Two Big Ten Rivals Likely to Land 5-Star Alabama RB from Transfer Portal
One of the biggest names in the college football transfer portal emerged Friday afternoon, as Alabama Crimson Tide running back Justice Haynes announced his decision to leave Tuscaloosa. A former 5-star recruit, Haynes was ranked as the No. 24 overall player and the No. 2 running back in the 2023 recruiting class. Over two seasons with the Crimson Tide, Haynes appeared in 25 games, rushing 104 times for 616 yards and scoring nine touchdowns. According to Pete Nakos of On3, two Big Ten programs have emerged as the leading contenders to secure Haynes out of the portal.
The two frontrunners are none other than fierce rivals: the Ohio State Buckeyes and the Michigan Wolverines. Nakos notes that these perennial powerhouses are worth watching closely as Haynes navigates his transfer process. Ohio State is currently gearing up for a College Football Playoff matchup against the Tennessee Volunteers. However, with star running backs Quinshon Judkins and TreVeyon Henderson expected to declare for the NFL after this season, the Buckeyes face a major void in their backfield.
Similarly, Michigan is preparing for a similar situation, with Kalel Mullings and Donovan Edwards projected to leave the Wolverines this offseason. The rivalry dynamic adds an intriguing layer, particularly with the movement of running backs coaches this year. Michigan hired Tony Alford, who previously coached at Ohio State, while the Buckeyes brought in Carlos Locklyn from Oregon to fill the position.
Michigan has dominated the rivalry on the field in recent years, defeating Ohio State four consecutive times. This success has sparked calls for Buckeyes head coach Ryan Day to be replaced. Now, the two programs are set to clash off the field as they battle for Haynes’ commitment. Will Michigan extend its dominance, or can Ohio State regain an edge? Only time will tell.
