BuckeyeGrove.com - Gardiner says OSU tops his list

March 26, 2007

Bill Kurelic
Recruiting Analyst

Dublin (Ohio) Coffman linebacker Steve Gardiner, who attended the Rivals.com Junior Day at Trotwood (Ohio) Madison on Saturday, recently landed his first scholarship offer.

"A few days ago I got an offer from West Virginia," Gardiner said. "I think they offered me as a linebacker."

The 6-foot-1 and 200-pound Gardiner plays both linebacker and running back for the Shamrocks, but for the most part is being recruited as either a linebacker or strong safety.

Gardiner made 125 tackles and intercepted three passes during his junior season. He also rushed for 1000 yards and 11 touchdowns.

Gardiner went on to discuss Saturday's activities in southwest Ohio.

"Me and three other guys from Dublin went to Trotwood," Gardiner said. "Me, Mike Adams, Jake Stoneburner and Trey Fairchild went. They took individual pictures and a picture of us together. They did interviews with all four of us."

Having landed an offer from West Virginia, it's not surprising Gardiner is interested in the Mountaineers. But the Buckeyes top his list.

When asked who he is interested in, Gardiner said, "Definitely Ohio State. And Tennessee, Maryland, Louisville and Miami of Ohio definitely. Ohio University and Vanderbilt are two more. And Boston College and Indiana."

Gardiner went on to discuss his top choice.

"I'm getting mail from Ohio State," he said. "I plan on going to one of their spring practices and one of their camps. Ohio State is the school I'm most interested in. I grew up an Ohio State fan."

The Buckeyes have already landed a commitment from Adams. They have also offered Stoneburner a scholarship and he could be their next verbal commitment.

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