Ohio State Center Seth McLaughlin Becomes Latest Buckeye To Lose Black Stripe

Ohio State center Seth McLaughlin has shed his black stripe, with the former Alabama transfer becoming an “official” member of the team following Saturday’s Student Appreciation Day practice.

McLaughlin transferred to Columbus this offseason and is locked in a battle with Carson Hinzman – both of whom have taken first-team reps this spring – to become the team’s starting center. McLaughlin started the last three seasons at center for the Crimson Tide, though his tenure ended in disappointing fashion as he was criticized for poor snaps in Alabama’s loss to Michigan in the College Football Playoff.

“Seth’s snaps have been great,” Ohio State head coach Ryan Day said earlier this spring. “I know that was a little bit of a concern. I think that had a lot to do with maybe the cadence or whatever. But so far, he’s been doing great.”

McLaughlin is the sixth Buckeye to lose their black stripe this spring, joining wide receiver Jeremiah Smith, wide receiver Brennan Schramm, safety Caleb Downs, running back Quinshon Judkins and quarterback Will Howard, with Howard also losing his on Saturday.