DaytonDailyNews.com

COLUMBUS — The Ohio State football team has already picked up three commitments in the class of 2008, and at least one recruiting analyst ranks the trio with the best at their positions nationally among seniors-to-be.

Dublin Coffman tackle Mike Adams, Cincinnati LaSalle receiver DeVier Posey and Westerville Central punter-kicker Ben Buchanan have all accepted scholarships from the Buckeyes.

Duane Long of Bucknuts.com, who publishes the Ohio High scouting report, has the 6-foot-8, 300-pound Adams rated as the top player in the state.

"I've only seen one offensive lineman — Orlando Pace — better at the high school level in Ohio," Long said. "He's better than Korey Stringer and better than Alex Boone. He's a special athlete."

The 6-3, 195-pound Posey is "big, strong and athletic," Long said. "He runs away from everyone, and he's a big receiver who can take the ball away from defenders."

Long considers Buchanan both the best punter and kicker in the Midwest. He's had a 54-yard field goal and averaged 41 yards per punt last season.

"These three will set the tone for the rest of the class," Long said. "They're the type of guys who are going to bring other players with them."

The Buckeyes expect to have roughly 15 scholarships available in 2008.

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