In Columbus, Ohio, the Ohio State football program aimed to reinforce its offensive line last winter and spring by seeking out top-notch Power 5 prospects. Despite this, they secured two players from the Group of Five level.
A year has passed, and the team is once again in pursuit of additional talent for their offensive line. Once more, the Buckeyes are attempting to entice candidates from major programs to potentially enhance their roster.
As initially reported by 247 Sports, OSU is anticipating a visit from Seth McLaughlin, the former starting center for Alabama. McLaughlin entered the NCAA transfer portal shortly after the Crimson Tide’s Rose Bowl playoff semifinal loss to Michigan.
McLaughlin showcased his proficiency as he started in the Crimson Tide’s last 22 games at center, including all 14 games this season for the SEC champions. However, this season, he grappled with recurring snapping issues, which contributed to offensive challenges during the Rose Bowl defeat against Michigan.
Pro Football Focus evaluated McLaughlin’s performance as average, assigning him a 59.4 overall grade. Throughout the season, he received seven penalties, allowed 14 pressures, and conceded one sack. Comparatively, his grades were notably higher in 2022, securing an overall grade of 74.3 when he started the final eight games at center.
Bringing McLaughlin on board would offer the team another seasoned option for the interior offensive line. With Matt Jones concluding his eligibility in the Cotton Bowl and Carson Hinzman being benched after starting the initial 12 games, the team lacks experienced alternatives.
The team faced challenges in the recent bowl game against Missouri, conceding four sacks and struggling to establish a consistent running performance. This setback marked a regression for a unit that had shown progress throughout an inconsistent season.
Before the prior season, OSU utilized the transfer portal to acquire Josh Simmons from San Diego State, who started all 13 games at left tackle. Additionally, the team added vic Cutler from Louisiana Monroe, who played center for the No. 2 offense before re-entering the portal post-season.
Currently, Ohio State also welcomed former Troy offensive tackle Derrick Graham for a visit this week.
The departures of Jones, Cutler, and Jakob Jones (also transferring) have left OSU without experienced options at center behind Hinzman. Bringing in McLaughlin would likely initiate a starting competition, especially as the team searches for a new starting quarterback. His addition could also impact the vacant right guard position.
While it might raise questions about OSU’s developmental progress to continually seek help for starting offensive line positions from the transfer portal, finding such options from successful Power 5 programs could signify a step forward in the team’s approach.
