A week after visiting Alabama, four-star Englewood (Colo.) Cherry Creek offensive lineman Jackson Roper was back on the road to see Ohio State.
Roper is one of the top offensive line recruits in the Mountain region and is currently rated a four-star prospect and the No. 227 player nationally in the Rivals Industry Ranking.
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“This was my first time on campus at Ohio State and it was an awesome experience,” Roper said. “The staff prepared an amazing game day schedule and we had to catch the 5:00 AM flight out of Denver to make it on time.
“Upon arrival we were able to tour the facility and meet with coach (Ryan) Day, coach (Tyler) Bowen and the GM, Mr. (Mark) Pantoni. It was great to learn more about the program and gain a better understanding about how I fit into their ‘27 class and beyond.”
Roper said even on a game weekend, they were able to spend quality time with the staff .
“We got a lot of time with Coach Bowen,” Roper said. “He really helped me understand what it takes to be a guy at Ohio State.
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“I really appreciated the staff and support personnel for maximizing our time and making the most of our ability to get in early. This is the kind of program that I’m looking for.”
The game environment was another highlight for Roper.
“I hadn’t heard a lot about the pregame traditions at Ohio State but attending my first “Skull Session” was something I won’t soon forget,” Roper said. “Even though the game wasn’t exactly competitive, it was great to see the line just dominate and take the fight to UCLA on every play.”
Roper was back on campus Sunday for a tour and more meetings.
“The coaches had us back to the facility on Sunday morning,” Roper said. “There were presentations from the strength staff, Sports Science department and health and nutrition. It really highlighted the attention and detail that goes into every aspect of coach Day’s program.
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“We heard the words expectations and accountability more than once this weekend. It’s obvious every single person in that building knows nothing short of playing for a National Title is acceptable.”
Roper said he’s done with unofficial visits for now and focused on the rest of his football season.
“I don’t have anything else planned,” Roper said. “We have playoffs right now and that’s where my focus is at but the goal is to narrow my list down to five by January and then we’ll from there.”
