The much-anticipated Ohio State football season is set to begin today as the second-ranked Buckeyes take on in-state opponent Akron at Ohio Stadium. However, the Buckeyes will be without two of their veteran starters in their season opener.

Senior left guard Donovan Jackson and fifth-year senior middle linebacker Cody Simon have been listed as "out" on OSU's availability report. Although the report does not mention the specific reasons for their absence, it is believed that both players are dealing with relatively minor ailments.

With Jackson sidelined, the spotlight turns to the battle for his position. Redshirt freshman Austin Siereveld, who took all the second-team reps at left guard during spring and most of training camp, is expected to get his first career start. Siereveld impressed the coaches during his first-team practice reps and is predicted to hold his own in the position. However, third-year sophomore Carson Hinzman, who started all 12 regular-season games at center last year, brings more experience to the table. It remains uncertain if Hinzman has received many reps at left guard.

At middle linebacker, defensive coordinator Jim Knowles hinted that Sonny Styles and C.J. Hicks would see playing time together. To everyone's surprise, Styles and Hicks will both be starting in the opening game against Akron. This will give a chance for the Buckeyes' coaches to evaluate the young talents of Gabe Powers and Arvell Reese as well. Additionally, true freshman Payton Pierce is expected to see action on special teams and potentially on defense in the second half.

Despite these missing pieces, the Buckeyes remain confident in their overall depth and readiness for the game. The team had a challenging training camp but appears to be in good shape otherwise. Reports suggest that the ailments of Jackson and Simon are nothing serious, and it is expected that they will be back in action soon. However, with Ohio State heavily favored in the game with a 49-point spread, there is no need to risk further injury for the starters.

As the Buckeyes gear up to face Akron, all eyes will be on new starting quarterback Will Howard. Howard, a transfer from Kansas State, secured the starting job after an impressive preseason. Fans will also be eager to see the running back rotation between TreVeyon Henderson and Quinshon Judkins, as well as the performance of wide receivers Emeka Egbuka, Jeremiah Smith, Carnell Tate, and Brandon Inniss.

Kickoff is scheduled for 3:30 p.m. ET, and the game will be aired on CBS. Buckeye fans are eagerly awaiting the start of the season and hoping for a strong debut performance from their team.