Last year, Seth McLaughlin found himself inside Bryant-Denny Stadium in Alabama. With a cigar in his left hand and standing beside five of his former Alabama teammates, he posed for a photo. This simple snapshot captured the essence of what the third Saturday in October is all about in Tuscaloosa. It's an annual tradition that unfolds in the rivalry between Alabama and Tennessee. The winning team, with cigars gripped between their fingers, celebrates in grand style, filling the air with smoke.

McLaughlin's Alabama Years and Success

During his four seasons with the Crimson Tide, McLaughlin experienced three wins against the Vols. His final victory came last year before he decided to transfer and help lead Alabama to the College Football Playoff. These wins became a part of Alabama's history and added to McLaughlin's reputation as a talented player.McLaughlin's time at Alabama was marked by his ability to perform on the field. He was a key contributor to the team's success and left a lasting impression on his teammates and fans. His experience in the Alabama-Tennessee rivalry gave him a unique perspective that he would carry with him to Ohio State.

The Transfer to Ohio State

This year, McLaughlin found himself at Ohio State. He came to the Buckeyes with 1,834 snaps worth of collegiate experience. Despite the return of Carson Hinzman, last year's starting center, McLaughlin proved to be a strong addition from the transfer portal. He anchored a unit that faced various injuries and still managed to earn the Rimington Award as the nation's top center, despite missing the last two games of the regular season.McLaughlin was expected to be a driving force in front of quarterback Will Howard as Ohio State embarked on the postseason. His presence was felt both on and off the field, as he transitioned into a sort of player-coach role.

His Role at Ohio State Despite Injury

Although McLaughlin is sidelined due to a torn Achilles tendon, his influence remains strong. "Obviously, we miss Seth out on the field, but you can still feel him in the room," said Howard. "He's a coach, man. He's transitioned into kind of a player-coach almost at this point. He's just one of those guys that wants to contribute any way he can. I know he's hurting. He wants to be out there."McLaughlin has remained a respected voice inside the Woody Hayes Athletic Center. He continues to provide valuable intel during meetings and gives Hinzman and other interior offensive linemen a veteran to turn to for advice. He may not be tossing snaps back to Howard directly, but his knowledge and experience are an asset to the team as they prepare for the upcoming matchup with Tennessee.

Preparing for Tennessee with McLaughlin's Insights

Ohio State has a new coach who knows Tennessee well. "He's played against this team many times being at his former institution," said left tackle Donovan Jackson. "He's just given us insight on what we need to do to compete at the highest level against this (defensive) line." McLaughlin's experience and understanding of Tennessee's defense have been crucial in helping the team prepare for the upcoming game.While McLaughlin may not be able to participate physically, his mental presence and insights are invaluable. He is a part of the team's strategy and preparation, and his influence will be felt on the field when Ohio State takes on Tennessee.