We are still several weeks away from the season-opener getting here for Ryan Day and Ohio State, but you'll have to forgive us for looking ahead to some monster Big Ten clashes on the way. This includes a dance with Oregon on Nov. 7, and The Shoe will be rockin' for that one. Things are only made more intriguing with 5-star defensive back Casey Barner locking in a visit.
Mick Walker let Ohio State fans know about this update, and it's no question a huge one, as Barner is the No. 1 safety for the 2028 class. While Day is still working to put the finishing touches on the '27 class, '28 playmakers are a prime focus too, with Barner being a top target. Now come early November, Day is going to want to make sure his players put on a show with Barner and others in town:
BREAKING: Five-star safety Casey Barner — the No. 1 safety in the 2028 class — will visit Ohio State on Nov. 7 for the Oregon game, he tells @LettermenRow 🔝
— Mick Walker (@mickdwalker) August 14, 2026
Read: https://t.co/OUUhxpaiS6 pic.twitter.com/8fTRzejhdP
5-star DB Casey Barner has locked in a visit to Ohio State for the Oregon game
While more visits are still being set, fans can go ahead and assume that this is going to be a monster recruiting weekend for Day, as it's going to feature two of the top teams not only in the conference, but in the entire country. Imagine a packed stadium, with highly-touted recruits, for a showdown where Ohio State posts a convincing win over Lanning, who could use some humble pie at any point during the calendar year.
This would impress Barner, who also holds a scholarship offer from the Ducks. Might that give the Buckeyes the upperhand there? Now is not the time to jump to any conclusions or anything, but a strong showing for Ohio State vs. Lanning and Co. surely wouldn't hurt.
Landing Barner of course is not going to be easy, as he has picked up a mind-blowing 54 tenders thus far throughout his recruitment. No top schools have emerged, but it's telling that Ohio State has already managed to get this November visit locked in, as Barner must already be fired up for what's to come for him once he gets to campus.
According to the 247Sports Composite, Barner, a Powder Springs, Ga. product, is ranked five stars, the No. 1 safety in the nation, and No. 5 prospect nationally. Thus far, Day has four commits for the '28 class, with three of them being ranked five stars. While it's still way too early to think about Barner grabbing a seat at the table, Day has showcased he can land electric talent from all over the country. With that, Barner is going to be an elite prospect to follow closely, especially once the Oregon game gets here.
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