Ryan Day’s Ohio State lands commitment from star WR Phillip Bell

Ohio State's 2024 season kicked off with a bang as the Buckeyes dominated Akron in a 52-6 blowout on Saturday. The victory was made even sweeter for Ohio State fans with the announcement of four-star wide receiver Phillip Bell’s commitment to Ryan Day's program.

Bell’s relationship with Ohio State dates back to his first visit to Columbus last year, where he received an offer that immediately put the Buckeyes on his priority list. Since then, he has been a top target for the team, returning to Columbus last fall for Ohio State's game against Michigan State before making an official visit in June 2024.

Despite a strong push from USC to keep the California native on the West Coast, Bell ultimately chose the Buckeyes.

As a senior, Bell recorded 88 all-purpose yards and averaged 44.0 yards per game this season. His junior year saw him record 56 receptions for 644 yards and seven touchdowns.

Phillip Bell is ranked by On3 Industry Ranking as the No. 180 overall prospect in the nation, the No. 21 wide receiver in the 2025 class and the No. 15 recruit in California. He also received offers from USC, Washington, Georgia, Tennessee, Penn State and Oregon, among others.

Ohio State checked every box for Phillip Bell

Ohio State's 2025 class is already elite, ranking first in the nation. With recruits such as quarterback Tavien St. Clair, cornerback Devin Sanchez, and safety Na'eem Offord already committed, Phillip Bell's pledge solidifies Ohio State's standing as a class powerhouse.

“Ohio State checked every box,” Bell told On3. “They did everything right with me. It started with coach Hart and his resume, but getting to play for coach Ryan Day and coach Chip Kelly were big factors too."

Bell is close to St. Clair and is excited about the prospect of working together at the next level. Besides that, wide receiver coach Brian Hartline played a crucial role in his commitment.

“Coach Hart was a big factor in my decision,” Bell said. “Playing for him is something I couldn’t pass up. From what he does with his guys on the field to our time breaking down my film, there is something different about him."

Phillip Bell joins other standout wide receivers like Quincy Porter, Bodpegn Miller and De'zie Jones in a class that already boasts 26 commits.