Justin Frye Gives Update on Search for Right Tackle

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The jury is still out on which players will comprise the Ohio State Buckeyes’ starting offensive line.

Replacing some key departures from the front five was one of the biggest needs for the Buckeyes entering this offseason. During media availability on Monday, Ohio State offensive line coach Justin Frye said the search is still on-going when a reporter asked if he had found his starters.

“We’re still trying to find those five, and what that is I don’t have an answer,” 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.”

Frye mentioned a few contenders by name, including senior Donovan Jackson. The native Texan put in work over his time away from the team last winter, which has not gone unnoticed by Frye.

Two others in contention to become one of the starting five this season are Alabama Crimson Tide transfer Seth McLaughlin and Buckeyes junior Carson Hinzman. Frye said Hinzman has grown to better understand the game over his time at Ohio State, which puts him in prime position for a promotion.

“He has that book of work that he can look back on, the understanding of the game and understanding of 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.”