Three Ohio State football players with the most to lose from a poor Spring Game

3. Carson Hinzman

As a freshman, Carson Hinzman was thrust into the starting lineup at center. He didn't have a great year but also wasn't the worst offensive lineman on the team. I contest that both tackles performed worse than Hinzman did. He just didn't have the consistency that Ryan Day was looking for.

Hinzman is now competing for his job with Alabama transfer Seth McLaughlin. Hinzman really needs to show that he has gotten better in the offseason. McLaughlin comes in with 24 games of starting experience under his belt for a team that made the CFP a year ago.

A bad showing on Saturday from Hinzman could seal up the job in McLaughlin's favor. Hinzman is a natural guard, but those positions look to be filled also. Donovan Jackson will start at left guard again and Luke Montgomery seems to be the favorite to win the right guard spot.

Hinzman had some wobbly snaps at times a year ago. McLaughlin did too, most notably in the Rose Bowl against TTUN. Hinzman needs to show that he has gotten rid of those in the offseason. His blocking needs to improve as well because this team is going to be running the ball a lot more.

This Ohio State football team wants to change its identity. They want to be known as a tough team. That starts with strong play up front. Hinzman needs to show that as the starting center, he can set the tone on the offensive line for that toughness.