Ohio State's Offensive and Defensive Lines Differ in Approach

Spring practice notes highlight contrasting roster-building strategies for the trenches

Published on Mar. 10, 2026

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Ohio State's offensive and defensive lines are taking different approaches to roster-building ahead of the 2026 season. The veteran-laden offensive line returns most of its starters from 2025, while the defensive line has undergone a significant overhaul through the transfer portal, adding several experienced players from other programs.

Why it matters

The contrasting approaches highlight the evolving landscape of college football, where the transfer portal has become a crucial tool for teams to quickly address roster needs. Ohio State's ability to blend its experienced offensive line with the influx of talent on the defensive line will be key to the team's success in the upcoming season.

The details

Ohio State's first-team offensive line on the first day of spring practice featured four players with a combined 5,705 career snaps, providing stability and experience up front. In contrast, the defensive line saw the addition of several high-profile transfers, including Qua Russaw from Alabama and James Smith, also from Alabama, as well as John Walker from UCF. These new additions are expected to bolster the Buckeyes' pass rush and interior defensive line.

  • Ohio State began spring practice on March 10, 2026.

The players

Austin Siereveld

A team captain and the Buckeyes' starting left tackle in 2025.

Qua Russaw

A transfer from Alabama, expected to be one of the most explosive defensive linemen on the team.

James Smith

A transfer from Alabama, joining the Buckeyes' defensive line rotation.

John Walker

A transfer from UCF, entering his fifth season of college football.

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What they’re saying

“The roster-building aspect of the two lines of scrimmage was on display on Tuesday morning, as a hectic transfer portal showed its first product during spring practice.”

— Andrew Gillis, Author (cleveland.com)

What’s next

The Buckeyes will continue to evaluate their offensive and defensive line rotations throughout the spring practice period, with the goal of finding the optimal combination of experience and new talent to compete in the 2026 season.

The takeaway

Ohio State's contrasting approaches to building its offensive and defensive lines highlight the evolving nature of college football roster management. The Buckeyes' ability to blend their veteran offensive line with the influx of transfer portal talent on defense will be crucial to their success in the upcoming season.