Ohio State Likely To Play Kent State Without Two Starters

That development forces backups onto the offensive line and edge, serving as a live evaluation of depth before Big Ten play.

Overview

Ohio State head coach Ryan Day said two starters, right tackle Philip Daniels and defensive end Zion Grady, did not practice this week and their status is trending toward unavailable for the Noon ET game on Fox.
Projected offensive-line replacements include Austin Siereveld at right tackle with Gabe VanSickle and Joshua Padila providing guard depth if Daniels is out.
With limited veteran depth at defensive end, the Buckeyes could rotate Beau Atkinson, Qua Russaw, Eddrick Houston, James Smith, Epi Sitanilei, or freshman Khary Wilder opposite starter Kenyatta Jackson Jr.
The game will be used to steady the offense after Ohio State's loss to Texas and to give younger players in-game reps while coaches evaluate who can step into larger roles.
Kent State arrives as a heavy underdog with coach Mark Carney praising Ohio State, and the matchup doubles as a low-risk chance to protect starters ahead of the Buckeyes' conference opener.