Lombard (Ill.) Montini Catholic defensive lineman Garrett Goebel, one of the top line prospects in the Midwest and the No. 2 overall prospect in the state of Illinois, has been the target of a fierce recruiting battle between Ohio State and Michigan.
That battle has come to an end.
"Yes, I committed to Ohio State," Goebel said.
Goebel was highly pursued for many months and just recently was narrowing his focus to Ohio State and Michigan.
"It was stressful," Goebel said.
Goebel made his choice just a short time ago, earlier this afternoon.
"I was leaning to Ohio State, and then I decided today," Goebel said. "My parents and my uncle (Brian Goebel) backed me up 100 percent. They were really happy."
As of our conversation, Goebel had informed the OSU coaches of his decision but had not yet called Michigan.
"I talked to Coach Tressel and then all the other coaches as well," he said. "Coach Tressel was excited and he welcomed me to the family."
What made him pick the Buckeyes over the Wolverines?
"Everything from academics to the coaches to the players. You can't go wrong with Ohio State," he said. "I really liked a lot of stuff about Michigan, but I just felt more comfortable with Ohio State.
"I really like coach (Jim) Tressel and the other coaches and players there. I really like the Woody Hayes Facility. Really, I like everything about Ohio State."
The news was broken on message boards by Garrett's uncle Brian.
"My uncle has been on every visit with me," Goebel said. "He has really helped me with recruiting."
Also helping Goebel decide was Buckeye commitment Mike Brewster.
"I talk to him pretty often," Goebel said. "I've gotten to know him pretty well."
The two will look very good as teammates at Ohio State the next few seasons.
