Ohio State piecing together best five offensive linemen this spring

COLUMBUS, Ohio (WSYX) — Ohio State only lost one starter on the offensive line from last season with right guard Matt Jones declaring early for the NFL Draft.

However, after some questionable performances last season, there is competition at all five positions this spring.

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“We’re still trying to find those five, and what that is I don’t have an answer," Ohio State offensive line coach Justin Frye said. "I keep bouncing back to that question over and over, but good, gradable reps versus a good defensive front. As we come out of this thing, we’ll have a good picture for where we’re headed.”

Alabama transfer Seth McLaughlin already has made strides, shedding his black stripe and officially becoming a Buckeye on Saturday after eight practices with his new team. McLaughlin said he feels as if he has been a Buckeye for the last four years how quickly he was accepted.

“I’m absolutely head over heels so happy,” he said. “It’s super refreshing being here. I love the guys in the locker room. Truly, I hope they can see I can add to this team in a positive way.”

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McLaughlin is currently battling with returning center Carson Hinzman for the starting job. The two have been making each other better in the battle.

“He’s been a great addition to the team and a great addition to the o-line room,” Hinzman said of McLaughlin. “That competition has been going very well. I think I’ve gotten so much better because of that. And I think he can say he’s gotten a lot better as well.”

Hinzman was benched during the Cotton Bowl, and he said he fully supported the coaching staff’s decision. He is now focused on having a good spring, putting in work in the weight room. Hinzman said he’s 298 pounds and hopes to be, “a real 303” in the fall going into year three.

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“He has that book of work that he can look back on, the understanding of the game and understanding the speed of the game and the intensity,” Frye said. “He doesn’t get incrementally faster or stronger; the game mentally slows down for him so he can use his skillset that way. He can play more contact, more comfortable.”

The unit is also eager to pave the way for Ohio State’s arsenal of talented running backs, working to make strides in the Buckeyes run game this fall under new offensive coordinator Chip Kelly.

“He’s very creative,” Josh Fryar said about Kelly. “I can’t get too much into detail about that, but Coach Kelly brings a new perspective. He’s a great persona, a great human being, and a super good coach.”