Five-Star Recruit Justin Scott Shocks College Football World with Commitment Flip to Miami Hurricanes
In a move that has sent shockwaves through the college football landscape, five-star defensive tackle Justin Scott has officially decommitted from Ohio State and pledged his future to the Miami Hurricanes. The decision comes just weeks before National Signing Day, leaving Buckeye fans stunned and Miami fans celebrating a monumental recruiting victory.
Scott, a 6-foot-5, 310-pound standout from Chicago, Illinois, had been a cornerstone of Ohio State’s 2025 recruiting class since his initial commitment last summer. Widely regarded as one of the top defensive linemen in the nation, Scott’s rare combination of size, speed, and technique made him a prized target for nearly every major college football program.
The Flip
The decision to flip to Miami reportedly stemmed from a combination of factors, including a recent visit to Coral Gables that left a lasting impression on Scott and his family. Sources close to the recruitment have indicated that Miami’s coaching staff, led by head coach Mario Cristobal and defensive line coach Jason Taylor, played a pivotal role in securing Scott’s commitment. Their vision for Scott’s development, coupled with Miami’s rising momentum in the recruiting world, ultimately swayed the elite prospect.
In an emotional statement, Scott explained his decision:
“Ohio State is an incredible program, and I’ll always have respect for Coach Day and his staff, but I had to follow my heart. Miami felt like home. Coach Cristobal and Coach Taylor showed me how I can make an impact not just on the field but in the community. I’m excited to be part of what they’re building down in Coral Gables.”
What This Means for Miami
Scott’s flip is a game-changer for the Hurricanes, who have been on a mission to return to national prominence. Landing a player of Scott’s caliber signals Miami’s ability to compete with traditional powerhouses like Ohio State, Alabama, and Georgia on the recruiting trail. He joins a 2025 class that is already being hailed as one of Miami’s best in decades.
The addition of Scott also addresses a critical need for the Hurricanes, who have struggled to maintain dominance in the trenches against top-tier opponents. With Scott anchoring the defensive line, Miami gains a player capable of disrupting offenses and setting the tone for years to come.
Impact on Ohio State
For the Buckeyes, Scott’s departure is a significant blow. Ohio State had high hopes for the defensive tackle as the centerpiece of their 2025 class. While they still boast a strong recruiting group, losing a five-star prospect so close to signing day leaves limited time to find a comparable replacement.
However, Ohio State is no stranger to adversity on the recruiting trail. Head coach Ryan Day and his staff have a proven track record of bouncing back, and the Buckeyes will undoubtedly turn their attention to other top defensive line prospects.
National Implications
Scott’s decision highlights the increasingly competitive nature of college football recruiting, where NIL opportunities, relationships with coaching staffs, and program trajectories can all play pivotal roles. Miami’s ability to secure Scott not only bolsters their roster but also sends a message to the rest of the nation: the Hurricanes are serious about reclaiming their spot among college football’s elite.
As signing day approaches, all eyes will be on Miami and Ohio State to see how this high-profile flip impacts both programs in the years to come. For now, though, it’s celebration time in Coral Gables, as the Hurricanes have landed one of the biggest recruits of the 2025 cycle.
