The Ohio State Buckeyes are facing a major reshuffling of their offensive line after a series of unexpected setbacks in the 2024 season. The troubles began early when Donovan Jackson was sidelined with an injury, creating a domino effect that has plagued the offensive line ever since.
Injuries to key players, such as Josh Simmons and Seth McLaughlin, who both went down for the season, have forced constant lineup changes. The team’s struggles were painfully evident during their rivalry game against Michigan, where the offensive line faltered in the run game, unable to establish the necessary push up front. Despite a game plan focused on running the ball up the middle, the offensive line couldn’t provide the needed protection and blocking, leaving Ohio State’s ground attack largely ineffective.
As the Buckeyes look ahead to their College Football Playoff aspirations, it’s clear that another major adjustment is necessary if they hope to strengthen their front line. A mid-game realignment during the Michigan game felt like a missed opportunity, and now the team must move forward with a more decisive plan.
One of the key concerns has been the performance of Carson Hinzman, who has been filling in as center after the injuries. However, his snaps have been inconsistent, lacking the accuracy and precision necessary for high-level play. As a result, many believe Hinzman should be moved back to his more natural position at guard, where he performed well during the 2023 season. This adjustment could be a critical step for Ohio State as they prepare for the postseason.
Tegra Tshabola, who has struggled at right guard, also remains a question mark. His performance has been uneven, and it’s becoming clear that his position in the lineup could be in jeopardy. The proposed solution to these challenges is to shift Austin Siereveld to right guard, move Hinzman back to left guard, and insert Josh Padilla into the center position. This alignment could provide the stability the Buckeyes need to reinforce their offensive line as they head into the playoff race.
As Ohio State gears up for its postseason run, these adjustments are not merely strategic—they are vital to the team’s success. By realigning the offensive front, the Buckeyes can solidify their offensive game plan and increase their chances of making a deep playoff run, ensuring that they remain competitive on the national stage. The time for changes is now, and Ohio State’s future depends on getting their offensive line in top shape for the playoff challenge ahead.
