The Ohio State Buckeyes return to Big Ten action in Week 6 when they host the Maryland Terrapins for their homecoming game. Ohio State won’t be at full strength against Maryland. Multiple starters could miss the 4:15 p.m. ET kickoff Saturday in Columbus on Big Ten Network.

Ahead of the matchup, the Buckeyes have three starters listed as doubtful, along with a key freshman. Wide receiver Brandon Inniss, linebacker Christian Alliegro, and offensive lineman Phillip Daniels are all doubtful against the Terrapins. Freshman defensive end Khary Wilder is also doubtful.

There is good news on the availability report as well. Wide receiver Devin McCuin and cornerback Jay Timmons are listed as probable, so there’s a good chance both suit up against Maryland.

Brandon Inniss is the biggest loss for Ohio State

Not having Inniss is the toughest blow for the Buckeyes. He’s Ohio State’s Block O recipient, a leader of this team, and a starting wide receiver. His production hasn’t jumped off the page, with 10 catches for 147 yards. Still, his value goes beyond the stat sheet.

Inniss is a key blocker in an offense that runs through Jeremiah Smith. With Inniss out, expect to see more of Brock Boyd, Chris Henry Jr., and Phillip Bell in the receiver rotation. It’s a chance for that group to earn more snaps against a Big Ten opponent.

Young linebackers will get a chance against Maryland

Alliegro’s absence opens the door for a couple of young players on defense. Peyton Pierce will still be on the field for the Buckeyes. From there, expect more of Riley Pettijohn and TJ Alford.

Pettijohn and Alford are a pair of sophomore linebackers who have impressed when given the opportunity. Against a lesser Big Ten opponent like Maryland, it makes sense for Ohio State to let them run and see what they can do with more reps.

Wilder’s situation is a different story. The freshman did not play against Iowa, and he hasn’t seen the field since the Week 4 game against Illinois. Missing two games in a row is bad news for a player who has already had inconsistent playing time as a rotational piece on the defensive line.

Indiana looms after Week 6

Losing a handful of players isn’t ideal for any program, but this is the right week for it to happen. Ohio State is favored by more than four touchdowns for a reason. The Buckeyes should be able to control this game from start to finish against the Terrapins.

Getting through the Maryland game clean is going to be key. Indiana is up next in Week 7, and it’s a crucial game for Ohio State’s regular season. How quickly Inniss, Alliegro, Daniels, and Wilder get back on the field will be worth watching as the Hoosiers come into focus.