Eric Boggs
As Buckeye Nation prepares for today’s top-five clash against Indiana, Ohio State faces both challenges and opportunities with its updated roster. While key injuries have struck, the team is rallying under the mantra of resilience and readiness to defend the Shoe.
The tough news came earlier this week when starting center Seth McLaughlin suffered a season-ending Achilles injury, joining offensive tackle Josh Simmons on the list of sidelined starters. Backup offensive lineman Zen Michalski also remains unavailable, missing his fourth straight game due to an injury sustained against Nebraska. Despite these setbacks, the Buckeyes have made strategic adjustments to keep their offensive line strong.
Carson Hinzman, who has been holding down the left guard position, will slide over to start at center in McLaughlin’s absence. Redshirt sophomore Austin Siereveld is set to fill Hinzman’s spot at left guard, showcasing the program’s depth and ability to adapt under pressure.
The injury report isn’t all bad news. Tight end Will Kacmarek, a key transfer from Ohio, is back in action after missing over a month due to an upper-body injury sustained against Oregon. Known for his blocking prowess, Kacmarek will bolster the Buckeyes’ two-tight end sets alongside Gee Scott Jr. Backup defensive end Mitchell Melton also returns, bringing fresh energy to the defensive front, while cornerbacks Calvin Simpson-Hunt and Aaron Scott Jr. provide critical depth in the secondary against Indiana’s potent passing attack.
Head coach Ryan Day shared his excitement and expectations during an appearance on The Pat McAfee Show, rallying fans and players alike for the high-stakes matchup.
“When you come to Ohio State, you’re here to win every single game. That’s the expectation,” Day emphasized. “This is a top-five matchup, our third of the year, and we’ve got this one at home. The crowd is going to bring that edge, and we’re ready to match it.”
Day also highlighted the unique pressure and pride that comes with being part of the Buckeye legacy, referencing an article that likened playing football at Ohio State to wrestling alligators or stepping into a tiger’s den. “That’s what tomorrow is going to feel like,” he said. “We’re ready for the challenge.”
As the noon kickoff approaches, Buckeye fans can expect a battle in every sense. With the No. 2-ranked team hosting No. 5 Indiana, the Shoe will be electric, fueled by a team determined to prove itself once again on the national stage.
And as Day put it simply, when told the Hoosiers are the real deal: “So are we.”
Go Bucks!
