The College Football Playoff (CFP) championship game between Ohio State and Notre Dame marks the culmination of a demanding 16-game season, significantly longer than the traditional 11- or 12-game schedules. As the Buckeyes prepare for Monday’s title game, their injury situation is a critical factor in determining how they will fare. Here’s an overview of Ohio State’s injury report and its implications.
Players Out Due to Injuries
Several players have been ruled out, primarily due to injuries sustained earlier in the season or during preseason preparations:
1. Rashid SeSay (RB): Out with an undisclosed injury since midseason, SeSay had not been a significant contributor before his absence.
2. Reis Stockdale (WR): Like SeSay, Stockdale has been sidelined since midseason with an undisclosed injury and had minimal impact on the field prior to his injury.
3. TC Caffey (RB): Caffey suffered a serious knee injury during preseason camp and has missed the entire 2024 season. He will not be available for the championship game.
4. Josh Simmons (OT): A starting offensive tackle, Simmons suffered a knee injury in October against Oregon and has been out ever since. His absence has been notable, but the team has managed to adjust.
5. Seth McLaughlin (C): McLaughlin was a standout center before tearing his Achilles late in the regular season. His absence will continue to impact Ohio State’s offensive line in the championship.
Players Listed as Questionable
A couple of key contributors are uncertain for the championship game:
1. Inky Jones (S): Jones has been dealing with an undisclosed late-season injury, and his status remains questionable for the game.
2. Mason Maggs (QB): Maggs, also battling an undisclosed injury, is another question mark for the title game against Notre Dame.
Players Likely to Play Despite Injuries
Some players are expected to take the field despite minor injury concerns:
1. Austin Sereveld (OG): After dealing with an undisclosed injury prior to the semifinal against Texas, Sereveld played in that game, indicating he will likely suit up for the championship.
2. J.T. Tuimoloau (DE): Tuimoloau, a dominant defensive end, sustained a minor injury during the semifinals against Texas but returned to action. He is expected to play a significant role in the championship game.
3. Denzel Burke (CB): Burke, a key player in Ohio State’s secondary, saw limited action against Texas due to injury or illness but is expected to be a full participant in the title game.
Impact on the CFP Championship
Ohio State has managed injuries effectively throughout the season, but the absence of key players like Simmons and McLaughlin on the offensive line remains a concern. While players like Tuimoloau and Burke are likely to play, their effectiveness could be limited depending on the severity of their injuries. These factors, combined with the depth and adaptability of Ohio State’s roster, will play a pivotal role in their performance against Notre Dame.
What’s your take on Ohio State’s injury report and its impact on Monday’s championship game? Share your thoughts!