Tennessee football is in a big time recruiting clash with Ohio State. The Vols are battling the Buckeyes for one of the best running back recruits in recent history, five-star David Gabriel Georges.
With both teams reportedly ramping up their pitches of NIL compensation, path to the field, jersey numbers and more, Tennessee’s new deal with adidas could play a big factor. In response, according to a report from Jeremy Birmingham on The Beat on 97.1 The Fan, Nike isn’t willing to do the same for Ohio State.
“Ohio State is reportedly, or I’ve been told, they’ve asked Nike if they can get involved,” Birmingham said. “And they said they don’t get involved with high school athletes. Which as we’ve talked about here before, is kind of stupid considering they could’ve had the opportunity to get a headstart on a guy like Jeremiah Smith.”
Jeremy Birmingham THIS MORNING on The Beat (97.1 The Fan)
Watch full: https://t.co/S9fhkEQCXG https://t.co/DEJYteI3bK pic.twitter.com/ZuV7Hrd45M
— Joey Petersen (@joeypetersen8) July 10, 2026
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Gabriel Georges is narrowing in on his decision, which is scheduled to be announced on July 22. He is deciding between the Buckeyes, Vols and Ole Miss after taking official visits to each and ultimately canceling his trip to Georgia.
According to 247 Composite, he is considered the No. 10 player in the class, No. 2 running back and top player from the state of Tennessee. Though initially from Quebec, he currently lives in Chattanooga, where he plays for Baylor School.
Tennessee currently holds 16 commitments in the 2027 class. This ranks as the No. 43 group in the nation and No. 14 in the SEC on 247.
The Vols have also stocked up on in-state talent. Other players from the state of Tennessee who are committed include four-star wide receiver Kesean Bowman, four-star linebacker Kenneth Simon II, four-star tight end Malik Howard, four-star offensive tackle Princeton Uwaifo, three-star safety Jaden Butler, three-star cornerback Brandon ‘Slim’ Leavell, three-star linebacker JP Peace and three-star wide receiver DaYon Cooper.
