Klein has been OSU's biggest pitchman for class of 2009
By JOSH HACHAT Sports Writer August 3, 2008
Licking Valley's Storm Klein was the second commitment for Ohio State's 2009 recruiting class, which currently stands at 24 verbal commitments. Klein has been talking with possible recruits about coming into the fold. (Advocate file photo)
HANOVER -- Storm Klein was the second football player to commit to Ohio State for the 2009 recruiting class, giving him ample opportunity to urge other top talents to become a Buckeye.
His pitch has been anything but complicated.
"It's Ohio State," Klein said. "All you have to say is Ohio State."
That was good enough for the Licking Valley senior, and it apparently has been good enough for a host of others for 2009.
OSU already has 24 verbal commitments for next season, just one away from the scholarship limit of 25. Klein made his decision in fall 2007, and although his commitment was considered early, others filtered in quickly and furiously.
The class features eight of the nation's top 100 players and generally is considered the top class for 2009 with several months to go.
"It's a big class. I'm excited about it," said Klein, who was an All-Ohio selection last season in leading the Panthers to the Division III state title game. "I was the second one to commit, and it's been neat to meet all these kids.
"We've landed some big names already. That's good for us, though. We know they're going to be Buckeyes. There's a lot of talent out there, and it's good to know a lot of them are going to be Buckeyes."
Being second, Klein, who likely will play linebacker for the Buckeyes, said he feels good to be part of such a strong class.
He's met almost every recruit and considers it a close-knit group, even if they are a year away from officially hitting the practice field together.
But some -- Klein included -- might not wait that long.
He hopes to graduate from Valley in January, then immediately head to OSU for winter and spring workouts, as well as the spring game.
Klein said if he's not in Columbus by January, then he'll hope for March, when he still could take part in spring practices.
