Black Stripe Alert! Linebacker Payton Pierce loses black stripe

Black stripe alert! Another freshman has shed his black stripe and has been officially welcomed to the Brotherhood. Linebacker Payton Pierce becomes the fourth freshman to join the club this fall.

Pierce comes to Ohio State from the state of Texas as a four-star prospect and a finalist for the High School Butkus Award, given to the best high school linebacker each year. He enrolled early and began taking classes in January of this year, however, he was unable to practice with the team as he was rehabilitating from surgery in the spring. To have his black stripe removed so soon after such a short time on the practice field speaks volumes about the potential this kid has.

Pierce is one of two linebackers who signed in the 2024 class although it remains to be seen if Garrett Stover will stay there or move to safety. Either way, expectations are high for Pierce when his time comes.

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