COLUMBUS, Ohio -- As Ohio State once again prepares for a new season, it also embarks on a new journey of performing its tradition of welcoming in its newest players.

Regardless of if you’re a transfer or an incoming freshman, all new players receive a black stripe on their helmets to start their OSU careers. Eventually, you earn enough respect from your coaches and teammates to have that stripe removed, making you an “official Buckeye.” The process of having that black stripe removed can often be a way to gauge where a player is in his career, along with how close they are to making an impact on game day.

This offseason two returning players became the first to lose their black stripes in offensive linemen George Fitzpatrick and Tegra Tshabola. Below is the chronological tracker of when players officially became Buckeyes in 2023:

March 23: George Fitzpatrick, OT, redshirt freshman

March 23: Tegra Tshabola, OT, redshirt freshman

With the arrival of DraftKings Ohio Sportsbook, in-state bettors are now able to bet. Ohioans now can also take advantage of launch offers at BetMGM Ohio and FanDuel Ohio.

If you or a loved one has questions and needs to talk to a professional about gambling, call the Ohio Problem Gambling Helpline at 1-800-589-9966 or the National Council on Program Gambling Helpline (NCPG) at 1-800-522-4700 or visit 1800gambler.net for more information. 21+ and present in Ohio. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-Gambler.