It has been slow going for the Ohio State football program in terms of gaining Transfer Portal commits. While they have had a couple of dozen players enter the portal, they have only brought in a handful of portal players to replace them. That also doesn't include players they will lose to the NFL Draft.
Still, the Buckeyes seem to be steadfast that their approach will work. They are worried about getting the right guys, not the flashiest guys. If they are going to compete for a national championship in 2026, they have to make sure the right guys produce in a big way.
Ohio State had a player commit to Wisconsin after entering the portal. Now, they have returned the favor by tacking a former Badger from Luke Fickell, although rumor has it that Fickell actually helped the Ohio State Buckeyes land linebacker Christian Alliegro.
Ohio State lands Wisconsin linebacker Christian Alliegro
Alliegro played three seasons for the Badgers. He started in each of the last two years and was a big contributor for Fickell. In the last two seasons, he has over 100 tackles and seven sacks. He can slide into a linebacker spot that will be missing both Sonny Styles and Arvell Reese.
This is the first time that Day has added someone from the Transfer Portal at a position of need. Alliegro fills one of the positions that is most important in Matt Patricia's defensive scheme. The Buckeyes still have some work to do, though. They need to add a cornerback, as well.
Ryan Day is not done with the portal, but some fans are getting a little antsy with the results thus far. This result is one that everyone in the fan base can celebrate. Alliegro is a good player, and adding him makes the Buckeyes better for next season.
Ohio State can thank Fickell for this, as well. He allegedly recommended playing for Day over playing for Texas, which was the other program Alliegro was considering.