These Ohio State football players are out with COVID

The Ohio State football program just released their availability report for today’s Big Ten Championship Game. These are the players who are out with COVID.

COVID has been a huge problem for the Ohio State football team this year. They have had three games canceled due to COVID and are now having a fourth game impacted by it. While the Buckeyes will play today for a Big Ten title, they will have to do so without some key players.

One of those key players is wide receiver Chris Olave. Olave has been the best receiver all season long and has excellent chemistry with Justin Fields. Not having him for this game isn’t a huge deal, but he could be out for a semi-final game if the Big Ten doesn’t change their 21-day rule.

Starting linebacker Baron Browning is also out for this game. He is the only defensive starter who is out for the game, which is a good thing. Linebacker is a very deep position for this Buckeye team so they should be fine for this game and beyond there.

Punter Drue Chrisman is also out. He is a huge loss because he is one of the best punters in America. His ability to flip the field has been invaluable for the Buckeyes. It’s unclear who will be taking the punting duties today. Hopefully, they won’t be needed at all.

Coaches Brian Hartline and Al Washington will also miss the game. Missing those coaches won’t be a huge deal in this game. If they miss a CFP game though, that could be an issue. Ohio State needs a full staff in those games.

Ohio State should still be able to win today’s game despite these COVID absences.