Ohio State’s football program continues to soar under head coach Ryan Day, boasting a perfect 7-0 record and sitting atop both the AP and Coaches Polls.
With each passing week, the Buckeyes are establishing themselves as a dominant force in college football, reminiscent of Alabama’s reign in recent years.
Their upcoming matchup against Penn State has fans buzzing, and adding to the excitement, Ohio’s own basketball icon, LeBron James, decided to make the weekend even more special for the Buckeyes.
On Sunday, Ohio State’s official account on X (formerly Twitter) shared that James gifted the team a pair of customized cleats designed in the school’s signature white, scarlet, and black colors. LeBron expressed his pride in supporting his home state’s top football program: “Ohio State means a lot to me… it’s always been fulfilling to me and an honor for me to be able to give back.”
Known primarily for his basketball career, James has a long-standing passion for football, having played in high school and maintained a deep appreciation for the sport.
This isn’t James’ first gesture toward Ohio State athletes. In previous years, he has gifted custom cleats and Beats headphones to the team, solidifying his role as a supporter of local talent. Despite skipping college for the NBA, LeBron has repeatedly mentioned that if he had attended college, it would have been at Ohio State.
While players are not required to wear the cleats in Saturday’s game against Penn State, the team is expected to showcase them as a nod to James’ generosity. Kickoff is set for noon at Ohio Stadium, with the Buckeyes favored by 20.5 points against the Nittany Lions.
Brian Hartline’s growing influence and future prospects
Off the field, Ohio State faces a potential coaching shake-up. Brian Hartline, the team’s offensive coordinator, has quickly become one of college football’s most respected young coaches.
Known for his elite wide receiver development and exceptional recruiting skills, Hartline has been instrumental in bringing top-tier talent to Columbus, including standout players like Jeremiah Smith. His success has made him a hot commodity in coaching circles, with speculation linking him to head coaching openings at programs like Penn State and LSU.
While Hartline has expressed a long-term interest in the NFL, his work at Ohio State has demonstrated his ability to develop elite talent and run a highly efficient offense. The Penn State game is particularly notable, as it places him in front of potential suitors for future positions.
Even if he remains in Columbus, the attention only strengthens his standing as one of the rising stars in college football coaching.
As Ohio State continues its dominant season, the combination of leadership from Day, the coaching brilliance of Hartline, and the support from hometown heroes like LeBron highlights the program’s commitment to excellence.
From the field to the sidelines, the Buckeyes’ 2025 campaign embodies both skill and inspiration, proving why Ohio State is at the pinnacle of college football.
Read the full article here
