Four-star Malik Hartford stays in-state, picks Ohio State

1 of the nation’s top rated ATH recruits, Malik Hartford, will be keeping household and participating in for the Ohio State Buckeyes. The West Chester (OH) Lakota West standout named a remaining seven of Michigan, Michigan State, Notre Dame, Ohio Condition, Cincinnati, Kentucky and West Virginia in February prior providing his pledge to the Buckeyes now.

Hartford is at the moment mentioned as an ATH by Rivals, but will be enjoying Security for the Buckeyes. He is also a standout on specific groups.

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Hartford on why he chose Ohio Point out and why he produced the choice now.

“I selected Ohio State simply because I appreciate their plan as a entire, and me and mentor Eliano are limited. I know I will suit effectively in their plan. I selected to do it now because I just knew I needed to be a Buckeye.”

On how they plan on making use of him within just the protection.

“They see me fitting at any of the protection positions. They see my length, and versatility, and assume I can in good shape anyplace.”

On how his relationship with mentor Perry Eliano impacted his final decision. Eliano was the to start with to present Hartford when he was coaching at Cincinnati.

“Being aware of mentor Eliano undoubtedly made me extra comfy.”

Hartford on what he is on the lookout ahead to most when it comes to his upcoming at Ohio State.

“I’m searching ahead to competing in opposition to all the expertise out there, and studying from the quite most effective. I want to get the whole Buckeye working experience.”

Hartford’s message to the Ohio State supporters.

“My information to Ohio Condition fans. We will acquire a Nationwide Championship whilst I’m there.”

Hartford gets dedication No. 6 for Ohio Condition and a great addition to a class that is currently ranked eighth and will probably go up in the rankings following his pledge. He also gets the the fifth four-star commit in Ohio State’s 2023 course.

Hartford is the style of participant that will get you excited when you change on the movie. He is a jack of all trades and performs like his hair is on hearth. He has 1 speed and that is 100% at all times. Hartford is extended and athletic, but will require to increase some mass to his body in a college or university weight plan. His physicality, instincts and massive play means are just a couple of of Hartford’s finest characteristics. He arrives with poor intentions on each individual engage in.

This is a big 1 for the Buckeyes as Hartford’s recruitment blew up, but they were being able to preserve a single of the state’s greatest gamers at household in the close.