The Ohio State football team may have found its new left tackle in Zen Michalski following Josh Simmons' injury during the game against Oregon. Michalski, who joined the Buckeyes in 2021, stepped up after years of development and showed promise in his first significant playing time against a tough opponent. Though he is relatively untested, his performance may signal a potential shift in the offensive line's stability as he prepares for a starting role.

By the Numbers
  • Michalski played a career-high 46 snaps in his first meaningful game.
  • He was the 21st-ranked offensive tackle nationally in the 2021 recruiting class.
Yes, But

While Michalski's performance was commendable under pressure, he still has a long way to go in terms of experience and consistency against formidable defenses. Critics might point to the fact that he has only limited playing time in earlier seasons, which raises questions about his readiness for a full-time starting role.

State of Play
  • Josh Simmons is likely out for the rest of the season, increasing the pressure on Michalski.
  • Ohio State needs to bolster its offensive line to effectively protect quarterback Will Howard.
What's Next

As Michalski prepares as the starting left tackle, the focus will be on his progression and ability to adapt quickly to the challenges ahead. The Buckeyes will rely heavily on him to ensure quarterback protection and improve offensive stability moving forward.

Bottom Line

Zen Michalski's initial performance showcases potential, but the real test lies ahead. For Ohio State to maintain its competitive edge, Michalski must quickly evolve from a backup to a reliable starter, proving he can consistently protect the blind side.