The Ohio State Buckeyes have long been known for their elite offensive line play, and as the 2025 college football season approaches, ensuring that the Buckeyes continue to dominate at the line of scrimmage will be crucial. With the transfer portal continuing to be an invaluable resource, Ohio State has the opportunity to add key pieces to their offensive line to maintain their high standard of excellence.
While Ohio State has recruited at a high level and developed strong offensive line units, adding experienced, impactful transfers can help them continue their tradition of dominance. Here are five offensive linemen that Ohio State should consider targeting from the transfer portal to help improve their offensive line depth and overall play.
1. Logan Taylor (Virginia Tech)
Logan Taylor is a 6’6″, 315-pound offensive tackle from Virginia Tech who has been a key player for the Hokies since his freshman year. Taylor played both tackle spots during his time at Virginia Tech, showcasing his versatility—a trait that would be invaluable for Ohio State as they look to add depth and competition to their offensive line.
Why Ohio State Should Target Him:
- Positional Flexibility: Taylor has started at both left and right tackle, providing Ohio State with the ability to move him around based on need.
- Experience: He’s started 28 games over his college career and played against some of the toughest defensive lines in the ACC, making him battle-tested and ready to contribute right away.
- Proven Pass Protection: Taylor has shown that he can protect the quarterback at a high level, which would be important for Ohio State’s high-powered offense.
With the ability to start immediately and provide depth at both tackle positions, Taylor could be a great addition to Ohio State’s offensive line room.
2. Jarrett Patterson (Notre Dame)
Jarrett Patterson is one of the top interior offensive linemen available in the transfer portal. A 6’5″, 312-pound center who has started 40 games for the Notre Dame Fighting Irish, Patterson has proven himself to be one of the best at his position. His leadership and experience in big games would make him an excellent fit for Ohio State, especially given the team’s need for a consistent, veteran presence on the interior line.
Why Ohio State Should Target Him:
- Elite Experience: Patterson has been a starter for nearly his entire career at Notre Dame and has excelled at the center position. His experience against elite competition in the ACC and the College Football Playoff gives him a high ceiling in the Big Ten.
- Leadership: Patterson has been a team captain and is known for his leadership both on and off the field. His experience as a leader of the Notre Dame offensive line would be invaluable to Ohio State’s younger players.
- Proven Success in Big Games: Patterson has been a part of several high-pressure games in the playoff picture and understands how to handle the intensity of top-tier competition.
With Ohio State looking to solidify their center position, Patterson would be an ideal candidate to fill that need and elevate the team’s offensive line.
3. Micah Mazzccua (Baylor)
Micah Mazzccua, a 6’6″, 340-pound guard from Baylor, is an imposing figure on the offensive line. Mazzccua played in the Big 12 and has been a standout player for the Bears. His size, combined with his ability to move well for a player of his stature, makes him a perfect candidate for Ohio State, who could use a powerful and mobile guard.
Why Ohio State Should Target Him:
- Size and Strength: Mazzccua’s 340-pound frame gives him an immediate advantage in both the running game and pass protection. His power can help Ohio State’s running backs find lanes, and his size would help him in one-on-one pass-blocking situations.
- Physicality: Mazzccua has shown excellent aggression in his run blocking, which is a key component of Ohio State’s physical style of offense.
- Big-Game Experience: He’s played in big games in the Big 12, including conference championship games, which gives him valuable experience in high-pressure moments.
Mazzccua’s combination of size, strength, and experience would provide a powerful presence on Ohio State’s offensive line, especially at the guard position.
4. Jalen Goss (Syracuse)
Jalen Goss, a 6’5″, 320-pound offensive tackle from Syracuse, is a name that has been gaining attention in the transfer portal. After three seasons as a key starter for the Orange, Goss has shown that he is capable of holding his own against some of the top defensive lines in the ACC. His combination of size, strength, and athleticism could make him an immediate contributor for Ohio State.
Why Ohio State Should Target Him:
- Athleticism and Movement: Despite his size, Goss moves incredibly well for a player of his stature, which would make him a great fit for Ohio State’s zone-blocking schemes.
- Power in the Run Game: Goss has proven to be a physical presence at the line of scrimmage, particularly in the running game. His ability to create push would fit perfectly with Ohio State’s powerful rushing attack.
- Improvement Potential: Goss has continued to improve each year at Syracuse and has shown the ability to be coached up into a more polished player. At Ohio State, with its top-tier coaching staff, Goss could reach his full potential.
With his size, athleticism, and potential for growth, Goss could be a long-term starter for Ohio State at tackle.
5. Austin Stogner (Oklahoma State)
While Austin Stogner might not be an immediate name most would associate with the offensive line, he has the type of versatility that could make him a useful addition to Ohio State’s roster. Stogner is a former offensive tackle turned tight end at Oklahoma State, standing at 6’6″ and 265 pounds. His combination of size and experience at the line of scrimmage would allow him to contribute to the Buckeyes as a hybrid player, helping both as a blocker and in short-yardage situations.
Why Ohio State Should Target Him:
- Versatility: Stogner could provide depth as a blocking tight end and also contribute on the offensive line when needed, giving Ohio State additional flexibility in their playcalling.
- Elite Size and Strength: His size and strength could allow him to excel in short-yardage and goal-line situations, where he can be used as both a blocker and a power player.
- Experience and Toughness: Having spent time on the offensive line and then transitioning to tight end, Stogner has the kind of physicality Ohio State loves. His ability to block in space and at the line of scrimmage would be an asset to the Buckeyes.
Although not a traditional offensive lineman, Stogner’s unique skill set makes him a valuable addition to Ohio State’s offensive line group.
Conclusion
As Ohio State continues to build towards another championship run, their success will depend on maintaining dominance in the trenches. By adding experienced players from the transfer portal, such as Logan Taylor, Jarrett Patterson, Micah Mazzccua, Jalen Goss, and Austin Stogner, the Buckeyes can continue to dominate at the line of scrimmage and provide the foundation for another explosive offense. These players bring a wealth of experience, size, and versatility that will allow Ohio State to remain competitive in the ever-challenging Big Ten and on the national stage.
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