Ohio State May Pull Off a Bold Move—Right in LSU’s Own Backyard
Ryan Day and the Ohio State Buckeyes aren’t just coasting on past success; they’re already laying the groundwork for the 2027 recruiting class. While most of the nation’s attention is still locked on the 2026 prospects, Ohio State’s coaching staff is quietly making impressive progress with the next generation of standout recruits—especially those who are beginning to take their recruitment more seriously.
And that’s where things get interesting. One of the most talked-about names among 2027 prospects is Miguel Whitley, a lightning-fast wide receiver who has managed to attract attention from nearly every major program in the country. Standing at 6 feet tall and weighing around 180 pounds, Whitley has already earned 21 scholarship offers. But here’s where it gets controversial—according to a recent interview with Rivals’ Sam Spiegelman, Whitley says Ohio State and LSU sit neck and neck at the top of his list, with no clear leader between the two powerhouses.
LSU’s Backyard Battle: Can the Buckeyes Pull This Off?
Whitley currently stars for St. Augustine High School in New Orleans, located just over an hour from LSU’s campus in Baton Rouge. Naturally, LSU head coach Brian Kelly would love to keep a hometown talent like Whitley close, especially given Louisiana’s deep-rooted football culture and the Tigers’ reputation for producing elite wide receivers. But here’s the twist most people miss—Ryan Day has already proven he can successfully recruit inside Louisiana, a region many consider one of LSU’s strongholds.
Example? Look no further than five-star safety Blaine Bradford, who plays his high school football in Baton Rouge itself. Despite that—and the fact that his older brother played for the Tigers—Bradford committed to Ohio State and has repeatedly emphasized that he’s fully loyal to the reigning national champions. That recruiting win still stings for LSU fans and might just be a preview of what’s to come.
A Tough Choice for a Rising Star
According to 247Sports, Whitley is rated as a four-star recruit, ranked the No. 28 wide receiver nationally and the No. 11 player from Louisiana in the 2027 class. He’s got plenty of time before a final decision, but it’s already clear that LSU and Ohio State will be battling intensely for his commitment.
Choosing between the two won’t be easy. For a Louisiana native, playing for LSU has likely been a dream since childhood. The Tigers have a rich history of molding wide receivers into NFL-caliber talent, from Odell Beckham Jr. to Ja’Marr Chase.
But here’s where the debate heats up—Ohio State’s Brian Hartline has built perhaps the most respected wide receiver program in the nation. With players like Jeremiah Smith, who’s already being hailed as the next big thing headed to the NFL, Hartline’s reputation for developing elite talent is hard to ignore.
So, what’s Whitley going to do? Stay home and represent Louisiana pride at LSU, or take the leap and follow the Buckeyes’ proven path to NFL stardom? Buckle up, because this recruiting battle could get fierce.
What do you think—should Whitley stay loyal to his roots, or chase the bigger stage at Ohio State? Drop your thoughts in the comments and let’s debate it.
