This is just the way college football works these days. Originally, all signs were pointing to Ohio State and Ryan Day landing 5-star EDGE transfer Chaz Coleman when he entered the portal. The Buckeyes got him in for an official visit this week, which had people talking.
Ohio State depth continues to erode with another player off to the portal
However, speculation this week has been flying that Ohio State is going the 'cheap route' in terms of the NIL package it is willing to put in front of the Ohio native. Teams like LSU, South Carolina and Tennessee are willing to break the bank for Coleman, who will be a game-changer for his new team after leaving Penn State.
Here's the thing, though: Coleman comes with a risk. Last season in limited action for Penn State, he posted six solo tackles, one sack and one forced fumble. Obviously, this potential is there for him to be a superstar, but is it worth the gamble for the Buckeyes when there are other needs? Nope.
Ohio State football can't afford to overpay for 5-star transfer Chaz Coleman
Normally, people would be quick to blast Ross Bjork for not putting Ohio State in a strong position to succeed. He's been known for costing the Buckeyes some targets for not putting enough dough on the table.
In this case, though, Bjork shouldn't get into an overpriced bidding war like this. If Tennessee and Josh Heupel want to give Coleman an unreal bag to reunite him with Jim Knowles, then so be it. While we get that Coleman is the No. 1 target for a lot of people, again, Ohio State can't afford to give him a ludicrous amount of money.
There are other needs, including retaining prized young running back Bo Jackson. Rumors have been flying that Jackson could leave for the portal if he doesn't get an improved NIL deal. That's something Bjork and Day must avoid at all costs.
Lane Kiffin has been spending like a mad man too, so if he wants to overpay for Coleman, so be it. The same can be said for Shane Beamer. The thought of the talented pass-rusher making plays for Matt Patricia has people excited, but in this case, walking away may be what's best for the program. If that does happen, Ohio State supporters shouldn't go after Bjork for this one. It won't be his fault at all.