Ohio State wins battle for elite 5-star defensive lineman

[ASFN Admin]

Five-star defensive lineman Marcus Fakatou had his pick of college football royalty, with Georgia and Texas squarely in the hunt for the 6-foot-6, 275-pounder.

However, USA TODAY Sports and others reported that Fakatou will be taking his talents to Ohio State, as the star defender announced himself on Rivals' YouTube channel.

Fakatou spoke about the need to go somewhere that would maximize his potential, and called out Buckeyes defensive line coach Larry Johnson by name as a main reason for his ultimate landing spot.

"That played a big role when it came down to who I was picking," Fakatou admitted.

WATCH: Elite DL Marcus Fakatou commits to Ohio State

"Larry Johnson with the development that he's done over there with the Bosa Brothers, Chase Young, Kenny McDonald. That all spoke volumes to me." https://t.co/UYAhbVd6Y1pic.twitter.com/SGObsSotDy

— Rivals (@Rivals) June 29, 2026

Fakatou is transferring to Sierra Canyon High School to play out his high school football career, after playing his first three seasons at Orange Lutheran.

As a junior, he posted 69 tackles, seven sacks and two forced fumbles.

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This article originally appeared on College Sports Wire: Ohio State wins battle for elite 5-star defensive lineman

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