Carson Hinzman, the Ohio State center, is poised to assume a significant leadership role for the Buckeyes in the 2026 season, a necessity as the team navigates the departure of key veterans. The senior will be a crucial figure on an offensive line returning four starters, tasked with guiding a unit aiming to protect Heisman candidate Julian Sayin and establish a dominant running game led by Bo Jackson.
Hinzman’s path to this position has been unconventional. Initially recruited as a guard, he unexpectedly started at center during his freshman year. His first stint as a starter proved turbulent, culminating in a benching during the 2023 Cotton Bowl following a podcast appearance. Despite starting the 2024 season on the bench, injuries forced his return to the lineup, this time at guard. He ultimately reclaimed the center position at the beginning of the 2025 season.
The Buckeyes are counting on Hinzman’s experience and resilience as they seek to build upon an offense that returns eight starters. While the team lost backup quarterback Lincoln Kienholz to the transfer portal, joining Louisville, the focus remains on providing Sayin with a stable and experienced supporting cast. Tavien St. Clair is expected to serve as Sayin’s primary backup in 2026, with Luke Fahey, a three-star recruit, competing for the third spot on the depth chart.
Head coach Ryan Day has expressed confidence in Sayin’s ability to lead the team, but the offensive line’s performance, and Hinzman’s leadership within it, will be critical to the Buckeyes’ national championship aspirations. The team has too brought in Arthur Smith from the NFL to serve as the offensive play caller.
Hinzman’s journey from a briefly benched freshman to a potential team leader underscores the evolving dynamics of the Ohio State roster. His ability to anchor the offensive line will be a key factor as the Buckeyes attempt to navigate a challenging 2026 season.
