The Styles brothers, Sonny and Lorenzo, are on the brink of solidifying a cherished family legacy at Ohio State. Their journey to this point has been marked by challenging decisions and determination that they have navigated together.
As the Buckeyes prepare for their final home game of the season against Rutgers, the brothers reflect on their unique paths that have led them back to this pivotal moment at Ohio Stadium. This Saturday, 17 family members will be present to witness the culmination of their shared experience in college football.
“I would never have thought me and my brother would be walking on the same senior day,” expressed Lorenzo. “It’s just a blessing. Everything’s coming together how it’s supposed to be.”
The brothers’ stories began quite differently before converging at Ohio State. Lorenzo Styles Jr. graduated from Pickerington Central High School in 2021 and commenced his college football career as a wide receiver at Notre Dame. After two seasons with the Fighting Irish, he transferred back home to play alongside his brother but committed to becoming a defensive back rather than continuing as a receiver.
The transition was challenging; he played sparingly his first season without notable statistics, but he gained experience and made an impact last year with 16 tackles. Now as a graduate student, he is a defensive starter who mainly covers slot receivers, racking up 40 tackles this season.
Sonny’s path was equally punctuated by tough decisions. He graduated high school a year early to join Ohio State as a safety, leveraging his physicality at 6-foot-5 and 243 pounds. After starting every game as a sophomore, he transitioned to linebacker and has worn the Block O jersey, a symbol of leadership for the team. He believes this decision set him up for future success, potentially as a late first-round NFL Draft pick.
Meanwhile, Lorenzo, despite having statistically fewer opportunities, remains determined. His recent performance, highlighted by a 100-yard kickoff return for a touchdown against UCLA, reflects his abilities and thrilling moments in his senior year. “If you really go back and watch it, it was easy for me,” Lorenzo noted, crediting his teammates for their excellent blocking.
Their father, Lorenzo Styles, who played for the Buckeyes in the 1990s and went on to a successful NFL career, serves as a foundational figure in their lives. The possibility exists that one or both brothers might see their children play for the Buckeyes in the future, extending the family legacy even further.
As they approach the climax of their college careers, the brothers aim not only for personal accolades but also for collective achievements such as defeating rival Michigan, clinching the Big Ten championship, and aspiring for a national title. “It’s bigger than football. I think a lot of other guys will say the same thing,” Sonny remarked about the character-building experiences they are sharing with their teammates.
The Buckeyes stand at 10-0 and are fully aware of the challenges posed by Rutgers, a team averaging 30 points per game. Sonny emphasized the readiness of the team, crediting their focus and approach. The real test awaits next week against Michigan, igniting hopes for the Big Ten title and further playoffs.
The Styles brothers exemplify the heart of college football—commitment, family, and the pursuit of excellence. Their story illustrates that the bonds formed through the love of the game resonate far beyond the gridiron, fostering values that will surely benefit them off the field as well.