COLUMBUS — Ohio State's offensive line has undergone several changes this season, with injuries and illness forcing players into unfamiliar positions and giving younger linemen opportunities to contribute. Now, with Austin Siereveld returning ahead of Saturday's game at USC, the Buckeyes have more options available as they prepare for the final stretch of the regular season.
The Buckeyes opened the season with Ian Moore at left tackle, Luke Montgomery at left guard, Carson Hinzman at center, Siereveld at right guard, and Phillip Daniels at right tackle. That combination changed when Daniels suffered an injury against Texas on September 12, forcing Ohio State to make adjustments on the right side.
Siereveld moved from guard to tackle, while Gabe VanSickle stepped into the starting lineup at right guard. The arrangement remained in place until Siereveld missed the October 10 Maryland game because of an illness, requiring another change on short notice.
VanSickle moved to right tackle, and sophomore Jake Cook made his first career start at right guard. The Buckeyes rushed for 207 yards in the 45-16 victory, although the offensive line also surrendered two sacks and had difficulty with Maryland's pressure at times.
Daniels returned the following week against Indiana, allowing VanSickle to move back to guard. Ohio State won 19-15, but the line surrendered four sacks against a talented Hoosiers defensive front, including the play on which quarterback Julian Sayin suffered his injury.
The experiences have given Ohio State's coaching staff a better understanding of what its linemen can handle. VanSickle has now played snaps at both guard and tackle, while Cook has gained starting experience after previously contributing as an additional blocker in the Buckeyes' heavier offensive formations.
Siereveld's return gives the Buckeyes additional flexibility. The senior has started at multiple positions during his Ohio State career and has already demonstrated his ability to move across the offensive line when needed.
Ryan Day said Wednesday that Siereveld practiced at right tackle, although the possibility of using him at guard or left tackle remains under consideration, albeit unlikely. Siereveld has been cleared to play after missing two games, but the coaching staff will determine how much he can handle as he continues to round back into form.
For Ohio State, having more experienced options available is especially big with a new starting quarterback preparing to replace Sayin. Whether Luke Fahey or Tavien St. Clair gets the start, the offensive line will have a major role in helping the quarterback settle into the game.
Day has emphasized the importance of the veteran linemen providing leadership during the quarterback transition. The additional playing time gained by VanSickle and Cook gives Ohio State alternatives if injuries or matchups require further adjustments.
The Buckeyes still have work to do in pass protection, as their performances against Maryland and Indiana demonstrated. However, with Siereveld returning and several players now capable of contributing at multiple positions, Ohio State enters Saturday's matchup with more experience and flexibility than it had coming into the season.
