Buckeyes Shocked as Elite No. 5 RB Flips to Texas on Independence Day
In a stunning recruiting development, four-star running back Bo Jackson from Cleveland Villa Angela-St. Joseph High School, ranked as the No. 5 running back nationally in the 2025 class, committed to the Texas Longhorns on July 4th, snubbing early favorites Ohio State.
Jackson’s decision sent shockwaves through the college football recruiting world, as many expected the Buckeyes to secure his commitment given their early interest and his Ohio roots. Instead, Texas landed a major coup, adding a premier backfield talent to their 2025 recruiting haul.
Standing 6 feet tall and weighing 205 pounds, Jackson possesses a blend of speed, power, and vision that has drawn admiration from scouts and analysts alike. His ability to break tackles and find seams makes him a threat both as a runner and receiver out of the backfield.
Ohio State had been heavily recruiting Jackson throughout his high school career, envisioning him as a cornerstone of their offense in the coming years. The Buckeyes’ recruiting staff invested significant time and resources courting the talented running back, and his commitment was seen as a likely outcome by many insiders.
However, Texas’ aggressive recruiting pitch, combined with their recent on-field success and attractive offensive scheme, clearly resonated with Jackson. The Longhorns have been building momentum in the 2025 cycle, and Jackson’s pledge adds fuel to that fire.
The impact of Jackson’s commitment extends beyond the numbers. For Texas, it strengthens an already talented backfield and sends a message to other elite recruits that the program is a destination of choice.
On the other side, Ohio State must now recalibrate its recruiting strategy. Losing a top-tier running back recruit from their home state is a significant setback, requiring a renewed focus on other prospects to fill the gap.
While the Buckeyes still boast an impressive 2025 class, Jackson’s departure leaves a noticeable void at a position that is critical to their offensive identity. Fans and coaches alike will be eager to see how the program responds in the coming months.
Recruiting battles like these are often decided by small margins—relationship-building, scheme fit, and program vision. Jackson’s choice underscores the competitive nature of college football recruiting, where no commitment is guaranteed until it’s official.
This surprise commitment also adds an exciting wrinkle to the Texas-Ohio State rivalry, with the Longhorns potentially gaining an edge in recruiting momentum as the 2025 season approaches.
Both programs will continue to chase top talent as national signing day looms, and Jackson’s pledge is just one chapter in a fast-moving recruiting saga.
Ultimately, Jackson’s decision will shape the trajectory of both programs’ backfields and may influence other recruits weighing their options, making July 4th a pivotal date in college football recruiting history.