Ryan Day gets real honest on why the Ohio State Buckeyes are starting one transfer over an expected starter
It was a big decision for Ohio State.
Though the Ohio State Buckeyes had 14 players selected in the most recent NFL Draft, they didn’t hit the transfer portal as aggressively as they did the previous offseason. Instead, Ohio State targeted a few key additions they felt were necessary, along with a luxury piece in tight end Max Klare. The biggest priority, however, was adding depth and talent along the offensive line.
The Buckeyes brought in Ethan Onianwa and Phillip Daniels with the hope that they had secured both starting offensive tackle spots. That didn’t quite play out, as Daniels earned a starting job while Austin Siereveld locked down the left tackle position.
Ryan Day explains how Phillip Daniels won a starting job
Coming over from Minnesota, Daniels is now Ohio State’s starting right tackle, while Onianwa rotated in at right guard during the first game against Texas. Just a few months ago, many believed it would be the other way around.
“It was consistency,” Day said of how Daniels won the right tackle job. “I think Phil [Daniels] plays with an edge. Ethan [Onianwa] is still going to be a very important part of that position. He’s kind of swinging between right guard and right tackle right now.”
Daniels played all 59 snaps at right tackle against the Longhorns, while Onianwa rotated in for 15 snaps at right guard when Tegra Tshabola was off the field. Ohio State’s offensive line was a huge factor in the Buckeyes’ win, holding up against a talented Texas defensive front. The Buckeyes didn’t allow a single sack, which was critical for freshman quarterback Julian Sayin in his first career start.
Onianwa, one of the top-ranked tackles in the transfer portal, had interest from several Power Four programs. After starting at Rice, he now serves as a backup for Ohio State. Day and his staff have emphasized the importance of flexibility along the offensive line, and Daniels’ ability to play both tackle and guard ensures he’ll find playing time whether he’s in the starting lineup or not.
Ohio State is back in action on Saturday against Grambling State at 3:30 p.m. in Columbus. It’s a matchup that should allow the Buckeyes to build an early lead and give their backups valuable reps.
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