Ohio State Benched Five Starters Against Maryland
Despite multiple absences due to injuries and illnesses, the Buckeyes secured a 45-16 victory on Saturday.
Updated on Oct. 11, 2026 in Football
Live Poll
Should collegiate teams prioritize player health over winning individual games?
Ohio State held out five football starters during their game against Maryland due to various injuries and ailments. Despite the depleted roster, the team secured a 45-16 win.
Why it matters
The team had to adjust its lineup significantly as starters were sidelined for the matchup. The program anticipates that some of the injured players will return for the upcoming game against Indiana.
Five starters were sidelined for the 45-16 win over Maryland, forcing lineup changes across the offensive line. Young talent stepped up as Chris Henry Jr. hauled in a 46-yard catch and TJ Alford recorded four tackles.
The players
Chris Henry Jr.
He is a rising football player for Ohio State who recorded his first career start during the game against Maryland.
TJ Alford
He is a linebacker for Ohio State who contributed to the defense with four tackles during the recent victory.
Austin Siereveld
He is an Ohio State football starter who was a late addition to the unavailable list due to illness.
The details
The team moved Gabe VanSickle to right tackle, with Jake Cook sliding into the right guard position to maintain offensive consistency. Chris Henry Jr. also made his first career start in the absence of the veteran starters.
Timeline
October 10, 2026: Ohio State held out five starters against Maryland.
October 17, 2026: Ohio State is scheduled to play at Indiana.
Season Trajectory
This game illustrates the reliance on roster depth for the Ohio State University football program as they navigate a mid-season injury wave. Success despite these absences keeps the team positioned to maintain momentum as they head into a road matchup against Indiana.
Fans should monitor the availability of the five missing starters heading into the October 17 game at Indiana. The forced rotation at right tackle and right guard could impact line consistency if the injured players do not return for the upcoming road trip.
The takeaway
Maintaining a deep roster remains essential for teams managing late-season injury uncertainty. Future game outcomes will likely hinge on the successful recovery of key personnel in the coming weeks.
Further reading
For more on team developments, visit the Football section.
Live Poll
Should collegiate teams prioritize player health over winning individual games?
