Urban Meyer and the Buckeyes might have recently added verbal commitments from Grant Schmidt and Kevin Feder, but that doesn't mean they are sleeping on class of 2015 offensive linemen. Looking to bring in two or three more bodies up front, the big boys are once again playing a huge factor in the Ohio State recruiting efforts.
Over the last few months, the Buckeyes have had their fair share of prospects on campus for unofficial visits. One of the many talented recruits to make it to Columbus recently was three-star offensive tackle Branden Bowen.
"I loved my trip out to Ohio State. The things that stood out to me the most were the facilities and the coaching staff. The Facilities were unlike any other I've been to." Bowen, who traveled all the way from Draper, Utah to get more familiar with the OSU program, stated to Land-Grant Holy Land.
"I talked with Coach Warinner and Coach Meyer a lot and they were great. They're very likeable coaches, but they still are firm in letting me know that they'll make me into the best player possible by doing whatever it takes."
With offers already under his belt from the likes of Utah, BYU, Boise State, Colorado, Oregon State, and Washington State, the 6'7 330-pound Bowen was hoping to add a scholarship offer from the Buckeyes while mingling with the staff in Columbus last week. Even though he didn't officially receive an offer from OSU during his trip, Branden is confident things will work out in the end.
"Coach Meyer told me that if I wanted to be a Buckeye, he would make it happen." Bowen said. "I was told by my personal trainer (John Madsen), who is a former player and friend of Coach Meyer's, that it's a 'They'll offer when you're ready to commit' type of deal."
As he's trying to pinpoint what program he would like to spend the next few years at, the visits are far from over for the massive lineman. In the near future, Branden is trying to make it out to USC, UCLA, and Washington State. If he likes what he sees, he could very well commit on the spot.
"Right now, I'm looking to commit anytime between now and December. Just whenever I get that feeling of 'this is it'," he said. "I don't have any schools that stick out to me, although visiting Ohio State was a really big eye opener. As to what I'm looking for [in a program], first, I'm looking for a school where I can get a meaningful degree. Second, I'm looking for a school where I can play early. Third, I'm looking for a school that's family oriented and is strong in team unity."
