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COLUMBUS, Ohio – Thayer Munford’s decision to return for Ohio State football has repercussions throughout Buckeyes’ offense.
To begin with, look at the very structure of the offensive line. The Buckeyes could have replaced Munford with Paris Johnson Jr. for 2021. He was drafted as OSU left tackle of the future and fought for a starting position in right tackle as a true rookie ahead of the 2020 season.
Johnson, however, also proved his versatility when stepping in to play guard in the college football playoff semifinal victory over Clemson. Ohio State center and captain Josh Myers went so far as to predict Johnson would end up winning the Outland Trophy as the country’s best offensive or defensive lineman.
Right tackle Nicholas Petit-Frere, who like Munford has ranked among the best in his post at national level by Pro Football Focus, has yet to announce if he will return for his senior season.
Assuming he returns, Johnson will likely become an immediate starter on the inside. All-America goalie Wyatt Davis is expected to follow center Josh Myers’ decision on Friday and declare himself for the NFL Draft. If Harry Miller moves to the center as planned, Johnson and Matthew Jones project themselves as starting guards.
Beyond that logistics, Munford adds stability and skill to an offense that will undergo a transition to other key positions.
• Unexpected returns could help OSU – but not save it – in 2021: Buckeye Take
For those starting at the Buckeyes quarterback this fall – whether freshman CJ Stroud or Jack Miller or Kyle McCord, their next comeback to college will be their first. Retaining a veteran to protect the blind side of the first-year starter should boost the confidence of the entire offense.
Munford also led some of the Buckeye running backs’ biggest gains on the left side in 2020. True freshmen TreVeyon Henderson and Evan Pryor, along with Master Teague, can follow this blockage to help OSU maintain its balance in 2021.
Munford said his return was motivated by two goals – completing his degree and taking another championship shot. The move allows the Buckeyes to extend their control over the Big Ten and make a third straight playoff innings.
Get the Ohio State Sugar Bowl Champions and CFP Gear: Check out shirts, hats and more merchandise commemorating the Ohio State Sugar Bowl victory over Clemson, as well as gear on the Buckeyes advancing to the College Football Playoff National Championship game.
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