In the new college football landscape, it's easy for people to just pack their bags and move to a new school. That was never going to happen with Ohio State linebacker Sonny Styles, who has meant so much to the program since he moved to Columbus in 2022.
Ryan Day provides updates on Jeremiah Smith and Carnell Tate for Michigan game
On Saturday, Styles was understandably emotional, as he played in his last home game for the Buckeyes. Ohio State cruised to a win over Rutgers, with Styles and Co. looking fantastic in front of the OSU faithful.
After the final whistle, Styles was spotted hugging coaches and teammates, but that wasn't all. As he was making his way back to the locker room, he was taking photos with fans on the field and delivering countless high-fives before making his way to the tunnel. This may not seem like a lot, but you already know this probably meant a ton to the future NFL superstar:
Sonny Styles walking off the field at the Shoe for the final time as a #Buckeye pic.twitter.com/QNODTT3FWB
— Nicole Shearin (@NicoleShearintv) November 22, 2025
Sonny Styles has meant so much to the Ohio State community
Styles signed with the Buckeyes as a 5-star prospect and he has lived up to the hype ever since. Things were of course highlighted by him winning the National Championship with the Buckeyes last season and now he's ready to help this team go back-to-back.
He and Arvell Reese have formed arguably the best linebacker combo in the country. They're the heart and soul in the middle of the defense and they play the game the right way - they play the game the Ohio State way and Matt Patricia is lucky to coach them up.
All in all, things have been perfect for Ohio State and this team is ready to go 12-0, but Michigan is of course standing in the team's way. Ann Arbor is going to be electric next Saturday, but Ohio State is going to be ready to answer the call. Then, the College Football Playoff and a first-round bye will be on the way.
Styles' main focus right now is on helping this team keep winning and also to get some revenge on the Wolverines. On Saturday, though, it's more than alright for him to celebrate his Senior Day victory and all of the great memories he's had at The Shoe. It goes without saying, but he'll be welcomed back with open arms whenever he wants to return home.