Eric Boggs
Seth McLaughlin, Ohio State’s standout center, has officially been crowned the best center in college football for the 2024 season, earning the prestigious Rimington Trophy. This accolade places McLaughlin in elite company as the fourth Buckeye to win the award, joining LeCharles Bentley (2001), Pat Elflein (2016), and Billy Price (2017). Ohio State now holds the outright record for the most Rimington winners, surpassing rival Michigan’s three since the award’s inception in 2000.
Despite playing only 10 games this season due to a torn Achilles suffered in practice before Ohio State’s game against Indiana, McLaughlin’s dominance on the field was undeniable. He excelled as both a pass protector and run blocker, anchoring an offensive line that helped the Buckeyes’ offense thrive. His efforts contributed significantly to Ohio State’s resurgence as one of the nation’s top offenses before his injury.
McLaughlin’s journey to this achievement was one of redemption. After a challenging end to his tenure at Alabama—marked by costly errors in a CFP semifinal loss to Michigan—he transferred to Ohio State in January. Reflecting on his single season as a Buckeye, McLaughlin expressed gratitude for the opportunity to grow both on and off the field. “It’s been great. It’s everything I needed,” he said. “For the people at Ohio State to welcome me in with open arms and really pour into me and develop me further, it’s been incredible.”
Ohio State felt McLaughlin’s absence keenly in their regular-season finale against Michigan, managing only 10 points on 252 yards of offense. His injury forced the Buckeyes to reshuffle their offensive line multiple times, culminating in struggles against a strong Wolverines’ defense. As the team prepares for a College Football Playoff showdown against Tennessee, McLaughlin has embraced a new role as a mentor.
“We’ve got some young guys stepping up, and I’m doing my best to coach them up,” McLaughlin said. “Hopefully, I can be the middleman between the players and coaches, translating things and helping however I can.”
Ohio State faces a formidable challenge in Tennessee’s defensive front, which ranks among the best in the nation. The Volunteers allow just 13.9 points and 278.3 yards per game, both the fourth-lowest marks in the FBS. Head coach Ryan Day has hinted at potential changes to the offensive line, with Joshua Padilla and Luke Montgomery competing for starting roles.
For McLaughlin, his time as a Buckeye has not only revitalized his playing career but also prepared him for the next chapter in the NFL. Comparing his experiences under Nick Saban at Alabama and Ryan Day at Ohio State, McLaughlin highlighted the distinct lessons he’s learned. “Coach Saban’s approach molded me with a strong foundation, and Coach Day’s openness to adapting and listening to players has been enlightening,” he said.
Even as he transitions to the professional level, McLaughlin’s legacy at Ohio State will endure. In addition to the Rimington Trophy, he’ll have a tree planted in Buckeye Grove for being named a first-team All-American. Off the field, McLaughlin’s academic achievements earned him a spot as a finalist for the Campbell Trophy, which honors college football’s top scholar-athlete.
Though his season ended prematurely, Seth McLaughlin’s impact on Ohio State’s football program has been profound. As the Buckeyes prepare to host Tennessee under the lights on Dec. 21, McLaughlin remains an integral part of the team’s spirit and preparation. “We’ve got a lot riding on this one,” McLaughlin said. “It’s going to be a huge game, and I’m confident the Buckeyes will put on a show.”
