Normally, Ohio State adding a transfer from Rice wouldn’t excite many people.
After all, the Owls haven’t had a winning season since 2014. But the addition of Ethan Onianwa was a big one for the Buckeyes. The left tackle was projected as a possible second-round NFL draft pick if he’d decided to turn pro. ESPN analyst Tom Luginbill declared him “the best offensive lineman in the portal and it’s not even close. Can’t believe he didn’t declare.”
Onianwa believed he had more room to grow at the college level. Actually, he had room to shrink. The 6-foot-6 Onianwa (pronounced Oh-nee-AHN-wa) has dropped 30 pounds since his arrival in Columbus in December and now weighs 335.
“It hasn’t been that hard,” Onianwa said, “because the strength staff is amazing and the nutrition staff is amazing as well. They put together a really good plan for me.”
Onianwa played two years at right tackle for Rice. Last year, he switched to left tackle. In 341 passing snaps, he allowed only one sack and two pressures.
Luginbill told The Dispatch that Onianwa’s agility, feet, and ability to bend make him special.
“He’s a mauler in a phone booth,” Luginbill said. “So athletic.”
Offensive line coach Tyler Bowen said it’s too early to name any starters on the offensive line, but Onianwa at left tackle seems like a safe bet.
“He’s done a great job,” Bowen said. “Very coachable, working his tail off. I’ve been impressed with Ethan. Obviously, he (has got impressive) size and length, but it’s his smarts and his work ethic and the way he approaches it every day that’s been the most impressive to me.”
Onianwa practiced with the Buckeyes during its…
Source link : https://www.dispatch.com/story/sports/college/football/2025/04/03/rice-transfer-onianwa-has-impressed-at-left-tackle-for-ohio-state/82786309007/
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Publish date : 2025-04-03 20:25:00
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