Phillip Daniels is in the thick of Ohio State’s right tackle competition, and his approach is simple: he plans to “keep killing” in practice. The Buckeyes’ offensive line is one of the most scrutinized units on the team, and with good reason. Protecting the quarterback and establishing the run game are critical to Ohio State’s success, and the right tackle position remains a key battleground as the season approaches. Daniels, a redshirt freshman, is making a strong case for himself, demonstrating the kind of work ethic and physicality that could earn him a starting role.
The competition at right tackle is fierce, with several talented players vying for the spot. Josh Fryar, who started at left tackle last season, has been experimenting at right tackle as well, adding another layer of intrigue to the position battle. Tegra Tshabola, another contender, brings size and power to the mix. But Daniels isn’t backing down. His mindset is clear—he’s focused on outworking everyone else. “I’m just going to keep killing in practice,” he said. “Every rep, every drill, I’m going to give everything I have. That’s how you earn your spot.”
Daniels’ journey to this point hasn’t been easy. A four-star recruit out of Fairburn, Georgia, he was highly touted but still had to adjust to the speed and physicality of college football. Redshirting last season allowed him to develop his strength and technique, and now he’s reaping the benefits. Offensive line coach Justin Frye has praised Daniels’ growth, noting his improved footwork and understanding of the offense. “Phillip has taken big steps,” Frye said. “He’s always had the tools, but now he’s putting it all together.”
One of the biggest challenges for any young offensive lineman is consistency. The difference between a good play and a bad one can come down to minor details—hand placement, leverage, timing. Daniels has been working tirelessly to refine these aspects of his game. Film study has become a crucial part of his routine, allowing him to identify mistakes and correct them before they become habits. “You can’t just rely on physical ability at this level,” he said. “You have to be sharp mentally, too.”
The right tackle position is particularly demanding in Ohio State’s offense. With a quarterback like Will Howard (or Devin Brown, depending on how the competition shakes out), the tackle must be able to handle both power rushers and speedy edge defenders. The Buckeyes also love to run the ball, meaning the right tackle has to be a mauler in the ground game. Daniels’ combination of agility and strength makes him an intriguing option. At 6’5” and 315 pounds, he has the frame to hold up against Big Ten defensive ends, and his athleticism allows him to reach the second level in the run game.
Teammates have taken notice of Daniels’ progress. Donovan Jackson, Ohio State’s standout left guard, has been impressed with his work ethic. “Phillip doesn’t take plays off,” Jackson said. “He’s always pushing himself, always trying to get better. That’s the kind of guy you want next to you in the trenches.” That kind of respect from a veteran leader speaks volumes about Daniels’ potential.
Of course, the competition isn’t over yet. Fall camp will be the ultimate proving ground, and the coaching staff will be looking for the player who shows the most consistency and reliability. Head coach Ryan Day has emphasized that the best five linemen will start, regardless of experience. “We’re going to play the guys who give us the best chance to win,” Day said. “If that’s a freshman, so be it.”
For Daniels, the opportunity is there. If he continues to “keep killing” in practice—dominating his one-on-ones, absorbing the playbook, and proving he can handle the pressure—he could very well find himself as Ohio State’s starting right tackle when the season opens. That would be a massive leap for a redshirt freshman, but Daniels isn’t shying away from the challenge.
The Buckeyes’ offensive line has a legacy of producing NFL talent, and Daniels is eager to add his name to that list. Players like Taylor Decker, Wyatt Davis, and Nicholas Petit-Frere have set the standard, and now it’s up to the next generation to uphold it. Daniels understands the responsibility that comes with wearing the scarlet and gray. “This is Ohio State,” he said. “Nothing is given here. You have to earn everything.”
As the season draws closer, all eyes will be on the right tackle battle. Whether Daniels wins the job or not, his attitude and work ethic suggest he’ll be a key contributor sooner rather than later. The Buckeyes need depth on the offensive line, and Daniels is proving he can be trusted when called upon.
In the end, football is about competition, and Phillip Daniels is embracing it. His mantra—“keep killing”—isn’t just about beating the guy across from him in practice. It’s about proving to himself and his coaches that he belongs. If he keeps that mindset, Ohio State’s offensive line could be in very good hands for years to come.
