Ohio State Football Faces Major Setback as Another Key Offensive Lineman Likely Out for Season
Ohio State football‘s quest for a national title has taken a major blow with the injury of starting center Seth McLaughlin. The veteran lineman, who transferred from Alabama this offseason, is expected to miss the remainder of the season after tearing his Achilles tendon in practice on Tuesday. The injury comes just days before the No. 2 Buckeyes are set to face off against No. 5 Indiana in a highly anticipated matchup that could have major implications for the College Football Playoff race.
A Key Loss for Ohio State’s Offensive Line
McLaughlin, who has been a cornerstone of Ohio State’s offensive line this season, has started every game for the Buckeyes. According to Pro Football Focus, he has the 11th-best offensive grade among centers in Power Five conferences and has been an essential part of Ohio State’s protection scheme. The 6’3″, 305-pound McLaughlin has played a total of 565 snaps this season, including 290 in pass protection, and has allowed zero sacks.
With McLaughlin out, Ohio State’s offensive line, already in flux due to previous injuries, faces a new challenge. His loss places added pressure on an already banged-up unit that has had to shuffle around throughout the season. Most notably, starting left tackle Josh Simmons suffered a season-ending knee injury against Oregon on October 12. His replacement, Zen Michalski, was also injured in the next game, leaving the Buckeyes with even fewer options on the line.
Potential Adjustments to the Offensive Line
The Buckeyes have already had to adjust their offensive line in recent weeks. Left guard Donovan Jackson was moved to left tackle to cover for Simmons, while backup center Carson Hinzman was shifted to left guard. Hinzman, who started at center last season, could be moved back to his natural position to replace McLaughlin.
If Hinzman takes over at center, the Buckeyes will likely look to Austin Siereveld to fill in at left guard. Siereveld has experience in the role, having started at left guard earlier this season when Jackson was sidelined. The reshuffling of positions will undoubtedly challenge an already thin line, but head coach Ryan Day and offensive line coach Justin Frye will have to make do with the hand they’re dealt.
McLaughlin’s Journey to Ohio State
McLaughlin’s journey to Ohio State was a significant one. After spending four years at Alabama, where he started 24 games across the last three seasons, including 13 during the Crimson Tide’s College Football Playoff run last year, McLaughlin transferred to Ohio State in hopes of contributing to a championship-caliber team. His experience at Alabama has been invaluable to the Buckeyes’ offensive line, and he quickly established himself as a reliable starter for the team.
Despite his injury, McLaughlin’s leadership and experience will still be felt on the sidelines. His ability to communicate with his teammates and offer guidance will be critical as Ohio State looks to weather yet another injury storm.
The Road Ahead for Ohio State
As Ohio State heads into a critical stretch of the season, including their matchup against Indiana this weekend, the offensive line will be under the microscope. McLaughlin’s injury only adds to the uncertainty as the Buckeyes work to fine-tune their line ahead of the College Football Playoff race.
For now, Ohio State will look to Hinzman, Siereveld, and the rest of the offensive line to step up and maintain the offensive balance they’ve had all season. While McLaughlin’s loss is significant, the Buckeyes have a wealth of depth and talent on their roster that they hope will help them navigate this difficult period.
As for McLaughlin, the road to recovery will be a long one, but his time at Ohio State has made a positive impact, and the team will no doubt rally around his absence as they push forward in the national championship hunt.
