to say, breaking down the things that they like and the constant communication that we’ve had, that place is special. 

“Ezekiel Elliott, you got so many staples athletes that go to that program to get developed and be successful. It’s a special spot.”

Peoples is the No. 86 overall prospect and No. 5 running back in the 2024 cycle, according to the On3 Industry Ranking, a weighted average that utilizes all four major recruiting media companies. He is also the No. 16 player in Texas.

The 5-foot-10, 195-pound tailback is currently scheduled to return to Ohio State for an official visit on the weekend of June 24. He chose the Buckeyes over Alabama, Oklahoma, Oregon, Texas and TCU.

Peoples strengthens Ohio State’s already strong 2024 class

Landing Peoples marks a big win for Day and his staff, especially since they did not sign a running back during the 2023 cycle. The Lone Star State native is currently the third-highest-rated member of Ohio State’s class behind Hollywood (Fla.) Chaminade-Madonna Prep Five-Star Plus+ wide receiver Jeremiah Smith and New Palestine (Ind.) four-star interior offensive lineman Ian Moore.

Other players committed to the Buckeyes include Sunbury (Ohio) Big Walnut four-star linebacker Garrett Stover and Toledo (Ohio) Central Catholic three-star interior offensive lineman Marc Nave. Meanwhile, Lakewood (Ohio) St. Edward four-star offensive tackle Deontae Armstrong and Lakewood (Ohio) St. Edward four-star offensive tackle Devontae Armstrong chose Ohio State on March 27.

Following Peoples’ commitment, Day and Co. are still after many talented targets. They include New Haven (Ind.) five-star wide receiver Mylan Graham and Fairburn (Ga.) Langston Hughes four-star quarterback Air Noland.