In a surprising turn of events on Friday, former Alabama safety Caleb Downs, one of college football’s standout stars in the transfer portal, delivered a bombshell by choosing to commit to the Ohio State football program over Georgia. This decision dealt a significant blow to the Georgia football program, which had actively pursued Downs, making several attempts to convince him to join the Bulldogs. Despite their efforts, the 22-year-old safety opted to become a Buckeye, leaving Georgia in a difficult position.
Caleb Downs became a highly sought-after player in the transfer portal after his departure from Alabama following Nick Saban’s retirement. Ohio State’s successful recruitment of Downs is considered a major achievement, and Buckeyes fans have taken to social media to engage in banter with Georgia following this victory in the Downs sweepstakes.
Excitement echoed through Buckeyes social media channels, with one Ohio State news service, @tSilverBulletin, exclaiming, “BOOOOOOOOOM! Ohio State has landed superstar Alabama safety transfer Caleb Downs! The Buckeyes just snagged a prized prospect away from Georgia and added the best secondary player in the country.”
Max Olson of The Athletic also highlighted the significance of Downs’ commitment to Ohio State, noting, “Caleb Downs has committed to…Ohio State! The No. 1 player in the transfer portal goes with the Buckeyes over Georgia. Jim Knowles’ defense has a ton coming back in 2024 and adds a freshman superstar.”
Adding to Georgia’s woes, there were speculations that the hiring of defensive coordinator Travaris Robinson from Alabama was aimed at attracting Caleb Downs to the Bulldogs from the transfer portal. However, Downs’ decision to choose Ohio State over Georgia has intensified the disappointment for Kirby Smart and the Bulldogs.
Social media users didn’t miss the opportunity to point out the financial investment Georgia made in hiring Robinson, with one user noting, “Alabama paid Travaris Robinson $800,000 last season. Georgia paid him 1.3 million to lure in Caleb Downs. Caleb Downs chose Ohio State 🤣🤣🤣. Roll Tide Roll 🐘🐘🐘.”
While acknowledging that games are ultimately won on the field, the addition of Caleb Downs to the Buckeyes’ roster has led many to view Georgia as the losers in this particular deal. Despite the unpredictable nature of sports, Downs’ choice has undoubtedly left Georgia with an unfavorable outcome in their pursuit of this talented player.
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