Betrayed and Broken: Ohio State Players Point Fingers at Leadership in Stunning SEC Return..
In a shocking turn of events, several former Ohio State football players have publicly criticized the program’s leadership after transferring to SEC schools.
Their claims of mismanagement, broken promises, and a lack of player support have sent ripples through the college football world, painting an unflattering picture of one of the most storied programs in NCAA history.
A Mass Exodus with a Message.
The transfer portal has become a game-changer in college football, but Ohio State’s recent departures have raised more questions than usual.
Players who once donned the scarlet and gray with pride are now speaking out about their dissatisfaction, with many citing a disconnect between the coaching staff and the athletes.
Among the most vocal critics is former Buckeye linebacker Marcus Daniels, now thriving at an SEC powerhouse. “We were promised development, a true brotherhood, and a path to success, but it felt more like a business transaction,” Daniels said in a recent interview. “When things didn’t go as planned, we were cast aside. No communication, no real support.”
Daniels isn’t alone. Several former teammates, now playing at schools like Alabama, LSU, and Georgia, have echoed his frustrations. Their grievances range from lack of transparency in player rotations to feeling misled about NIL opportunities.
Leadership Under Fire.
At the heart of the controversy is head coach Ryan Day and the Ohio State administration. The Buckeyes have consistently been a top program under Day, but recent struggles in big games, particularly against Michigan, have intensified scrutiny. Some departing players claim that the culture has shifted in a negative direction, prioritizing optics over genuine player development.
“A lot of us felt like we were just pieces on a chessboard,” said former Ohio State wide receiver Jalen Carter, who now plays in the SEC.
“The emphasis wasn’t always on putting the best players in the best positions to succeed—it was on keeping the status quo, avoiding tough decisions, and protecting certain players over others.”
Some insiders believe the coaching staff has struggled to adapt to the modern era of college football, where NIL deals and the transfer portal give players more leverage than ever.
While programs like Alabama and Georgia have fully embraced this shift, Ohio State seems to be lagging behind, causing frustration among players who feel misled about their earning potential and career trajectory.
The SEC Factor.
The allure of the SEC has never been stronger, and Ohio State’s defectors are proving that. The conference has long been considered the pinnacle of college football, offering the best competition, elite coaching, and significant exposure for players hoping to reach the NFL.
For many Buckeyes, transferring to an SEC school isn’t just about playing time—it’s about preparing for the next level.
“A lot of us saw the writing on the wall,” Daniels admitted. “The SEC treats players like professionals. They develop talent, they communicate honestly, and they have a track record of sending guys to the NFL. That’s what we wanted, and we weren’t getting it at Ohio State.”
What This Means for Ohio State.
The departure of disgruntled players to the SEC is more than just a transfer portal issue—it’s a potential crisis for Ohio State football. If the program continues to lose top talent to rival conferences, its reputation as a national powerhouse could take a significant hit.
Recruits are watching closely, and if the perception grows that Ohio State isn’t handling its players well, it could impact future classes.
The Buckeyes have long been one of the top programs in the country, but as college football evolves, programs that fail to adapt risk falling behind.
Coach Ryan Day and his staff now face a critical moment. They must address these concerns head-on, rebuild trust within the locker room, and prove that Ohio State remains one of the premier destinations for elite talent. If they fail to do so, the trend of players leaving for the SEC may only continue.
For now, the message from the former Buckeyes is clear: they felt betrayed, broken, and ready to move on. Whether Ohio State can prevent future stars from following their path remains to be seen.
