Which notable individual is the most recent addition that Ohio State football has recruited from Alabama?
The Ohio State football program’s recruitment efforts from the Alabama Crimson Tide persist, and the latest addition to their roster is not a player but a key staff member.
Following the acquisition of star safety Caleb Downs and center Seth McLaughlin from Alabama, both moves coinciding with the retirement of Coach Nick Saban, Ohio State has secured the services of Sam Petitto for a crucial role within the team.
Petitto has been appointed as the director of player personnel, reporting to Mark Pantoni, OSU’s general manager of player personnel. Commencing his duties on Monday, Petitto brings a wealth of experience, having worked under Saban for eight years in Tuscaloosa as Alabama’s director of player personnel and director of recruiting. During his tenure, the Crimson Tide consistently ranked at the pinnacle of national recruiting standings. Prior to his time at Alabama, Petitto served at Georgia.
With Saban’s retirement and the subsequent leadership change under former Washington coach Kalen DeBoer, Petitto found himself without a role as the new regime brought in its own staff.
Mark Pantoni expressed his familiarity with Petitto, stating, “I have known of him for a long time. Obviously, he had a very good reputation from the people I knew at Alabama and Georgia, where he worked previously.” Pantoni seized the opportunity to bring in Petitto when the position became available, emphasizing that the timing was mutually beneficial.
Replacing Marc Votteler, Petitto’s primary responsibilities will include high-school film evaluation, establishing connections with recruits and their families, and overseeing the day-to-day operations of the recruiting room and its staff.
Pantoni expressed enthusiasm about Petitto’s arrival, highlighting his wealth of experience, strong connections in the South, and the opportunity for Ohio State to glean insights from Alabama’s successful processes.
