Ohio State football nearing decision for starting offensive line

Ohio State football coach Ryan Day is nearing a decision for the starting offensive line as the last week of preseason training camp concludes. The players who have been receiving the majority of first-team reps throughout camp are Phillip Daniels (right tackle), Carson Hinzman (center), Luke Montgomery (left guard), Ian Moore (left tackle), and Austin Siereveld (right guard). Day indicated that this group is likely to comprise the starting offensive line, but it remains to be seen how it performs.

Day expressed optimism about the depth in the offensive line, stating that they have more depth than they have probably had in a long time. The Buckeyes entered the preseason with only one open spot up front due to right guard Tegra Tshabola transferring to Kentucky. Moore emerged as a frontrunner to fill this spot after his strong performance off the bench against the Hurricanes.

Day highlighted Moore's athleticism, strength, positive mentality, and intelligence, emphasizing that experience is crucial for offensive linemen. Moore is currently playing with confidence as he enters his third year in college.

However, Siereveld suffered an injury early in camp, missing several practices and delaying the decision. Despite this setback, Siereveld has been instrumental in determining the starting five, sliding over to right guard when Moore lines up and moving back to left tackle when players like Padilla take first-team snaps. Day believes Siereveld has NFL guard potential, capable of playing both tackle positions.

The starting five, comprising Daniels, Hinzman, Montgomery, Moore, and Siereveld, has garnered positive attention due to their strong play, particularly in the tackle position.