Scarlet Sunrise: Ohio State makes top five in 2023 ESPN Quarterback U rankings

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Ohio State makes top five in ESPN Quarterback U rankings

Ohio State has a rich history of elite quarterback play, however, the Buckeyes have consistently produced top-flight NFL prospects at the position since now-head coach Ryan Day joined the program in 2017, originally as Ohio State’s quarterbacks coach and co-offensive coordinator.

In fact, each of the last three Ohio State starting quarterbacks has been a Heisman Trophy finalist and a top-15 pick in the NFL Draft.

But where do the Buckeyes rank all-time in ESPN’s Quarterback U installation of its “Position U” series?

“A quick reminder of our formula: ESPN Stats & Information combed through data on every team dating back to 1998, looking at key markers of greatness at each position. We awarded points for college production (by way of all-conference and All-America honors), NFL draft selections and NFL production (though only through the players’ first five years — Michigan can claim responsibility for Tom Brady’s success for only so long).”

David Hale, ESPN staff writer

ESPN staff writer David Hale determined that Ohio State is fifth nationally at the quarterback position in this metric.

Here’s the complete top 10:

1. Oklahoma
2. USC
3. Oregon
4. Alabama
5. Ohio State
6. Texas
7. Louisville
8. Florida
9. Florida State
10. LSU

Florida is a newcomer to the top 10, thanks to ascent of Anthony Richardson, who was picked No. 4 overall by the Indianapolis Colts in this year’s draft. As Hale pointed out, the Gators have even more room to grow, in part because alum Kyle Trask could wind up starting games for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers this season.

Ohio State was the most notable riser in the rankings, according to Hale. The Buckeyes climbed four spots in the QBU rankings this time around compared to last year when they were ninth.

The only thing holding Ohio State back is its quarterbacks’ limited success at the next level. C.J. Stroud and Justin Fields have a good chance of rewriting that narrative — maybe even this year.

Kyle McCord, Devin Brown emerging as vocal leaders in absence of C.J. Stroud

C.J. Stroud was a two-time Heisman Trophy finalist. He’s the highest-drafted quarterback in Buckeyes history. Ohio State was his team the last two years.

But, now, the window is open for a new quarterback voice in the program.

Junior Kyle McCord and redshirt freshman Devin Brown know that. They’re competing for the starting job under center, and a central part of that position battle is about emerging as a vocal leader.

McCord and Brown have different temperaments, however, they are both stepping up in front of their teammates in hopes of leading Ohio State.

For the full story on their growth in that department, go here.

RELATED

• Kyle McCord understands standards, stakes for Buckeyes starting quarterback competition

Quick hitters from Ryan Day presser ahead of Ohio State training camp

Ohio State head coach Ryan Day met with the media Wednesday in the Woody Hayes Athletic Center. He spoke at length about the Buckeyes’ quarterback competition, his own experience in one and what he’s learned about managing the position over the years.

Day reflected on the analytical component of quarterback evaluation, in addition to the “eyeball test.” He also discussed how he’s learned from his past mistakes in this process, including from the 2021 season when Oregon beat the Buckeyes in Columbus and Stroud, according to Day, was asked to do too much.

Day also talked about how there won’t be necessarily a “clean break” between him and first-time offensive coordinator Brian Hartline, as far as play-calling duties as concerned.

To learn more, head on over here.

Counting down

Buckeyes vs. Indiana: 30 days
Buckeyes vs. Michigan: 115 days

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