The Buckeyes might need to turn to this contingency plan as soon as this week as they host Indiana in a top-five matchup on Saturday. McLaughlin tore an Achilles tendon in practice on Tuesday, an injury that is likely to sideline him for the rest of the season and prompt Ohio State to again reshuffle the offensive line.

Starting left tackle Josh Simmons suffered a season-ending knee injury during Ohio State’s loss at Oregon on Oct. 12. His replacement, Zen Michalski, was injured in the Buckeyes' next game two weeks later. The injuries forced left guard Donovan Jackson to left tackle and backup center Carson Hinzman to left guard.

Another starting offensive lineman for Ohio State has reportedly suffered a season-ending injury.  According to the Columbus Dispatch, star center Seth McLaughlin suffered a torn Achilles tendon during practice on Tuesday and will miss the remainder of the season.