How Michigan’s Shocking Playbook Derailed Ohio State’s Biggest Recruiting Coup Yet

Isn’t it something when the old guard that once dominated suddenly finds itself playing catch-up? Take Michigan and Ohio State—once, under Urban Meyer, the Buckeyes owned that gridiron rivalry. Fast forward to Ryan Day’s tenure starting in 2019, and it’s a whole new ballgame with Michigan snagging four straight wins. But here’s the kicker — it’s not just the scoreboard where Michigan’s pulling ahead; the Wolverines are out-recruiting Ohio State too. The latest coup? Landing 6-foot-6 pass rusher Carter Meadows from Washington, D.C., who chose the maize and blue over the scarlet and gray—and even big-name programs like Penn State and South Carolina. Meadows’ reverence for Michigan’s tradition speaks volumes, but it also raises a cheeky question: Is Ryan Day’s Ohio State turning into a team perpetually chasing shadows up north? As we edge closer to the 2025 season, one thing’s clear — this rivalry isn’t just about wins anymore; it’s about legacy, pride, and who controls the future talent pipeline. LEARN MORE

Michigan has topped Ohio State on the gridiron four seasons in a row. The Wolverines fell to the Buckeyes every year when Urban Meyer was coaching Ohio State. However, since Ryan Day took over in 2019, the Buckeyes have gone 1-4 against That Team Up North.

While Michigan has topped Ohio State on the football field four seasons in a row, the Wolverines have also taken down the Buckeyes in a recruiting battle.

On Sunday, Ryan Day’s program lost out to Sherrone Moore in a major recruiting battle.

Carter Meadows, a 6-foot-6 pass rusher out of Washington, D.C. announced his commitment on Sunday.

The four-star recruit chose Michigan over Ohio State, Penn State and South Carolina, among other programs.

“I thank God for guiding me through it all. I’M HOME. Go Blue!!” he announced.

Meadows was incredibly impressed by the history and tradition within the Wolverines program.

“I think their history of winning and tradition and upholding their standard of excellence in all walks of life, on the field and off the field that’s what makes it special,” he told On3 Sports.

BREAKING: Washington (DC) Gonzaga five-star edge commits to Michigan.

"I think their history of winning and tradition and upholding their standard of excellence in all walks of life, on the field and off the field that's what makes it special."

Story: https://t.co/RkgfHagYil pic.twitter.com/h2UoOC5g9v

— Steve Wiltfong (@SWiltfong_) June 29, 2025

It’s yet another big-time win for the Michigan Wolverines over Ohio State as we inch closer to the 2025 football season.