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Southwest Ohio all-district football teams are out. See where your favorite player lands

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4 months ago

November 13, 2025

Southwest Ohio all-district football teams are out. See where your favorite player lands

The Southwest District has selected its all-district teams for the 2025 football season.

The Ohio Prep Sports Media Association panel, which included multiple writers from The Enquirer and other Cincinnati and Greater Dayton media, selected the list.

Here are some key Cincinnati-relevant takeaways.

St. Bernard-Elmwood Place head coach Kyle Hogan is the Division VI coach of the year after leading the Titans to a 9-2 record and the league championship of the Miami Valley Conference-White Division.

North College Hill head coach Greg Conwell is the Division V coach of the year after leading the Trojans from a 3-6 record last year to 8-3 this season. Williamsburg senior Luke Czarnecki is the Division V defensive player of the year after leading a unit that allowed 72 points during the regular season, and only six total in four league games. He was the leading tackler with 91 (33 solo), including 9.5 for loss and an interception.

Taft swept the honors in Division IV. Quarterback Monsanna Torbert won the offensive player of the year, Adam Kirtley the defensive player of the year, Tyler Williams the coach of the year as they take an 11-0 record to Indian Hill Nov. 14.

In Division III, Talawanda head coach Andy Stuckert is the coach of the year after leaving the Brave to a 10-2 record and the second round of the playoffs. Senior running back Lance Cantrell is the offensive player of the year after rushing for 2,523 yards and 30 touchdowns.

In Division II, Anderson head coach Evan Dreyer is the coach of the year as he leads the 11-0 Raptors against La Salle Nov. 14. Anderson linebacker Brady Kuhn is the defensive player of the year, leading a unit that allows only 12 points per game. He is the leading tackler on the team with 92 stops, 45 solo, with seven sacks and 21.5 tackles for loss.

In Division I, Elder head coach Doug Ramsey is the coach of the year, and Panthers senior Derek Uran the defensive player of the year as they lead the 11-0 Panthers into a home game with Princeton Nov. 14. Lakota East senior running back Ryder Hooks is the offensive player of the year after rushing for 2,032 yards and 19 touchdowns, plus adding three receiving touchdowns and two return scores.

Hooks and reigning Ohio Mr. Football Matt Ponatoski are the Southwest District nominees for this year’s Mr. Football ballot. The winner will be announced during the state finals.

The All-Ohio teams will be released in December.

2025 OPSMA Division VII All-Southwest District Teams

Offensive player of the year: Turner Lachey, Sidney Lehman Catholic; Defensive player of the year: Isaiah Christian, Cedarville; Coach of the year: Dwane Rowley, Sidney Lehman Catholic

First-team offense

Backfield: Levi Guttman, Cincinnati Country Day, 6-2, 205, jr., QB; Ray Hoying, Fort Loramie, 6-4, 225, sr., RB; Turner Lachey, Sidney Lehman Catholic, 5-10, 170, sr., QB; Will Mossing, Cedarville, 6-1, 160, sr., QB; Jacob Schmitmeyer, Ansonia, 5-10, 175. jr., RB; Reece Wendel, Fort Recovery, 5-11, 180, sr., RB.

Receivers: Thomas Huckleby, Cincinnati Country Day, 5-7, 175, so.; Berkeley Little, Springfield Catholic Central, 5-10, 155, sr.; C.J. Olding, Sidney Lehman Catholic, 6-0, 175, sr.; Evan O’Leary, Sidney Lehman Catholic, 5-10, 185, sr.

Linemen: Lucas Donahue, Cincinnati Country Day, 6-2, 280, sr.; Oden Hoening, Ansonia, 5-11, 200, jr.; Jace Olding, Sidney Lehman Catholic, 6-2, 240, sr.; Hayden Stephens, New Miami, 6-2, 255, sr.; Drew Wilson, De Graff Riverside, 6-0, 230, jr.

Kicker: Nate Van Loo, Cedarville, 6-1, 170, sr.

First Team Defense

Linemen: Lucas Barlow, West Alexandria Twin Valley South, 6-4, 190, jr.; Sir Michael Miller, CCPA, 6-3, 225, jr.; Luke Wright, Lewisburg Tri-County North, 6-0, 180, jr.; Isaiah Johnson, New Miami, 6-1, 235, jr.; Matt Nye, Springfield Catholic Central, 6-0, 185, sr.Linebackers: Isaiah Christian, Cedarville, 5-9, 175, sr.; Frank Filbrun, Lewisburg Tri-County North, 5-7, 175, sr.; Noah Henry, New Miami, 5-7, jr.; Grady Jenkins, De Graff Riverside, 5-10, 170, sr.; Breaker Jutte, Fort Recovery, 6-4, 210, jr.; Will Robinson, Cincinnati Country Day, 6-1, 200, sr.Secondary: Ramik Bell, CCPA, 6-2, 190, jr.; Leon Hall, CCD, 6-0, 180, jr.; Mario Meatchem, CCPA, 5-11, 170, jr.; Brandon Proffitt, CCD, 5-8, 175, sr.; Bryant Richardson, CCPA, 5-11, 170, sr.Punter: Carson Krieg, South Charleston Southeastern Local, 6-6, 190, sr.

Second-team offense

Backfield: Peyton Fannin, Lewisburg Tri-County North, 5-8, 160, jr., RB; Marlan Robertson, CCPA, 5-9, 165, jr., RB; Lander Shives, Ansonia, 5-9, 195, jr., RB.

Receivers: Tanner Eilerman, Fort Loramie, 6-3, 175, fr.; Derek Orr, Cedarville, 6-3, 175, sr.; Kyle Wehrkamp, Union City Mississinawa Valley; 6-0, 170, sr.Linemen: Ty Houser, Union City Mississinawa Valley, 6-1, 240, jr.; Ramad Jacobs, CCPA, 6-1, 250, jr.; Bryton McNamee, New Miami, 5-11, 235, jr.; Bennett Woodyard, Lewisburg Tri-County North, 6-3, 195, sr.

Second-team defense

Linemen: Kaleb Bergman, Fort Loramie, 6-3, 205, sr.; Ty Hicks, Lockland, 6-3, 220, sr.; Jake Norris, Union City Mississinawa Valley, 6-0, 260, sr.

Linebackers: Brody Adams, Springfield Catholic Central, 6-4, 240, sr.; Colton Hiestand. Union City Mississinawa Valley, 6-190, so.; Charles Howard, CCPA, 6-0, 220, jr.; Nate Terrell, Cedarville. 6-1 225, jr.

Secondary: Zac Dues, Fort Loramie, 5-10, 155, sr.; Gabe Steineman, De Graff Riverside, 6-1, 160, jr.; Cainan Robinson, Ansonia, 6-0, 160, sr.

Honorable Mention: Braxton Harrington, South Charleston Southeastern Local; Clayton Pauley, New Miami; Tony Robinson, De Graff Riverside; Dante Farley Jr., Lockland; Corbin Flory, Lewisburg Tri-County North; Bryce Krickenbarger, Lewisburg Tri-County North; Trace Coffey, South Charleston Southeastern Local; Aiden Ritchie, Lewisburg Tri-County North; Lee Tilley, Springfield Catholic Central; Mitchell Harrall, South Charleston Southeastern Local; Mason Givens, Lewisburg Tri-County North; Grayson Woodworth, Lewisburg Tri-County North.

2025 OPSMA Division VI All-Southwest District Teams

Offensive player of the year: Trey Sagester, New Madison Tri-Village; Defensive player of the year: Noah Finkbine, Tri-Village, Sr, LB; Coach of the year: Kyle Hogan, St. Bernard-Elmwood-Place

First-team offense

Backfield: Ayden Basham, Blanchester, 5-10, 190, sr., RB; Lucas Cannady, St. Bernard-Elmwood Place, 6-1, 210, jr., QB; Trey Sagester, New Madison Tri-Village, 6-3, 170, sr., QB; Diezel Taylor, South Vienna Northeastern, 6-2, 201, sr., QB; Logan Ziegenbusch, Anna, 5-11, 160, so., QB; Brody Schmidt, Dayton Christian, 5-10, 165, jr., QB.

Receivers: Morgan Brown, Deer Park, 5-7,165, so.; Jacoby Newman, South Vienna Northeastern, 6-1,181, sr.; Griff Richards, New Madison Tri-Village, 6-0, 175, jr.; Zebadiah Pleiman, Anna, 5-10, 160, sr.; Caden Shepherd, Dayton Christian, 6-3, 185, sr.Linemen: Dom Black, New Madison Tri-Village, 6-4, 280, jr.; Lucas Lester, Covington, 5-10, 190, jr.; Blake Longstreth, Miami Valley Christian Academy, 6-1, 246, jr.; Isaiah Stallworth, St. Bernard-Elmwood Place, 5-11, 350, sr.; Luke Vernon, New Paris National Trail, 6-2, 190, sr.; Corey Waters, Deer Park, 6-1, 260, sr.

Athlete: Cooper Reynolds, Blanchester, 6-0, 140, jr.

First-team defense

Linemen: James Hall, St. Bernard-Elmwood Place, 6-4, 200, sr.; Trenton Havenar, Covington, 6-0, 225, jr.; Hunter Johnsman, New Madison Tri-Village, 6-3, 210 sr.; Sefa Sackey, Deer Park, 6-7, 200, sr.; Julian Stearns, Anna, 6-6, 190, jr.; Nolan Wilt, Anna, 6-1, 230, sr.Linebackers: Hans Erickson, Miami Valley Christian Academy, 5-10, 178, jr.; Noah Finkbine, New Madison Tri-Village, 6-1, 190, sr.; Landon Hewitt, Anna, 6-0, sr.; Cody Houseman, South Vienna Northeastern, 6-0, 184, sr.; Jackson Jones, South Vienna Northeastern, 5-10, 166, sr.; Cory Kidd, Blanchester, 5-10, 205, so.

Secondary: Jeremiah DesJardins, Miami Valley Christian Academy, 5-9, 155, jr.; Filip McMaken, Covington, 5-10, 155, jr., Colt Camacho, New Madison Tri-Village, 6-1, 180, so.; Korde Williams, Summit Country Day, 5-11, 155, fr.

Second-team offense

Backfield: Landin Cassell, Covington, 6-5, 200, jr., QB; Staley Colston, New Madison Tri-Village, 5-10, 175, so., RB; Jacob Culter, Dayton Christian, 5-7, 195, jr. RB; Dameko Taylor, St. Bernard-Elmwood Place, 5-11, 175, jr., RB.

Receivers: Day’Lynn Garrett, Covington, 6-0, 165, sr.; Jonah Brinkley, New Paris National Trail, 6-2, 190, jr.; Amare Hicks, St. Bernard-Elmwood Place, 5-10, 160, sr.; Asa Crocket, Dayton Christian, 6-4, 225, sr.

Linemen: Levi Farmer, New Madison Tri-Village, 6-2, 250, sr.; Brock Gillam, South Vienna Northeastern, 6-1, 224, sr.; Tony Stier, St. Bernard-Elmwood Place, 5-10, 275, sr.; Jeffrey Knox, Dayton Christian, 6-0, 235, jr.

Second-team defense

Linemen: Elijah Brooks, Covington, 6-1, 210, jr.; Deshawn Hicks, St. Bernard-Elmwood Place, 6-4, 255, sr.; Zach Holland, Miami Valley Christian Academy, 6-2, 200, jr.

Linebackers: Landen Moore, New Madison Tri-Village, 6-2, 210, sr.; Grady Ott, New Paris National Trail, 6-2, 190, so.; Sam Reder, Summit Country Day, 6-0, 215, sr.; Nathan Schulte, St. Bernard-Elmwood Place, 5-10, 160, sr.; D.J. Steele, St. Bernard-Elmwood Place, 5-10, 165, so.

Secondary: Talon Bousman, New Paris National Trail, 5-10, 160, so.; Aiden Martin, New Paris National Trail, 5-9, 140, sr.; Kaleb Moone, South Vienna Northeastern, 6-2, 184, sr.; Tink Sellers, Deer Park, 6-0, 170, jr.

Honorable Mention: Brayden Behymer, Blanchester; Cole Swafford, New Lebanon Dixie; Jody Wintrow, New Paris National Trail; Roy Riddle, Sabina East Clinton; Cameron Hartman, Dayton Christian; Braylin Biffle, Dayton Christian; Trenton Begley, Troy Christian; A.J. Reyes, Covington; Isaac Daiga, Dayton Christian; Grady Boggs, Sabina East Clinton; Angel Torres, Blanchester; Colt Jamison, Sabina East Clinton; Nate Williams, Dayton Christian; Jacob Grossnickle, Troy Christian; Eli Queen, Dayton Christian.

2025 OPSMA Division V All-Southwest District Teams

Offensive player of the year: Brody Morton, Camden Preble Shawnee; Defensive player of the year: Luke Czarnecki, Williamsburg; Coach of the year: Greg Conwell, North College Hill

First-team offense

Backfield: Brady Golliday, Lewiston Indian Lake, 6-2, 215, jr., QB; K.J. Gustin, Casstown Miami East, 6-1, 195, jr., QB; Danny Hoke, St. Paris Graham, 6-0, 210, jr., RB; Kolby Morgerson, Carlisle, 6-3, 190, jr., QB; Brody Morton, Camden Preble Shawnee, 6-3, 190, sr., QB; Gray Robinson, Williamsburg, 6-3, 210, jr., RB.

Receivers: Jai’Veon Allen, North College Hill, 6-1, 190, sr.; Caleb Blankenship, Camden Preble Shawnee, 6-2, 180, jr.; Jack Hamaker, Casstown Miami East, 5-11, 175, jr.; Brodey Reisinger, Lewiston Indian Lake, 6-2, 192, jr.; Tyce Rutledge, Waynesville, 6-1, 185, so.; Zyhr Youngblood, Finneytown, 5 -10, 185, sr.

Linemen: Drew Clark, St. Paris Graham, 6-2, 280, jr.; Trey Holden, Williamsburg, 5-11, 250, sr.; Hunter Leath, Greeneview, 6-0, 265, sr.; Nate Marshal, Versailles, 6-4, 240, jr.,; Marcus Rayburn, Arcanum, 6-0, 275, sr.; Cooper Shrout, Camden Preble Shawnee, 6-3, 260, sr.

Athlete: Troy Harris, Williamsburg, 5-11, 165, sr.

Kicker: Avery Pequignot, Lewiston Indian Lake, 6-1, 170, sr.

First-team defense

Linemen: Mekelle Bass, North College Hill, 6-3, 250, sr.; Austyn Benton, Carlisle, 6-5, 315, sr.; Navin Heard, Purcell Marian, 6-2, 200, jr.; Cameron Moss, Dayton Northridge, 6-3, 255, sr.; Aaron Rapp, Lewiston Indian Lake, 6-0, 240, so.; Jack Simpson, Mariemont, 6-2, 215, sr.

Linebackers: Aidan Audretch, Madeira, 6-1, 220, sr.; Luke Czarnecki, Williamsburg, 6-2, 200, sr.; Brandon Stone, Casstown Miami East, 5-11, 195, sr.; Sam Strapp, West Liberty West Liberty-Salem, 6-1, 195, sr.; Jack Traylor, St. Paris Graham, 5-10, 180, sr.

Secondary: Charlie Lane, West Milton Milton-Union, 6-1, 185, sr.; Sulaiman Muhammed Dayton Northridge 6-0, 165, sr.; Blake Opichka, Madeira, 5-9, 155, sr.; Ashton Pelfrey, Carlisle, 5-9, 160, sr.; Luke Robinson, Mariemont, 5-10, 180, sr.; Terron Vaughn, Purcell Marian, 5-11, 165, sr.

Punter: Colton Schroeder, Camden Preble Shawnee, 6-2, 180, sr.

Second-team offense

Backfield: Alex Collins, Carlisle, 6-1, 185, so., RB; Z’yohn Gillespie, Purcell Marian, 5-9, 165, jr., RB; Teagan Henry, Enon Greenon, 5-11, 165, jr., QB; M.J. Macy, Arcanum, 5-9, 185, jr., RB; Tre’von Rowe, Dayton Northridge, 5-10, 175, sr. RB; Carson Tenhunfeld, Williamsburg, 6-4, 175, sr. QB.

Receivers: Drew Conger, Carlisle, 6-0, 175, sr.; Brody Jenkins, St. Paris Graham, 6-0, 180, jr.; Lincoln Littlejohn, Casstown Miami East, 5-10, 155, jr.; Luke Richards, Carlisle, 6-1, 220, sr.; Mason Ropp, Enon Greenon, 5-10, 152, fr.; Kade Schwartz, Versailles, 6-2, 180, jr.

Linemen: Jase Hodges, Jamestown Greeneview, 5-10, 205, sr.; Levi Hollingsworth, St. Paris Graham, 5-9, 220, jr.; Alex Kertesz, Enon Greenon, 6-3, 192, sr.; Jackson McIntosh, Carlisle, 6-0, 220, sr.; Chase Muterspaw, Jamestown Greeneview, 6-2, 225, so.; Kevonte Whitiker, North College Hill, 5-10, 150, jr.

Second-team defense

Linemen: Isaiah Brady, Carlisle, 6-2, 280, sr.; Franklin Kinney, Lewiston Indian Lake, 6-2, 222, sr.; Caleb Neth, Williamsburg, 5-11, 225, sr.; Deriyon New, North College Hill, 6-3, 275, sr.; Bobby Rice, Middletown Madison, 6-0, 260, fr.; Jesse Williamson, Milton-Union, 6-0, 260, sr.

Linebackers: Preston Buchanan, Middletown Madison, 5-10, 195, sr.; Lincoln Griesmer, Mariemont, 6-5, 215, sr.; Evan Maxson, Casstown Miami East, 5-11, 170, jr.; Aiden Meadors, Norwood, 5-11, 180, jr.; Hezekiah Powell, Purcell Marian, 5-10, 190, jr.; Kolton Quigney, Arcanum, 5-10, 190, sr.

Secondary: Bishop Cartwright, Arcanum, 6-2, 160, jr.; Khingston Ferguson, Purcell Marian, 6-2, 200, sr.; Bacon Geer, Clermont Northeastern, 5-11, 150, sr.; Gavin Henry, Lewiston Indian Lake, 5-11, 150, sr.; Arden McGuire, St. Paris Graham, 6-1, 180, jr.; Jahlil Youngblood, Finneytown, 5 -7, 170, sr.

Honorable Mention: Zach Maier, Mariemont; Gregory Marlow, Waynesville; Brady Schmidt, Clermont Northeastern; Brandon Wise, Finneytown; Kody Clark, Middletown Madison; Jakob Hoke, St. Paris Graham; Landyn Knapke, Versailles; Kai Ricks, Enon Greenon; Noah Shirk, Lewiston Indian Lake; Jordan Stafford, Jamestown Greeneview; Corbin Wallace, West Liberty West Liberty-Salem; Ethan Rychnovsky, Enon Greenon; Ben Carpenter, West Milton Milton-Union; Isaiah Frazee, Arcanum; Brayden Freeman, Arcanum; Caleb Hammond, Mariemont; Andrew Huber, Purcell Marian; Kayden Lucas, Enon Greenon; Jackson Luman, Clermont Northeastern; Connor Rogers, Arcanum; Jack Borchers, Versailles; Owen Collett, Casstown Miami East; Eddye Conners, Dayton Northridge; Travis Dirksen, Versailles; Colton Hull, Norwood; Emmitt Ondera, Casstown Miami East; Tyler Purcell, Clermont Northeastern; Jacob Schuler, Milton-Union; Anthony Branch, North College Hill; Cason Berner, West Milton Milton-Union; Rhett Hickman, Jamestown Greeneview; Seth Lowry, West Milton Milton-Union; Karter Newman, Jamestown Greeneview; Jacob Steel, Finneytown; Tyler Watkins, Clermont Northeastern; Darell Hearn, Norwood; Owen Ondera, Casstown Miami East.

2025 OPSMA Division IV All-Southwest District Teams

Offensive player of the year: Monsanna Torbert, Taft; Defensive player of the year: Adam Kirtley, Taft; Coach of the year: Tyler Williams, Taft

First-team offense

Backfield: Devlan Daniel, Indian Hill, 6-1, 205, jr., QB; Grady Lantz, Urbana, 6-2, 185, jr., QB; Zach Lutz, Oakwood, 6-0, 185, sr., QB; Griffin Ridner Richard, CHCA, 6-5, 185, sr., QB; Easton Schrimpf, Taylor, 5-8, 170, sr., RB; Monsanna Torbert, Taft, 6-0, 170, jr., QB.

Receivers: Lorenzo McMullen Jr., Taft, 6-2, 175, sr.; Brylan Miltenberger, Wyoming, 6-1, 180, jr.; Landen Schultian, Bethel Bethel-Tate, 5-8, 140, sr.; Colton Teepe, Urbana, 6-4, 185, sr.; Anthony Valenti, Germantown Valley View, 5-11, 175, sr.; Michael Woeste, Oakwood, 6-0, 180, jr.

Linemen: Ben Abbott, Fenwick, 6-2, 225, sr.; Dakin Johnson, Clinton-Massie, 6-3, 260, sr.; Jason Lunsford, Reading, 6-1, 265, sr.; Sam Norby, Brookville, 5-11, 200, sr.; Drew Roeder, Indian Hill, 6-2, 265, sr.; Landyn West, Germantown Valley View, 5-9, 220, sr.

Athletes: Nijia Hill, Taft, 6-0, 190, sr.; Tristen Trampler, Clinton-Massie, 6-1, 185, sr.

Kicker: Jon Hewitt, Eaton, 6-3, 182, sr.

First-team defense

Linemen: Bryce Brewster, Taft, 6-3, 255, sr.; Jaxson Frye, Indian Hill, 6-4, 215, sr.; Ty Martin, Clinton-Massie, 6-2, 210, jr.; Brayden Reich, Brookville, 5-10, 240, sr.; Brennan Shaffer, Springfield Kenton Ridge, 6-4, 220, jr.; Presley Stewart, Eaton, 6-4, 214, sr.

Linebackers: Ceasar Berryman, Germantown Valley View, 6-0, 225, sr.; Tyler Johnson-Huff, Wyoming, 6-0, 195, jr.; Patrick Keefer, Fenwick, 6-2, 200, sr.; Adam Kirtley, Taft, 6-2, 215, sr.; Max Labin, CHCA, 5-11, 191, sr.; Evan Riggs, Indian Hill, 6-1, 205, sr.

Secondary: Camden Dittman, New Richmond, 5-10, 185, sr.; Dylan Hartman, Indian Hill, 5-10, 170, jr.; Qevon “NuNu” Wathel, Gamble Montessori, 6-2, 170, sr; Brady Thobe, Oakwood, 5-11, 170, jr.; Key’Sean Torbert, Taft, 5-10, 170, so.; Kavontae Whipple, Taft, 6-0, 175, sr.

Punter: Teddy Peterson, Wyoming, 6-1, 145, so.

Second-team offense

Backfield: Julian Daniels, Springfield Kenton Ridge, 6-3, 190, sr. QB; David Dupee, Wyoming, 6-0, 180, jr., QB; Kaden Zantene, Clinton-Massie, 5-10, 175, sr., QB; Brodie Hopkins, Germantown Valley View, 5-8, 175, jr., RB; D.J. Moore, Brookville, 6-1, 170, sr., RB; Braylon Patchell, New Richmond, 5-9, 290, sr., RB

Receivers: Eddie Holloway, Taft, 5-11, 170, jr.; Christian Hutchinson, Shroder, 6-0, 175, sr.; Andrew Smith, Clinton-Massie, 6-1, 180, sr.; George Vollmer, Indian Hill, 6-0, 175, sr.; Alex Wells, CHCA, 6-0, 184, sr.

Linemen: Tommy Bedel, Taylor, 5-11, 260, so.; Joe Coleman, Roger Bacon, 6-3, 230, sr.; Kevin Endres, Urbana, 6-7, 255, sr.; Antony Ghabrial, CHCA, 6-1, 265, sr.; Eli Welch, Bethel-Tate, 6-2, 285, sr.; A.J. Williams, Wyoming, 6-0, 280, jr.

Athlete: Jackson Kauffman, Bishop Fenwick, 5-10, 180, sr.

Kicker: Mitchell Rottinghaus, CHCA, 5-10, 171, sr.

Second-team defense

Linemen: Chase Crittenden, Wyoming, 6-3, 220, sr.; Amari Jones, Dayton Meadowdale, 5-9, 185, jr.; Chayse Mack, Taft, 6-1, 280, sr.; Von Price, Brookville, 6-7, 230, sr.; Case Teepe, Urbana, 6-3, 235, so.; Jaden Tiller, Roger Bacon, 5-10, 240, sr.

Linebackers: Owen Clary, CHCA, 6-1, 218, jr.; Dearonn Daniel, Dayton Meadowdale, 6-2, 205, so.; Massila “Red” Diawara, Gamble Montessori, 5-10, 185, jr.; Max Hoffmann, Roger Bacon, 5-10, 175, sr.; Josiah “JoJo” Pouncy, Taft, 6-3, 210, jr.; Kelby Shaffer, Fenwick, 5-9, 185, sr.

Secondary: D.J. Berning, Fenwick, 5-11, 160, jr.; Aden Lamb, Brookville, 5-11, 190, sr.; Bryndyn Parsons, Springfield Kenton Ridge, 5-11, 175, jr.; Gavin Phillips, Germantown Valley View, 5-11, 160, sr.; Liam Vargo, Roger Bacon, 5-11, 175, jr.; Xavier White, Springfield Kenton Ridge, 5-10, 160, sr.

Punter: Brandon Heater, Benjamin Logan, 6-0, 175, jr.

Honorable Mention: Jordan Brown, Dayton Meadowdale; Charlie Kantz, Taylor; Brian McGrady, Shroder; Jax Pryor, Bethel-Tate; Bubba Smart, Roger Bacon; Ried Smith, Springfield Northwestern; Landon Cornwell, Tipp City Bethel; Hudson Kreke, Fenwick; Jake Lenser, Brookville; Jamere Mitchell, Roger Bacon; Brody Runkle, Springfield, Kenton Ridge; Courtney Russell, Dayton Meadowdale; Marc Smith, Reading; Dylan Wolf, New Richmond; Camden Aylward, Bethel-Tate; Colt Cotner, Urbana; Braden Devine, Oakwood; Sean Heberling, Fenwick; Urban Kummerer, Oakwood; Mason McDermott, Springfield Northwestern; Calil Moody, Shroder, Rennen Smith, Springfield Northwestern; Cordae Cross, Shroder; JR Evans, Clinton-Massie; Henry Hayes, Indian Hill; Ryan Massie-Cable, Taylor, Finn McCarty, Oakwood; Hunter Pauley, Roger Bacon; Khendahll Saka, Dayton Meadowdale; Mali Stevenson, Gamble Montessori; Hunter Wright, New Richmond; Josh Hernandez, Shroder; Jace Horner, Clinton-Massie; Landen Collins, Bethel-Tate; Ivan Turek, Oakwood; Jaden Allen, Shroder; Austin Hill, Urbana; Dwight Mitchell, Dayton Thurgood Marshall; Justus Rose, Urbana; Daniel Swift, Fenwick; Masyn Vannoy, Springfield Kenton Ridge; Cortez Reed, Gamble Montessori.

2025 OPSMA Division III All-Southwest District Teams

Offensive player of the year: Lance Cantrell, Talawanda; Defensive player of the year: Collin Isaac, Tipp City Tippecanoe; Coach of the year: Andy Stuckert, Talawanda

First-team offense

Backfield: Lance Cantrell, Talawanda, 5-10, 205, sr., RB; Drew Cripps, Kettering Archbishop Alter, 6-0, 175, jr., RB; Gage Croley, Goshen, 5-8, 175, jr., RB; Lem Grayson, Badin, 5-8, 195, sr., RB; Xavier Melton, Tipp City Tippecanoe, 5-11, 176, sr., RB; Larkin Thomas, Tipp City Tippecanoe, 5-11, 180, jr., QB.

Receivers: John Barr, Greenville, 6-4, 200, sr.; Noah Barrios, Bellbrook, 6-0, 175, sr.; James Brink, Badin, 6-1, 170, sr.; Marcus Hughbanks, Batavia, 6-3, 205, sr.; Will Strong, Tipp City Tippecanoe, 6-1, 186, sr.

Linemen: Cal Connors, Tipp City Tippecanoe, 6-0, 237, jr.; Hollis Hofman, Talawanda, 6-1, 295, jr.; Dane Koelker, Kettering Archbishop Alter, 6-4, 228, sr.; Jeffrey Martin, Tipp City Tippecanoe, 6-3, 267, sr.; Joe Mulvey, McNicholas, 6-2, 275, sr.; Landon Noble, Greenville, 6-4, 275, sr.; Pete Pendergest, Badin, 6-6, 265, sr.

Athletes: Phayden Mawyer, Wilmington, 5-10, 165, jr.; Rod Owens, Kettering Archbishop Alter, 6-1, 197, sr.

Kicker: Gabe Miyahara, Badin, 5-10, 155, jr.

First-team defense

Linemen: Josh Charron, McNicholas, 5-10, 180, jr.; Max Hamilton, McNicholas, 6-0, 198, jr.; Austin Hurst, Franklin, 6-1, 230, sr.; Ryan Kolb, Tipp City Tippecanoe, 6-0, 257, jr.; Nolan Ogburn, Kettering Archbishop Alter, 6-3, 230, sr.

Linebackers: Alex Galante, Ross, 6-1, 195, jr.; Collin Isaac, Tipp City Tippecanoe, 6-0, 198, sr.; Braydon Isaacs, Franklin, 6-2, 225, sr.; Windon Lowe, Talawanda, 5-11, 185, so.; Alex Pate, Badin, 6-1, 205, sr.; Sam Whitcomb, McNicholas, 5-10, 186, jr.

Secondary: Devin Berner, New Carlisle Tecumseh, 5-10, 165, so.; Max Deckard, Tipp City Tippecanoe, 5-11, 163, sr.; Brandt Kugler, Ross, 6-0, 185, sr.; Kemper McAfee, Talawanda, 6-1, 180, jr.; Eli Stewart, Wilmington, 5-9. 145, sr., Cam Telinda, Goshen, 6-0, 170, jr.

Punter: Ben Sakach, Badin, 6-0, 210, sr.

Second-team offense

Backfield: Colt Emerson, Badin, 6-0, 185, sr., QB; Nehemiah Engleman, Hughes, 5-8, 180, so., RB; Lucas Kunkel, Ross, 5-11, 215, sr., RB; Connor Monk, Franklin, 5-9, 195, sr., RB; Justin Morgan, Western Brown, 5-10, 155, sr., RB; Caden Slusher, Goshen, 6-3, 185, so., QB.

Receivers: Jomar Berg, Goshen, 5-6, 150, jr.; Camar Ellis, Talawanda, 5-10, 165, jr.; Steven Rickman, Wilmington, 6-0, 158, sr.; Aiden Vorhees, Talawanda, 5-11, 175, sr.; Devon Wilcox, Dayton Chaminade Julienne, 5-10, 160, jr.

Linemen: Paul Chaisson, Bellbrook, 6-3, 220, jr.; Jordan Ellis, Talawanda, 6-4, 285, jr.; Marco Keferl, Dayton Carroll, 6-0, 265, sr.; Andrew Lipp, Badin, 6-5, 265, sr.

Athletes: Aidan Caswell, Bellbrook, 6-0, 190,sr.; Ulysses Porter, Dayton Dunbar, 5-9, 170, jr.

Kicker: Griffin Childress, Batavia, 5-9, 145, sr.

Second-team defense

Linemen: Colton Back, Talawanda, 5-11, 200, sr.; Aarionte Crooks, Hughes, 6-0, 260, sr.; Garon Draughn, Dayton Carroll, 6-4, 280, sr.; Nigel Hertz, Dayton Chaminade Julienne, 6-0, 200, jr.; Brody Hogge, Tipp City Tippecanoe, 5-11, 193, sr.

Linebackers: Alex Albrinck, Badin, 6-1, 220, sr.; Bryant Ferguson, Franklin, 5-10, 175, jr.; Kaiden Foulk, Bellefontaine, 6-2 185, sr.; Jesse Keith, Wilmington, 6-3, 220, sr; Jack Kosins, Bellbrook, 5-10, 170, jr.; Trent Owens, Badin, 5-10, 200, sr.

Secondary: Jack Berry, Franklin, 5-10, 190, sr.; A.J. Cooke, Franklin, 5-8, 150, sr.; Andrew Manz, Batavia, 5-9, 150, sr.; Dylan Pawlaczyk, Talawanda, 5-10, 175, sr.; Patrick Stolly, Bellefontaine, 6-1, 162, sr.; Elijah Valdez, Western Brown, 5-11, 165, sr.

Punter: Matthew Tipps, Dayton Carroll, 6-3, 225, jr.

Honorable Mention: Gabe Rammel, Greenville; Emanual Gibbs, Western Brown; Clayton Smith, Western Brown; Bryton Otto, Tipp City Tippecanoe; Jah’Bron Ridley, Hughes; Damion Simpson, Wilmington; Keimon Staples, Hughes; Zac Belmont, McNicholas; Carter Caudill, Bellefontaine, Ioan Cioca, Wilmington; Anthony Clemens, Dayton Chaminade Julienne; Adam Pena, Western Brown; Matthew Tipps, Dayton Carroll; Jay’mal Whitfield, Dayton Dunbar; Jorden Williams, Goshen.

2025 OPSMA Division II All-Southwest District Teams

Offensive player of the year: DeAunte White, Xenia; Defensive player of the year: Brady Kuhn, Anderson; Coach of the year: Evan Dreyer, Anderson

First-team offense

Backfield: Jordan Davis, Anderson, 5-10, 195, jr., RB; Preston Flick, Harrison, 5-10, 190, sr., RB; Andre McConnell, Riverside Stebbins, 5-10, 190, sr., RB; Grant Nurre, Kings, 6-4, 215, sr., QB; Owen Scalf, Anderson, 6-2, 180, jr., QB; DeAunte White, Xenia, 5-11, 180, sr, RB.

Receivers: Shawn Fishwick, Xenia, 6-2, 185, sr.; Rayshawn Garrett, Piqua, 6-2, 166, sr.; Andrew Lyman, Kings, 6-3, 185, jr.; Dantrell Moses, Withrow, 5-10, 175, sr.; Armani Rogers, Trotwood-Madison, 5-10, 165, sr.; Tysin Weaver, Anderson, 6-2, 195, jr.

Linemen: Tommy Ehrsam, Xenia, 6-4, 250, sr.; Austin Haig, Monroe, 6-2, 275, sr.; Max Kief, La Salle, 6-5, 270, sr.; Colby Quinlan, Harrison, 6-6, 315, sr.; Patrick Saddler, Withrow, 6-0, 290, sr.; Owen Wells, Kings, 6-5, 215, so.

Athletes: Bryant Lee, Monroe, 6-0, 180, sr.; Jaylen Lilly, Northwest, 5-10, 192, jr.; Colin Wooldridge, La Salle, 6-0, 200, sr.

Kicker: Brady Stidham, Loveland, 5-11, 165, sr.

First-team defense

Linemen: Bariyus Allen, Dayton Belmont, 6-5, 290, jr.; Grant Dallio, Harrison, 6-1, 220, sr.; Louis Freeman, Xenia, 6-2, 200, sr.; Antwoine Higgins, Anderson, 6-4, 235, jr.; Calvin Lorek, Loveland, 6-4 250, sr.; Jamarcus Whyce, Trotwood-Madison, 6-3, 290, sr.

Linebackers: Josh Cassio, Kings, 6-4, 195, sr.; Nolan Ennis, Miamisburg, 5-11, 185, sr.; Brady Kuhn, Anderson, 6-3, 205, sr.; Brody Nickerson, Turpin, 6-0, 220, sr.; Solomon Rothermel, Edgewood, 6-2, 195, sr.; Riley Seibert, Vandalia Butler, 6-2, 215, sr.

Secondary: Ace Alston, Anderson, 6-0, 180, jr.; Darius Dennis, Trotwood-Madison, 6-1, 195, jr.; Jaycee Houston, Withrow, 6-2, 175, sr.; Hezikiah Kelley, Northwest, 6-2, 195, jr.; Ben Markarian, Harrison, 6-0, 190, jr.; Roman Smith, Edgewood, 5-11, 215, sr.

Punter: Henry Feltman, Turpin 6-3, 215, sr.

Second-team offense

Backfield: Aaron Dandrea, Dayton Belmont, 6-2, 200, jr., QB; Debo Knisley, Piqua, 5-6, 155, sr., RB; Brady Lawhon, Harrison, 6-2, 190, jr., QB; Chase Martin, Loveland, 6-1 200, sr., RB; Devin McCormick, Riverside Stebbins, 6-1, 175, jr., QB; Andre Underwood, Aiken, 6-0, 185, sr, QB.

Receivers: Charles Alexander, Withrow, 6-3, 190, jr.; Marcell Jefferson, Riverside Stebbins, 5-11, 155, jr.; Romello Mitchell, Aiken, 6-0, 155, sr.; Hunter Ogdan, La Salle, 6-4, 225, sr.; Evan Overholser, Turpin WR, 6-0, 170, sr,; Julius Rusk, Vandalia Butler, 6-4, 225, sr.

Linemen: Austin Arnold, Turpin, 6-3, 225, sr.; J.J. Cook, Miamisburg, 6-2, 260, jr.; Tony Gardener, Piqua. 6-2, 288, sr.; Teagan Haretuku, Anderson, 6-2, 280, jr.; Carson Holley, Vandalia Butler, 6-3, 295, sr.; Landen Schinbeckler, Loveland, 6-4, 245, sr.

Athletes: Reginald Gardner, Dayton Belmont, 5-7, 160, jr.; Rico Smith, Fairborn, 5-7, 150, jr.; Naseer Salaam, La Salle, 5-9, 177, jr.

Kicker: Gryffin Bradley, Vandalia Butler, 5-9, 150, sr.

Second-team defense

Linemen: Jaden Blackshear, Vandalia Butler, 5-10, 240, jr.; Travis Burke, Edgewood, 6-3, 230, sr., Gavin Stromberg, Monroe, 6-1, 240, sr.; Nick Vincent, Riverside Stebbins, 6-5, 285, sr.; Kale Webb, Xenia, 6-3, 275, sr.; Jameer Whyce, Trotwood-Madison, 6-5, 270, so.

Linebackers: Zaydyn Allen, Piqua, 6-1, 193, sr.; Reid Baker, Anderson, 6-2, 205, sr.; David Baldock, Harrison, 6-2, 190, jr.; Otis Boyette, Xenia, 6-1, 180, sr.; Almari Byrd, Fairborn, 6-2, 230, sr.; Brycen Deller, Harrison, 6-2, 210, sr.

Secondary: Keaton Bolden, Piqua, 6-0, 177, sr.: Aaron Phelan, Monroe, 5-11, 185, sr.; Mac Reed, Turpin, 6-3, 180, sr.; Jacob Rudowski, Kings, 6-2, 190, sr; Ricky Thomas, Withrow, 6-1, 190, sr.; Ke’Maury Tye, Anderson, 6-0, 175, sr.

Punter: Parker Seibel, Northwest, 5-11, 175, sr.

Honorable Mention Luke Mileham, Turpin; Chrys Ngoh, Miamisburg; Brody O’Banion, Edgewood; Gage Stephan, Xenia; Cory Rice, Vandalia Butler; Gage Stephan, Xenia; Christian Roether, Harrison; Lucas Williams, Xenia; Bram Hermans, Anderson; Joseph Ingram, West Carrollton; Justyn Lyles, Withrow; Eli Neri, Northwest; Cam Potts, Monroe; Kadyn Robinson, Xenia; Zeb Warrington, Harrison; Eli Appleberry, Trotwood-Madison; Chris Barnes, Withrow; Christion Browner, Withrow; Caleb Buckner, West Carrollton; Ethan Dixon, Northwest; Micah Kelley, Northwest; Quintin Perry, Trotwood-Madison; Brandon Riley, Turpin; Isaiah White, Fairborn; Tyrone Bush-Freeman; Mauricio Castro, Mount Healthy; Ethan Hovekamp, Turpin; Colton Lemons, Miamisburg; Luke Levering, Monroe; Josh Brodnick, Miamisburg; Cristian Corbett, Xenia; Karsyn Curry, Northwest; Brady Gillespie, Turpin; Jayden Harrison, Aiken; Adonus Lilly, Dayton Belmont; Mark Madden, Anderson; Davon Smith, Vandalia Butler; Elijah Sterling, Northwest; James Ahn, Monroe.

2025 OPSMA Division I All-Southwest District Teams

Offensive player of the year: Ryder Hooks, Lakota East; Defensive player of the year: Derek Uran, Elder; Coach of the year: Doug Ramsey, Elder

First-team offense

Backfield: Kaden Estep, Elder, 6-0, 170, jr., QB; Luke Faler, Lebanon, 6-1, 185, sr., QB; Ryder Hooks, Lakota East, 5-8, 185, sr., RB; Max Miller, Springboro, 6-3, 190, jr., QB; Matt Ponatoski, Moeller, 6-1, 200, sr., QB; Christopher Wallace, Springfield, 6-0, 175, jr., QB.

Receivers: Jamier Averette-Brown, Huber Heights Wayne, 6-0, 180, jr.; Noah Bilinski, Springboro, 6-1, 175 jr.; P.J. MacFarlane, Lakota East, 6-5, 215, sr.; Landen Miree, Princeton, 6-4, 230, sr.; Jon’ir Travis, Winton Woods, 5-9, 170, sr.; Reggie Watson, Moeller, 5-6, 165, jr.

Linemen: Bradan Bailey, Hamilton, 6-2, 260, sr.; Jack Harper, Springboro, 6-2, 285, sr.; Marquis Myers, Springfield, 6-2, 253, jr.; Patrick O’Brien, Moeller, 6-5, 292, jr.; Tyrell Scott, Elder, 6-4, 300, sr; Paxton Tengesdahl, Huber Heights Wayne, 6-2, 275, sr.

Athletes: Zion Neal, Princeton, 5-10, 170, sr.; Daniel Vollmer, St Xavier, 6-2, 220, sr.

Kicker: Kofi Adubofuor, Lakota West, 6-1, 192, sr.

First-team defense

Linemen: Eckley Bridges, Hamilton, 6-2, 255, sr.; Christian Harris, Moeller, 6-2, 300, sr.; Reilly Newman, Lakota West, 6-7, 277, jr.; Caillou Robinson, West Clermont, 6-1, 240, sr.; Royce Rogers, Springfield, 6-1, 270, sr.; Derrick Singletary, Middletown, 6-3, 215, sr.

Linebackers: Ja’Kobe Clapper, St Xavier, 6-2, 215, sr.; Jahmiere Daniels-Portis, Springfield, 6-1, 190, jr.; Aden Reeder, St Xavier, 6-3, 215, sr.; Cam Thomas, Lakota West, 6-1, 202, sr.; Derek Uran, Elder, 6-2, 200, sr.; Evan Weinberg, Springboro, 6-3, 225, sr.

Secondary: Chris Bradley, Lakota West, 5-9, 156, jr.; Nate Dawson, Winton Woods, 6-2-185, sr.; Rihyael Kelley, Winton Woods, 6-3, 180, sr.; Brayden Reilly, St Xavier, 6-3, 210, sr.; Jordan Vann, Middletown, 6-1, 205, sr.; Andrew Wells, Princeton, 5-11, 195, sr.

Punter: Henry Greenberg, Springboro, 5-11, 175, sr.

Second-team offense

Backfield: Andre Bailey, Hamilton, 5-10, 190, sr., RB; Bryshawn “JuJu” Brown, Winton Woods, 6-6, 200, sr., QB; Logan Doty, Kettering Fairmont, 5-10, 200, jr., RB; Kye Graham, Huber Heights Wayne, 6-2, 195, so., QB; Parker Johnson, Centerville, 5-9, 210, sr., RB; Aiden Kirkpatrick, Troy, 6-0, 192, sr., QB; Deontre Long, Springfield, 5-11, 185, sr., RB; Kenyon Norman, Lakota West, 6-1, 191, jr., RB.

Receivers: Cordell Ball, Oak Hills, 6-2, 177, so.; Lucas Basta, Little Miami, 5-11, 175, sr.; Nick Lautar, Lebanon, 6-5, 235, sr.; Sherrod Lay Jr., Springfield, 5-10, 170, sr.; Cooper McCutchan, Moeller, 6-5, 240, sr.; Semarion Sroufe, Huber Heights Wayne, 5-11, 160, sr.

Linemen: Lenin Aguilar, Mason, 6-7, 285, sr.; Jeremy Bader, Oak Hills, 6-2, 276, sr.; Griffin Chromick, Kettering Fairmont, 6-2, 220, sr.; Danny Fortson Jr., Princeton, 6-4, 275, sr.; Chris Mimms, Winton Woods, 6-3, 285, sr.; Jace Montgomery, Moeller, 6-3, 250, so.

Athletes: Aaron McFarland, Oak Hills, 6-1, 185, sr.; Aidan Gorman, Troy, 5-11, 160, sr.

Kicker: Jack Mallabar, Moeller, 5-11, 215, jr.

Second-team defense

Linemen: Preston Allen, Springfield, 6-2, 275, sr.; Julian Harris, Oak Hills, sr., 6-1, 255, sr.; Mason Holbrook, Hamilton, 6-4, 275, sr.; Terrence Jones, Princeton, 6-2, 220, jr.; Carter Napier, Springboro, 6-3, 255, jr.; Brady Seeley, Centerville, 6-2, 250, sr.

Linebackers: Alex Brown, Mason, 6-2, 215, sr.; C.J. Bryant, Middletown, 5-9, 210, sr.; Conner Cuozzo, Moeller, 6-1, 215, sr.; Alex Dugan, Elder, 6-4, 200, sr.; Max Rhodes, Oak Hills, 6-2, 220, sr.; Axsel Rogers, Fairfield, 6-2, 185, jr.

Secondary: Virgil Coleman, Middletown, 5-9, 165, sr.; Marino Middleton, Moeller, 6-1, 188, jr.; Tre Montgomery, Springfield, 6-0, 183, sr.; Gabe Ross, Fairfield, 6-1, 185, sr.; David Svoboda, Beavercreek, 6-0, 171, sr.; Jamison Webster, Beavercreek, 6-0, 180, jr.

Punter: Orion Bentley, Mason, 6-2, 187, so.

Honorable Mention: DeAngelo Birch, Mason; Shane Cole, Centerville; Roman Garr, Colerain; Will Rivers. Walnut Hills; Jackson Smith, Lakota West; Tommy Becker, Elder; Corrious Booker, Fairfield; Kellen Reeves, Beavercreek; Isaiah Thompson, Huber Heights Wayne; Kameron Thornton, Kettering Fairmont; Andrew Trapp, Little Miami; Landon Young, West Clermont; Chris Bouyer, Lakota East; Jordan Bryant, Hamilton; Ace Cooper, Middletown; Tyson Davis, Lakota West; Desean Flagg Jr., Colerain; Carter Jones, Lakota East; Elijah Jones, Hamilton; Zymir Reed, Middletown; Josh Thornton, Walnut Hills; Conner Berner, Centerville; Gabriel Clyne, Huber Heights Wayne; Cameron Crigler, Fairfield; Robby Flack, Hamilton; Jonas Long, Princeton; Carl Lyttle, West Clermont; Ben McIlvain, Kettering Fairmont; Matt Barth, Troy; Kole Krejny, Kettering Fairmont; Joey Kristbaum, Centerville; Jayden Heinrich, Huber Heights Wayne; Jon Civils, Princeton; Jon Hendrix, Mason; Javion Lewis, Huber Heights Wayne; Jayvion McKinney-Cooper, Winton Woods; Joseph Traore, Fairfield; Hunter Davis, Lebanon; Jake Dixon, Milford; Jon Jackson, Walnut Hills; Pete Fortkamp, Elder; Kobe Lewis, Fairfield; Tanner Meadows, Little Miami; Lucas Mullinger, Centerville; Landon Mullins, Beavefcreek; Dawson Reip, Lakota East; Skyler Slifer, Kettering Fairmont; Nate Canady, Princeton; Laaren Cornwall, Middletown; Sean Heisle, Huber Heights Wayne; Josiah Leonard, Fairfield; Brayden Redd, Huber Heights Wayne.

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Ryan Day explains Arthur Smith’s hiring as Ohio State coordinator

Published

7 hours ago

March 3, 2026

Press Room

Ryan Day explains Arthur Smith’s hiring as Ohio State coordinator

Ryan Day explained the hiring process that led to former Falcons head coach and NFL assistant Arthur Smith becoming the offensive coordinator of Ohio State football.

Appearing as a guest on “The Jim Rome Show” March 3, Day emphasized the importance of hiring a someone with an extensive body of work to coach the Buckeyes’ offense.

“When Brian [Hartline] moved on to South Florida [we] wanted to go bring in somebody with great experience,” Day said.

Day said the Buckeyes first looked at coaches with collegiate coordinator experience, then the NFL. Smith’s three-year tenure as a head coach in the NFL, along with his extensive time with the Tennessee Titans as an assistant and offensive coordinator, made him stand out as a candidate, Day said.

“…[I] had a chance myself to sit down and talk with him. It was excellent,” Day said. “He’s a great communicator, very intelligent, and really loves the game of college football.  When you hear a story about growing up and how much time he spent around college football, you could just see it in his eyes.”

Day added that the new role has been almost “refreshing” to Smith when given the chance to work with college players and young talent.

Smith has spent the majority of his coaching career in the NFL. He served a year as a graduate assistant at North Carolina, his alma mater, and brief stint with Ole Miss as an administrative assistant.

Smith was then hired by his hometown Titans in 2011 and spent the the rest of the decade with them, rising from quality control coach to assistant offensive line coach to tight ends coach. Promoted to offensive coordinator in 2019, he led Mike Vrabel’s Titans to proficient offensive seasons with running back Derrick Henry.

Day said hiring Smith will allow him to take a back seat on the offense.

“It was great to have Matt [Patricia] on defense, and Brian [Hartline] did a great job as well, but I think this year will allow me to even step back even more and try to do as much as I can from the head coaching seat,” Day said.

After Hartline accepted the South Florida head coaching job, Day stepped in to call plays during the Cotton Bowl against Miami. Ohio State lost 24-14.

Smith joins Buckeyes defensive coordinator Matt Patricia as an Ohio State coordinator hire with previous NFL head coaching experience. Smith went 21-30 as the head coach of the Falcons for three years.

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Woman dies after saving grandchild playing in driveway from out-of-control car, Ohio officials say

Published

19 hours ago

March 3, 2026

Press Room

Woman dies after saving grandchild playing in driveway from out-of-control car, Ohio officials say

Updated on: March 2, 2026 / 9:50 PM EST
/ CBS Pittsburgh

A woman in Pickaway County, Ohio, died after moving a child out of the way of an out-of-control car, authorities said.

The Pickaway County Sheriff’s Office said in a post on Facebook that 52-year-old Laura J. Hammond of Mt. Sterling was fatally struck by the vehicle on Feb. 27 on Walnut Creek Pike in Circleville.

The sheriff’s office said officials were called to the area for a report of a crash around 10 a.m. At the scene, investigators learned that the driver of a Nissan Sentra was headed southbound on Walnut Creek Pike when they went off the west side of the road. The car then careened through two yards before hitting a Chevrolet Equinox parked in the driveway of a home, officials said.

The Nissan, at the same time that it smashed into the Chevrolet, hit Hammond, pinning her between the two vehicles. Before being hit, the sheriff’s office said Hammond moved a child out of the way, which “more than likely saved his life.” CBS affiliate WBNS reported that the young child Hammond saved was her grandson.

“Laura actually picked up the child and tossed him. At the end of the day, it saved his life,” Pickaway County Sheriff’s Office Capt. John Strawser told the news outlet. “And when Laura tossed him, very unfortunately, she took the brunt of the vehicle.”

Hammond was taken to a local hospital, where she was pronounced dead. The young child was taken to a local hospital and treated for non-life-threatening injuries.

The driver of the vehicle was also taken to a local hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.

The Pickaway County Sheriff’s Office and the Ohio State Highway Patrol are investigating the crash. The sheriff’s office did not release any additional information about the crash.

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Auto parts maker to lay off 1,200 in Ohio amid fraud charges. Here’s where

Published

1 day ago

March 2, 2026

Press Room

Auto parts maker to lay off 1,200 in Ohio amid fraud charges. Here’s where

First Brands closing corporate office in Cleveland, three other Ohio facilities amid bankruptcy. Its CEO is facing federal fraud charges

Auto parts supplier First Brands is closing four Ohio facilities, including its Cleveland corporate office.
The closures will result in the permanent layoff of more than 1,200 workers by the end of April.
The company’s founder and former CEO and his brother are facing federal charges in an alleged multi-billion dollar fraud scheme.
First Brands, which supplies products like Fram oil filters, filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in September 2025.

A major auto parts supplier is laying off more than a thousand workers and closing four facilities around Ohio, including its corporate offices in Cleveland.

First Brands, whose founder and former CEO is facing charges in multi-billion dollar fraud scheme, notified the state in late February of its intent to permanently close the facilities by April 30. The layoffs created by these closures are also permanent, according to the Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification Act notices filed with Ohio Job and Family Services.

The company — which supplies Fram oil filters and Anco wiper blades, among others — filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in September 2025. In January, First Brands had started winding down some of its operations in North America while seeking a buyer, according to Reuters. However, several potential buyers “have suddenly and unexpectedly withdrawn or narrowed their bids” according to one of the recent WARN notices.

Which facilities are closing? And how many jobs are being lost? Here’s what to know.

First Brands closing four Ohio locations, cutting more than 1,200 jobs

According to WARN notices, First Brands is closing the following facilities:

Corporate Office, 127 Public Square, Suite 5300, Cleveland. In the first round of layoffs here, 146 workers were cut on Feb. 23, according to a WARN notice sent that date. A second notice dated Feb. 27 for this address advises that the facility will close on April 30, and the remaining 110 workers will be laid off.
FRAM facility, 851 Jackson St., Greenville. According to a WARN notice sent Feb. 27, this facility will close April 30 and 302 jobs will be lost.
TMD facility, 1441 N. Maule Road, Tiffin. All 407 employees will be terminated when this facility is permanently closed on April 30, according to a Feb. 27 WARN notice.
TMD facility, 515 E. Gypsy Lane Road, Bowling Green. First Brands will also close this facility on April 30, laying off 302 workers, according to another Feb. 27 WARN notice.

In total, First Brands is laying off 1,267 workers in these four closures.

Indictment alleges Cleveland auto supplier CEO, VP defrauded lenders. Both plead not guilty

First Brands Group founder and former CEO Patrick James and his brother, Edward, a senior vice president, are accused of defrauding lenders out of billions of dollars before the auto parts supplier fell into bankruptcy according to an indictment made public Jan. 29 in Manhattan federal court.

The nine-count indictment includes charges of running a continuing financial crimes enterprise, bank fraud, wire fraud and money laundering conspiracy. Both pleaded not guilty on Feb. 4, Reuters reports. A trial is set in July. Both could face decades in prison if convicted.

Prosecutors said the defendants “perpetrated a series of fraudulent schemes” against First Brands’ lenders and financing partners, Reuters reported, including allegedly inflating invoices, double- and triple-pledging loan collateral, falsifying financial statements and concealing substantial liabilities.

“It is very much Mr. James’ intent to go into court and proclaim his innocence,” said Scott Hartman, a lawyer for Patrick James, according to Reuters.

Patrick James and Edward James are Malaysian-born U.S. citizens.

Seth DuCharme, a lawyer for Edward James, told Reuters that his client is not going to “run off to Southeast Asia where he allegedly has all this money.”

What is First Brands Group? Company filed for bankruptcy in September

First Brands, founded in 2013, was one of the world’s largest suppliers of auto parts such as brakes, filters and ‍lighting systems, according to Reuters. It had $5 billion in sales last year.

Prosecutors say First Brands borrowed billions to finance its growth. Those loans were secured by inventory and physical assets like plants and equipment. Reuters reports that this left First Brands vulnerable to cash flow issues and dependent on its access to the capital from those loans.

The company filed for bankruptcy in September 2025. Patrick James stepped down as CEO that October, according to Crain’s Detroit Business.

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