This Ohio State football player has made a massive improvement this year

The Ohio State football team has had some issues recruiting on the offensive line in recent years. That's part of the reason why they have two starting offensive linemen who are transfers. Ryan Day had to bring them in because Justin Frye has failed to fill the offensive line room with depth.

Seth McLaughlin was brought in to be the starting center from Alabama this year. Last year, it was Josh Simmons. Simmons was brought in from San Diego State to be the starting left tackle. He was the starter last season but didn't perform particularly well.

For most of last season, I actually thought Simmons was the worst offensive lineman on a unit that was the worst unit the Ohio State Buckeyes had. I actually thought in the offseason that they should replace him. I've been proven wrong because Simmons has been fantastic.

Josh Simmons has been one of the most improved Ohio State football players

Simmons has been one of the most improved Buckeyes on the roster this season. Not only has he been much better in pass protection, which was his worst area, but he's been great in the ground game. He's been able to stay on balance and get into the second level.

While the clip below is an example of him getting out in space in the run game, it also shows how his lateral quickness has improved. That is very helpful out on the edge as a left tackle protecting Will Howard's blindside.

His athleticism is what attracted Day to Simmons in the first place. He was singing Simmons' praises all offseason. It looks like he was right to do so. Simmons has gotten rid of the holding penalties that plagued him a year ago and has turned into a solid offensive lineman.

The offensive line in general has been much better this year. Their run-blocking has gotten a lot better since the opener against Akron. I think Chip Kelly is more responsible for that than Frye is.