Eric Boggs
As Ohio State prepares to face Purdue, the Buckeyes will have nearly all of their regular starters available, with the exception of Josh Simmons, who is out for the season.
Tyleik Williams, who had an ankle injury during the fourth quarter of the Buckeyes’ 20-13 victory over then-No. 3 Penn State, is officially listed as available for this week’s game. This is a huge relief for Ohio State, especially given the uncertainty at the 3-technique defensive tackle position when Williams missed games against Marshall and Michigan State earlier in the season due to a different injury. Williams has been a force on the defensive line, with 21 tackles, four tackles for loss, and 2.5 sacks in just six games. His return is critical for the Buckeyes, but even though he’s listed as “available,” his actual playing status could be subject to cautionary measures, as he was available for the Michigan State game but held out for precautionary reasons.
Tight end Will Kacmarek, who has been out for the last two weeks with an upper-body injury suffered in Week 7 against Oregon, will miss his third straight game. Offensive tackle Zen Michalski, who replaced Simmons at left tackle before suffering a lower-body injury himself, will miss his second consecutive game. Cornerback Calvin Simpson-Hunt will also sit out, marking his first game missed this season.
While Kacmarek’s absence will be felt, especially as Ohio State’s second tight end, there’s optimism for his recovery. Ryan Day shared an encouraging update on Kacmarek’s progress, noting that he’s healing quickly and could be back in a couple of weeks, ahead of schedule according to reports from the training staff and strength coach Mick Marotti. In the meantime, tight ends Jelani Thurman and Bennett Christian will continue to step up behind starter Gee Scott Jr.
On the offensive line, Ohio State’s makeshift lineup has found some rhythm, particularly after the solid performance against Penn State. With Michalski out, Donovan Jackson shifted to left tackle, and Carson Hinzman filled in at left guard. Day has stated that the team will stick with this current offensive line combination, even if Michalski becomes available again. The hope is to maintain the positive synergy that emerged from the Penn State game, and Michalski’s return would simply give the team more options if needed.
Ohio State fans are looking forward to the game against Purdue, as the Buckeyes look to maintain their momentum and stay on track for a strong finish to the season. Kickoff is set for noon on FOX.
