Fundamental problem at Penn State

State College is relatively remote. E.g., three hours from Philadelphia. Many players who commit to Ohio State cite the relative size and amenities of Columbus as an appeal. I've often wondered how much Ohio State emphasizes this advantage when recruiting, such as the Columbus Zoo and even The Wilds.

Several decades ago, I actually had work assignments in State College and thought it an incredibly boring place.

Does Ohio State even mention the unequaled aviation history attractions in nearby Dayton?

Are park systems (Columbus metroparks) better in Columbus than in State College?

If Ohio State can continue to defeat Penn State, it likely also provides an advantage in recruiting players from Greater Pittsburgh. State College is only 20 minutes closer to Pittsburgh than Columbus.

EDIT:

I actually attended a remote university for several years. ANYTHING to do like the Columbus Zoo would have been a joy. Modern recruits with NIL money have cars and resources for day trips. IMO, Ohio State should definitely promote nearby attractions when recruiting, at least list them, to give recruits an additional consideration when evaluating Ohio State versus the likes of especially Penn State in State College.

For decades, I've always warned high school kids and their parents about the boredom inherent in attending a school like Penn State, specifically mentioning Penn State several times when it was under consideration.

And, as I mentioned, Buckeye recruits often say Columbus was part of the appeal in committing to Ohio State. The assumption is that Ohio State generally will be competitive in NIL money, but, in some cases, NOT.

EDIT: One commenter made the excellent point that having a relatively major airport in Columbus is another advantage over State College, especially for players with significant NIL resources.