Eric Boggs
A season ago, our main concern was the offensive line. And although Ohio State went 11-1 during the regular season, losing their final two games against TTUN and Missouri in the Cotton Bowl, the offensive line looked overwhelmed against better defensive lines. Here we are once again, with the same questions one season later concerning the offensive line.
“The O-line has been our main focus. After the summer, their bodies look different. You’ll see them next week during the open days of camp. They look good. Mick (Marotti)’s done a great job with them. They’ve had a good summer, but we know how important that is. This team will go as the offensive line goes. Same for the defensive line. So we know how crucial the O-line is.”
Ryan Day at Big Ten Media Days
With a defense everyone is hyping up and a treasure trove of wide receivers and running backs, the offensive line’s performance might be the make-or-break factor for the Buckeyes’ season. The silver lining? There’s more experience on the line this year than last. At least three starters from 2023 are back: Donovan Jackson at left guard, Josh Simmons at left tackle, and Josh Fryar at right tackle.
Seth McLaughlin transferred in from Alabama after starting at center for the Crimson Tide, and Carson Hinzman started at center for the Buckeyes until he got benched in their bowl game. That same Cotton Bowl featured one of the worst offensive line performances in recent memory from Ohio State.
The big competition this offseason and into fall camp is for the right guard spot. Exciting stuff, right?
“Josh Fryar has had an unbelievable summer. Donnie (Jackson) has been a leader. As for the right guard position, it’s between Carson Hinzman and Seth. They can both swing between center and guard. Tegra Tshabola has also stepped up, and Luke Montgomery is another option. We have some decent guys who can fill that role.”
Ryan Day at Big Ten Media Days
Hinzman ended his 2023 season as an afterthought in the battle for a starting spot on the O-line. But with glowing reviews from Day and teammates at media days, he seems like he might be a starter if the season began today. He’ll compete with Tshabola and Montgomery in fall camp.
“Carson Hinzman is a phenomenal player,” Jack Sawyer said. “He’s got a lot of great football ahead of him. He’s a hard worker, really humble, and I’m excited to see how he does in fall camp. He had a great offseason.”
