4-Star Ryan Day Target torn between OSU and in-state ACC program 🏈🤔

Ohio State faces a rare recruiting duel with an underdog, as 4-star offensive tackle Qua Ford of East Texas currently lists OSU and SMU as his top two choices. Ford told Rivals’ Sam Spiegelman the decision is “50-50” between the Buckeyes and the Mustangs after both programs remained in his top five and now stand as the remaining contenders.

SMU has pushed hardest for Ford since 2024, leveraging strong Texas ties—19 of their 23 2026 signees hailed from the state. OL coach Garin Justice has built a persistent relationship with Ford, who said SMU has shown him “a big priority.” Ohio State, meanwhile, has been equally active, with offensive line coach Tyler Bowen prioritizing Ford after his visit to Columbus last year and even visiting Ford at home.

Ford’s official visits are scheduled for Dallas (May 1-3) and Columbus (June), giving both programs another opportunity to seal the deal. The 6-foot-5, 295-pound tackle has been a standout left tackle for a 12-1 team and is a former MaxPreps All-America selection, which would make him a cornerstone for the Buckeyes’ 2027 class if he commits.

For Ohio State, Ford would represent a premier top-10 interior and tackle pledge, potentially anchoring the trenches as the program pursues other high-end OL targets like Maxwell Hiller and Mark Matthews. The ongoing recruitment underscores OSU’s national reach and the Mustangs’ in-state appeal, keeping the outcome unpredictable as Ford weighs his options.