COLUMBUS, Ohio -- Seth McLaughlin's journey through college football hasn't been easy, but it led to a prestigious moment.

McLaughlin, who started 10 games for Ohio State this season, was awarded the Rimington Trophy on Thursday.

The honor is presented annually to the nation's best center.

"I am incredibly honored to receive this award," McLaughlin wrote on X (formerly Twitter). "Thank you Buckeye Nation for welcoming me in and giving me the opportunity to be the player that I knew I was capable of being!"

McLaughlin is the fourth OSU player to win the award, joining LeCharles Bentley (2001), Pat Elflein (16) and Billy Price (17).

McLaughlin's collegiate career started at Alabama where he spent four seasons under coach Nick Saban. With the Crimson Tide, he played in 35 games and helped lead the team to three College Football Playoff appearances.

However, his time at Alabama ended on a shaky note -- capped by a low snap on the final play of a CFP loss vs. Michigan in January.

McLaughlin entered the transfer portal afterward and joined Ohio State ahead of the 2024 season.

With the Buckeyes, he played well beyond the talent level of a former three-star prospect.

McLaughlin allowed no sacks and only four total pressures on 207 pass-blocking snaps.

However, he won't take the field for Ohio State when it opens postseason play against Tennessee on Dec. 21.

McLaughlin's season was cut short when he suffered a season-ending injury prior to Ohio State's game against Indiana on Nov. 23.

Still, his play prior to injury was worthy of a national award.