Eric Boggs
As Ohio State fans, we know that every season brings new challenges and new faces stepping into the spotlight. With the 2024 season opener against Akron just around the corner, some key position battles have finally been settled, and a few Buckeyes are ready to make their mark.
First up is Tegra Tshabola, who will be starting as Ohio State’s right guard. This decision comes after a fierce preseason competition, with Tshabola earning the spot over Carson Hinzman. Ryan Day confirmed Tshabola’s starting role, highlighting his consistency throughout camp. While Tshabola may be unproven as a starter, his potential is undeniable. Standing tall at 6-foot-6 and weighing in at 327 pounds, Tshabola brings not just size but also rare athleticism for a player of his stature. As Buckeye fans, we can’t wait to see him translate that potential into performance on the field.
“Tegra’s got the length and athleticism we look for in our linemen,” offensive coordinator Chip Kelly mentioned earlier this month. “He’s got the ability to keep defenders at bay, and that’s crucial for us.”
Tshabola, a redshirt sophomore from West Chester, Ohio, has been cross-training at both tackle and guard, but this preseason, the focus on guard helped him secure the starting job. His emergence solidifies an offensive line that will also feature Josh Simmons at left tackle, Donovan Jackson at left guard, Seth McLaughlin at center, and Josh Fryar at right tackle. Though Tshabola is stepping into a starting role for the first time, his teammates and coaches have confidence in his abilities. Hinzman, who started at center last season, will now provide depth along the interior, ensuring the Buckeyes have plenty of talent ready to step in as needed.
On the defensive side, another crucial position battle was settled with the announcement that Sonny Styles will be the starting Will linebacker. Styles, who made a name for himself as a safety last season, has successfully transitioned to linebacker, beating out fellow junior C.J. Hicks for the starting job. Ryan Day praised Styles for his smooth transition and readiness to take on this new role. With his combination of size—6-foot-4 and 235 pounds—and the athleticism of a safety, Styles is poised to be a force at linebacker.
“Sonny’s really stepped up,” Day said, noting that Styles has not only adapted to the physical demands of playing closer to the line of scrimmage but also excelled in understanding and executing the complex responsibilities of a linebacker.
Styles will join Cody Simon in anchoring the linebacker corps, and with him in the lineup, the Buckeyes’ defense will enter the season with all 11 starters having previous starting experience. Hicks, despite not earning the starting role, is expected to play a significant role in the defense, with defensive coordinator Jim Knowles planning to use three-linebacker packages to maximize the talent on the field.
Finally, Devin Brown will start the season as Ohio State’s backup quarterback behind Will Howard. While Brown gave it his all during preseason camp, Howard’s experience and consistency earned him the starting role. Brown, however, has shown tremendous growth, and Day has expressed confidence in his ability to contribute when called upon.
“If he can keep up the consistency and take care of the football, Devin’s going to be a valuable player for us,” Day said earlier this month.
As Buckeye fans, we know the importance of depth and development, and with Brown, we have a backup quarterback who is more than capable. With Akron on the horizon, we might see both Brown and freshman Julian Sayin get some reps if the Buckeyes can build a big lead early.
As the 2024 season kicks off, the Buckeyes are locked and loaded, ready to showcase the talent and hard work that’s been put in during the offseason. Whether it’s Tshabola paving the way on the offensive line, Styles laying the wood at linebacker, or Brown waiting in the wings, the excitement is palpable. Let’s get ready to cheer on our Buckeyes as they begin their quest for another championship!
