Half of Ohio State’s starting defensive line will miss the national championship game against Alabama Monday night. Nose tackle Tommy Togiai and defensive end Tyreke Smith are listed as unavailable in Ohio State’s availability report just released.
Togiai had a season-high four solo tackles in the semifinal win over Clemson while also breaking up a pass and forcing a fumble. Smith has also been a growing force as a pass rusher for the Buckeyes this season.
While Smith will be absent from the Buckeyes’ rotation, sophomore Zach Harrison is returning to play. Junior Tyler Friday is also expected to return to action to bolster the OSU pass rush. Harrison is tied for the team lead (Togiai) with 4.5 tackles for loss. His 2.0 sacks are third on the team behind defensive end Jonathon Cooper and Togiai. Friday, meanwhile, last played against Indiana on November 21.
Also returning to the active roster is running back Master Teague, who has rushed for 449 yards and 5.0 yards per...
