Buckeyes' Recruiting Class Of '09 Looking To Close Out With a Bang

Moving on, the next player essentially fell into Ohio State's lap as a direct result of Tennessee's hiring of Lane Kiffin as their next head coach.  Tajh Boyd out of Phoebus High School in Hampton, Virginia, was told by Kiffin that "you aren't our type of quarterback, and won't fit our system."  Boyd then decommitted and now is down to three schools: Ohio State, Oregon, and Boston College.

Boyd is an impressive quarterback prospect, and is one of the elite talent's at the position this year.  Watching his game film, he strikes a scary resemblance to former Ohio State quarterback Troy Smith, a player Boyd says that he idolizes.  Tajh has impressive arm strength, and is just a natural born leader with plenty of poise.  The mechanics are there, the legs to label him a dual threat are there, the only thing that may need improvement is decision making, as he tries to force things with his "live" arm.  Anyway you slice it, this kid is a serious talent as a signal caller.

Boyd recently visited Columbus with his family and thoroughly enjoyed spending time with the players and watching bowl practices.  He also made the long trip out to Oregon by himself and came away impressed with the facilities and setting. 

Here is another case where distance may be the biggest factor, but favors Ohio State this time.  Oregon presents the opportunity for immediate playing time but Ohio State would allow him to grow behind Pryor and also have close proximity to his family.  Boyd will be appearing in the Army All American game on January 3, and could very well make his decision at that time.  If not then, expect another National Signing Day decision from a top flight prospect.

Shifting focus now to the next player on the list, and certainly not one who lacks talent, is that of Marlon Brown, a wide receiver out of Harding Academy in Memphis, Tennessee.  Marlon is currently being wooed by a who's who of SEC football in Tennessee, Florida, LSU and Georgia, to go along with Ohio State.  Many feel that Georgia and Ohio state are the lead dogs for this prospect, and not in state school Tennessee.

Brown has impressive size at 6'5" and great speed, both of which make him a rare breed.  The do-it-all prospect is about as physical as you can find when going for that ball, using his body to shield the ball, as well as going over the middle with no hesitation.  His big hands and ability to out-muscle make him an ideal redzone target. 

The only downside to Brown's game isn't Brown himself, but rather his competition, or lack thereof.  While still very impressive, he will have to undoubtedly prove himself in the Under Armour All American game on January 4.  Brown has made it known that he is a National signing Day decision, so in the meantime, get a taste

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