One of Ohio State’s top defensive line commitments in the 2027 class is planning an official visit of sorts to a rival program. Five-star defensive lineman Marcus Fakatou intends to be in Austin when the Buckeyes face Texas on September 12.
The Sierra Canyon (California) standout committed to Ohio State at the end of June, choosing the Buckeyes over Georgia and Texas. He remains committed, but he is keeping the door open with the Longhorns.
What Happened
Fakatou confirmed his plans to attend the game.
“I’ll be at the Texas-Ohio State game,” he said. “Coach (Will) Muschamp and coach (LaAllan) Clark have kept contact with me since I committed. They haven’t broken it. Even though I’m committed, that shows a lot of love from their side so it’s only right I go show them love, too.”
LaAllan Clark previously worked at Ohio State under defensive line coach Larry Johnson before joining the Texas staff. That prior connection has helped the Longhorns maintain contact even after Fakatou’s commitment.
Why This Matters
Ohio State has assembled one of the strongest defensive line groups in the 2027 cycle. Fakatou headlines a class that also includes five-star EDGE D.J. Jacobs, four-star EDGE Wyatt Smith, and four-star defensive tackle Karlos May. His commitment was viewed as a significant win for Larry Johnson and the Buckeyes’ staff.
A visit to Texas while the Buckeyes are in town does not equal a decommitment, but it keeps the relationship active. In modern recruiting, committed prospects sometimes take visits to other schools, and programs continue to recruit them until they sign.
Key Details Fans Need to Know
Fakatou is a 6-foot-6, 275-pound defensive lineman with the versatility to play inside or outside. His size and athleticism give him the potential to contribute early once he arrives in Columbus.
Texas finished third on his final list behind Ohio State and Georgia. The Longhorns also landed his Sierra Canyon teammate Kasi Currie, adding another layer of familiarity.
Ohio State’s defensive line recruiting under Larry Johnson remains a major strength. Maintaining Fakatou’s commitment through the fall and into the early signing period will be important for the class’s final ranking and long-term depth up front.
What Happens Next
Fakatou’s presence in Austin on September 12 will be closely watched by both fan bases. Any further comments after the game, or additional visits, could clarify whether the Texas relationship is purely respectful or something more.
As long as the interest remains at the visit stage, Ohio State appears to be in a solid position. The Buckeyes will continue building the rest of the 2027 class while monitoring their current commitments.
The Bigger Picture
High-level recruiting in 2026 and beyond often involves ongoing contact even after verbal commitments. Programs with strong assistant coach relationships, such as Clark’s prior time under Johnson, can maintain leverage longer than in previous eras.
For Ohio State, the 2027 defensive line haul is already impressive. Keeping the top pieces locked in through signing day will determine whether it ranks among the nation’s best position groups in the cycle.
FAQ Section
Is Marcus Fakatou still committed to Ohio State?
Yes. He has stated he remains committed while planning to attend the Texas game.
Why is Fakatou visiting Texas?
He cited the continued contact from Texas coaches Will Muschamp and LaAllan Clark as the reason he wants to show them respect by attending the game.
Who is LaAllan Clark?
Clark is a Texas assistant who previously worked at Ohio State under defensive line coach Larry Johnson.
How important is Fakatou to Ohio State’s 2027 class?
He is a five-star defensive lineman and one of the headliners of a strong defensive line group that also includes D.J. Jacobs, Wyatt Smith, and Karlos May.
When do the Buckeyes play at Texas?
September 12, 2026.
Reader Question
Does Marcus Fakatou’s planned visit to Texas concern you as an Ohio State fan, or do you see it as standard modern recruiting?
