CFB insider reveals potential landing spots for no. 1 OT David Sanders Jr.

By Aman Sharma

Modified Aug 09, 2024 14:47 GMT

As the countdown to Aug. 17th begins, the anticipation surrounding David Sanders Jr.'s college commitment has reached a fever pitch. He is the nation’s top-ranked offensive tackle and the No. 2 overall prospect. Sanders Jr. is preparing to reveal his college decision, and the race to secure his talent has narrowed to three frontrunners: Tennessee, Ohio State and Nebraska.

The competition for Sanders Jr. has been intense, with each program gaining momentum at different stages of the recruitment process. According to insights from Steve Wiltfong of On3, Tennessee, Ohio State and Nebraska are now leading the charge as Sanders Jr. nears his decision.

Wiltfong elaborated on the situation:

“He could end up at three schools: Tennessee, Ohio State, Nebraska.” Obviously we’re now in the home stretch, he’s going to commit on the 17th. To my knowledge, no final decision has been made, no school has been alerted, they’re still having dialogue with all three of them and these programs are going to get the chance to make a final pitch.”

The Volunteers have a strong case, as Sanders Jr. has visited Tennessee five times this year alone. His connection with Tennessee quarterback commit George MacIntyre has only solidified his relationship with the program. However, the Buckeyes remain a contender, having hosted Sanders Jr. on multiple visits and maintaining consistent communication with the star player.

Late-entrant Nebraska has made a significant impact during Sanders Jr.'s two visits to the campus, bolstered by the efforts of freshman quarterback Dylan Raiola.

Top 3 schools vying for no. 1 OT David Sanders Jr.

Talking to On3, the nation’s top-ranked offensive tackle presented each with strong ties and compelling cases.

#3 Ohio State

Ohio State has hosted Sanders Jr. multiple times this year and holds the No. 2 spot in the On3 Recruiting Prediction Machine (RPM). Sanders has been impressed by Ohio State’s reputation for producing elite offensive tackles. Reflecting on his experiences, Sanders shared:

"Obviously, they’re known for making great offensive tackles... I can go there and do the same thing." He holds Ohio State's offensive line coach, Justin Frye, in high regard, stating, "He’s shown that he can develop guys and push them to the next level."

#2 Tennessee

Tennessee has been involved in Sanders Jr.'s recruitment since he was in middle school, and he has visited Knoxville more frequently than any other campus. Sanders has praised Tennessee’s coaching staff for their personal touch, saying:

"Coach Heupel and Coach Elarbee do a great job with that personal connection. I think out of anybody, they do the best job calling, texting, just staying in contact with my parents and building that relationship."

#1 Georgia

Georgia has long been a frontrunner for Sanders Jr., with his visits to Athens leaving a lasting impression. Sanders Jr. appreciates Georgia’s direct path to the NFL, noting:

"Georgia is Georgia. You want to go there, go to the NFL, that’s the place to go."

As Aug. 17th approaches, the college football world waits with bated breath to see where Sanders Jr. will ultimately take his talents.