ReportWire

Tag: ohio state

  • UNC basketball holds off Ohio State. What we learned in the Tar Heels’ narrow win

    Atlanta

    That’s probably not what Hubert Davis had drawn up, right?

    But, luckily for the Tar Heels, when Seth Trimble stumbled to the floor, Henri Veesaar was there to scoop the ball up and flush it home for a victory-sealing dunk. On the other end, Ohio State’s John Mobley Jr. missed a 3-pointer, the Buckeyes were blocked on the putback attempt and the No. 12 Tar Heels escaped with a 71-70 win over Ohio State (8-3) in the 12th annual CBS Sports Classic.

    UNC’s Henri Veesaar (13) dunks the go-ahead basket in the final seconds against John Mobley Jr. (0) and Christoph Tilly (13) of Ohio State during their game at State Farm Arena on Dec. 20, 2025 in Atlanta, Georgia.
    UNC’s Henri Veesaar (13) dunks the go-ahead basket in the final seconds against John Mobley Jr. (0) and Christoph Tilly (13) of Ohio State during their game at State Farm Arena on Dec. 20, 2025 in Atlanta, Georgia. Kevin C. Cox Getty Images

    Caleb Wilson and Veesaar combined for 37 points and 25 rebounds. Wilson didn’t score until three and a half minutes remained in the first half, but pulled down a career-best 15 rebounds in his Atlanta homecoming.

    The Tar Heels managed for nine games as Trimble recovered from a left forearm injury, but Saturday’s win over Ohio State at State Farm Arena showed, once again, how crucial the senior is to this team. Trimble, renowned as the Tar Heels’ best perimeter defender, took the tough assignment on Ohio State’s Bruce Thornton and made him fight for all 16 points. Thornton shot 7-of-16 from the field and also finished 0-for-4 from deep.

    “There’s really only one guy on our team that had any chance of getting a stop on Bruce Thornton,” Davis said. “And that was Seth.”

    Seth Trimble (7) of the North Carolina Tar Heels reacts after their 71-70 win over the Ohio State Buckeyes at State Farm Arena on December 20, 2025 in Atlanta, Georgia.
    Seth Trimble (7) of the North Carolina Tar Heels reacts after their 71-70 win over the Ohio State Buckeyes at State Farm Arena on December 20, 2025 in Atlanta, Georgia. Kevin C. Cox Getty Images

    Trimble, meanwhile, led the Tar Heels in 3-pointers made — going 3-for-5 from deep — as part of a 17-point performance.

    The game wasn’t without its warts, though. Davis once again hounded his team during the under-eight timeout after a particularly disjointed offensive stretch that saw UNC go scoreless for over three minutes. The Tar Heels weren’t spectacular on the defensive glass and nearly gave up the game after Mobley Jr. drained a late 3-pointer and drew a foul from Wilson.

    UNC has learned a lot over the stretch it played with Trimble unavailable. For one, its frontcourt duo is elite — among the best in the nation. The backcourt still has some question marks, but plenty of Tar Heels off the bench have stepped up and showed promise.

    This contest, too, provides lots of lessons. Here’s what we learned from this nail-biter in Atlanta:

    Another slow start, inconsistent stretches

    The timing of this game in the middle of a busy portion of the College Football Playoff calendar may have been apt. After six minutes of play in Atlanta, the score remained at a dismal 7-to-7.

    UNC has fallen into a trend yet again this season of slow starts. At least, that’s how some might describe it. Not Davis. After North Carolina’s win over ETSU, he painted the issue as more nuanced, coming down to inconsistency.

    “I wouldn’t necessarily say that we’ve consistently gotten off to slow starts,” Davis said on Tuesday. “I would say that, at times, we haven’t been consistent at the beginning. We’ve gotten off to a fast start, then we had a four [to] six minute lull on both ends of the floor where we allow a team to come back.”

    That’s exactly what happened Saturday against Ohio State. What started as three or so minutes of stagnant offense for the Tar Heels led to the Buckeyes clawing back from an 11-point deficit to two points and then, after Wilson fouled Mobley Jr. on the 3-pointer, Ohio State took its first lead since the opening minutes.

    And UNC nearly gave the game away, if not for Veesaar’s quick hands.

    “The best part of it is we have so much to improve,” Veesaar said after the win, later adding, “every game I feel like we can go back and watch film and there’s like, 16, 18 or 20 points that we could easily take away [by] not making our mistakes.”

    Caleb Wilson (8) of the North Carolina Tar Heels dunks against Christoph Tilly (13) of the Ohio State Buckeyes during the second half.
    Caleb Wilson (8) of the North Carolina Tar Heels dunks against Christoph Tilly (13) of the Ohio State Buckeyes during the second half. Kevin C. Cox Getty Images

    Trimble returns, boosts Tar Heels in transition

    Davis has said there’s nobody in the country he’d rather have handle the ball in transition than Trimble.

    Saturday showed why.

    After recording four fast break points over UNC’s last two games, the Tar Heels earned 10 transition points on Saturday. A large part of that, no surprise, was Trimble’s defensive prowess and ability to attack downhill.

    “Having that ability to strike and be able to finish and transition like him is real,” Davis said last week. “He’s another playmaker. So he can handle the ball, he can distribute, he can score. And then, defensively, you can make the argument he’s the best on-ball defender, perimeter defender in the country.”

    Seth Trimble (7) of the North Carolina Tar Heels reacts after their 71-70 win over the Ohio State Buckeyes at State Farm Arena on December 20, 2025 in Atlanta, Georgia.
    Seth Trimble (7) of the North Carolina Tar Heels reacts after their 71-70 win over the Ohio State Buckeyes at State Farm Arena on December 20, 2025 in Atlanta, Georgia. Kevin C. Cox Getty Images

    Six of UNC’s fast break points came courtesy of Trimble — and all of them came in the first half.

    Defensive rebounding woes arise again

    North Carolina conceded season-worst offensive rebounding totals against Georgetown and USC Upstate. In their win over ETSU, it appeared the Tar Heels had put those issues behind them.

    But, with seven minutes left in the first half, it was already clear UNC was having some issues on the defensive boards. At that point, the Tar Heels had relinquished seven offensive rebounds.

    The good news for UNC? The 12 offensive boards for the Buckeyes on Saturday translated to just seven second-chance points. That’s a testament to the Tar Heels’ length and ability to contest. The bad news? That conversion rate will likely be a lot higher as North Carolina gets into tougher competition later in the season.

    This story was originally published December 20, 2025 at 6:23 PM.

    Shelby Swanson

    Source link

  • Michigan Reveals Epic Uniform Combo for Matchup vs. Ohio State

    If you’re superstitious, or even just a little stitious, this news should give you a grin: Michigan is breaking out the All-Blue uniform combo for The Game on Saturday against No. 1 Ohio State.

    That’s right. The Wolverines are dusting off their signature navy-on-navy look inside the Big House for one of the biggest matchups of the season. And history says that’s a very good thing.

    Michigan’s Lucky Look

    Since the Wolverines debuted the Big Game Blues back in 2021 against Washington, they’ve been almost unbeatable in them, posting an estimated 14–2 record. And more importantly? They’re 2–0 against Ohio State in this exact uniform combo.

    Coincidence? Maybe.
    Comforting? Absolutely.
    Enough to make Buckeye fans nervous? Probably.

    The combination has become synonymous with Michigan’s modern rivalry resurgence. Every time the Blues hit the field, something feels just a little different, a little heavier, a little more “OK, it’s time.”

    The Stakes Couldn’t Be Higher

    Michigan enters Saturday ranked No. 15, while Ohio State rolls in as the nation’s No. 1 team. If the Wolverines win, they will probably earn a berth in the College Football Playoff. If they lose, they will certainly be left out.

    Add in the location, a packed Big House, the rivalry energy, and the uniform nostalgia, and this one is shaping up to be a classic.

    Kickoff is scheduled for 12:14 p.m., just enough time for fans to settle in, scream themselves hoarse, and hope the Big Game Blues work their magic one more time.

    Michigan believes in the look.
    The fans believe in the look.
    Now we’ll find out if the Buckeyes fear it.

    Don Drysdale

    Source link

  • Josh Pate delivers surprising pick ahead of Ohio State‑Michigan clash

    Ohio State enters “The Game” unbeaten and ranked No. 1 in the nation, with an 11-0 overall ledger and an 8-0 Big Ten mark.

    The Buckeyes lead the nation in scoring defense (allowing just 7.6 points per game) and score at a high clip (37.9 points per game, 11th in the country).

    In Ryan Day’s eighth season, the Buckeyes’ balance and depth have been consistent themes all year, and public models generally peg them as the stronger team on paper.

    Yet, college football analyst Josh Pate delivered a contrarian pick on Tuesday, boldly predicting that Michigan will win and cover, despite models and books heavily favoring the Buckeyes.

    “I think Ohio State’s the better team,” Pate said. “The model thinks Ohio State wins and wins comfortably. Everything about my breakdown of the game leans me towards Ohio State. I couldn’t care less until further notice. Michigan will win this game. Michigan covers. Michigan money line.”

    Loading twitter content…

    Read More: Paul Finebaum Warns Lane Kiffin Is About to Make Wrong Career Move

    Michigan is 9-2 (7-1 Big Ten) and ranked No. 15 in the AP Top 25, just on the edge of the College Football Playoff.

    After finishing 8-5 a year ago, this season reflects steady progress under third-year head coach Sherrone Moore.

    Freshman QB Bryce Underwood has thrown for 2,166 passing yards, nine touchdowns, and five picks, along with 322 rushing yards and five rushing scores, while RBs Jordan Marshall and Justice Haynes each have over 850 rushing yards and 10 rushing TDs.

    Read More: Tulane, Jon Sumrall Dealt Major Recruiting Blow Amid Florida Rumors

    Early market consensus opened Ohio State as a near two‑touchdown favorite; FanDuel showed Ohio State around -10.5 on Tuesday, while other books listed similar spreads and moneyline gaps.

    As a result, almost everybody has leaned in favor of the Buckeyes to win, and many have chosen them to cover as well.

    Pate acknowledged his model favors Ohio State but said he’s taking Michigan because of the rivalry’s history of “void of reason” outcomes and his own track record of being burned by Michigan surprises.

    Source link

  • Ohio State’s Ryan Day’s Michigan message sparks heated reaction

    The Ohio State Buckeyes and head coach Ryan Day took care of business in their second to last game of the regular season against the Rutgers Scarlet Knights. When all was said and done, Ohio State won the game by a final score of 42-9 to improve to 11-0 on the season.

    Even without star wide receivers Jeremiah Smith and Carnell Tate, the Buckeyes’ offense looked lethal. Once again, the defense was dominant under first-year defensive coordinator Matt Patricia.

    Next up for Ohio State will be the matchup that all fans have been waiting for all season long. The Buckeyes will face off against the arch-rival Michigan Wolverines next weekend.

    Read more: Todd McShay Reveals Surprising Heisman Pick Without Hesitation

    Following the win over Rutgers, Day spoke out with a very short and sweet message about next week’s game.

    As shared by FOX College Football on X, Day is ready to play for hardware against Michigan.

    “We’re playing for hardware now,” Day said.

    Loading twitter content…

    After playing the Wolverines, Ohio State will turn its attention to the postseason. Most anticipate to see the Buckeyes facing off against the Indiana Hoosiers in the Big Ten Championship Game in Indianapolis.

    Then, comes the College Football Playoff.

    Of course, Ohio State needs to get its losing streak against Michigan out of the way. The Wolverines have won each of the last four contests between the two schools. Last season, the Buckeyes suffered a shocking loss to Michigan as the No. 2 seed in the nation in Columbus, while the Wolverines were unranked.

    Despite losing to Michigan last season, Ohio State was able to pull together and go on to win the national championship. Day is looking to replicate the playoff success with a second straight title, but adding a win over the Wolverines is extremely important.

    Read more: Alabama, Kalen DeBoer Receive Brutal College Football Playoff Outlook

    All of that being said, all eyes will be on the Buckeyes and Michigan throughout the upcoming week. The two teams will kick off the latest installment of their bitter rivalry at 12:00 p.m. ET next Saturday.

    For Day and Ohio State, this game is what they have been working towards all season long. Having a chance to get revenge for the last four years of disappointment is now waiting right at their doorstep.

    For more on the Ohio State Buckeyes and college football news, head to Newsweek Sports.

    Source link

  • Ohio State gets brutal injury news on Jeremiah Smith, Carnell Tate

    Just last weekend the Ohio State Buckeyes took down the UCLA Bruins, who were without quarterback Nico Iamaleava, in a 48-10 rout.

    While the Buckeyes managed to pick up their 10th win, the program received some concerning news when star wide receiver Jeremiah Smith was shut down in the second quarter. After he was spotted moving gingerly on the sideline, Ohio State opted to remove him from the game.

    The Buckeyes had already been without fellow star wideout Carnell Tate, who was dealing with an unspecified injury. In shutting down Smith, head coach Ryan Day said, “We want to make sure that we’re being really smart with him as we know what’s coming down the road.”

    More NFL: Al Michaels Under Fire for ‘Rough’ Bills-Texans Game

    More Football: Bills QB Josh Allen Places Blame After ‘Frustrating’ Loss to Texans

    Day revealed he doesn’t have any long-term concerns for his wide receivers, but on Saturday, Nov. 22, college football insider Pete Thamel revealed neither would be seeing the field against Rutgers.

    “Ohio State star wide receivers Carnell Tate and Jeremiah Smith are not expected to play against Rutgers today. Both are considered day-to-day as they deal with lower body injuries,” Thamel reported.

    Loading twitter content…

    Ohio State likely won’t need Smith and Tate to defeat the Scarlet Knights, but the two star wide receiver make up a massive amount of the team’s offense. Combined the wide receivers account for nearly 58% of the team’s yards through the air and 65% of the team’s receiving touchdowns.

    Ohio State and Rutgers kick off at 12 p.m. ET on Fox.

    More Football: National Champion Coach Could Join Lane Kiffin at LSU

    Source link

  • Ohio State Unveils Limited Edition Jeremiah Smith Bobblehead

    Source: Ohio State / Buckeyes

    Ohio State fans can celebrate the Buckeyes’ national championship with a new collectible. The National Bobblehead Hall of Fame released a limited-edition Jeremiah Smith bobblehead honoring the wide receiver’s breakout year.

    Each bobblehead costs $40 plus an $8 flat-rate shipping fee. The figures are individually numbered to just 2,025 pieces. The design shows Smith mid-air, leaping for a catch in his scarlet No. 4 jersey. The pose highlights his freshman season, when he shattered several school records.

    If you’d like to purchase one, click here.

    At 6 feet 3 inches and 223 pounds, the Miami Gardens native dominated in 2024. He recorded 76 receptions, 1,315 yards, and 15 touchdowns. Smith surpassed Cris Carter’s freshman marks and helped Ohio State win its ninth national title. The Buckeyes outscored postseason opponents by a combined 145-75.

    “This bobblehead will be a must-have for Buckeye fans,” said Phil Sklar, co-founder and CEO of the Hall of Fame. “This season was one of the most memorable in program history.”

    The release follows other popular Buckeye bobbleheads, including Brutus Buckeye and Jack Sawyer editions. The collection ships immediately and is available through the National Bobblehead Hall of Fame’s online store.

    Ohio State Buckeyes 2025 Schedule

    Former Ohio State President Gordon Gee Returns as Advisor

    All Ohio State Buckeyes Picked in the 2025 NFL Draft

    Matty Willz

    Source link

  • Ohio State Still No. 1 as Miami Surges to No. 2 in AP Top 25

    Source: Icon Sportswire / Getty

    Miami (FL) fired up the AP Top 25 poll this week, vaulting past LSU and Penn State into the No. 2 spot behind Ohio State. The Hurricanes crushed Florida 26-7, showing balance on offense and stifling defensively — enough to earn their highest ranking since 2017.

    Ohio State kept its No. 1 reign, despite being idle, collecting 52 of 66 first-place votes.

    Oklahoma also made a splash, rejoining the top 10 at No. 7 after a win over ranked Auburn. It’s their first time back in the elite since 2023. Meanwhile, big jumps came from Indiana and Texas Tech following blowout wins over Top 25 opponents. On the flip side, Illinois dropped hard after a lopsided loss, while some teams held steady despite imperfect performances.

    Polls change faster than charity lines at a fast-food joint, but this week gave us some clear winners. Miami earned respect. Oklahoma reminded everyone it still matters. And Ohio State? It proved being a roadblock at No. 1 is harder than it looks. Stay tuned — with this many ranked teams shifting, next week might bring even more chaos.

    Holy Szmyt! Browns Stun Packers with Late Win at Huntington Bank Field

    Ohio State Buckeyes 2025 Schedule

    Cleveland Browns 2025 NFL Schedule

     

    Matty Willz

    Source link

  • Lee Corso’s final ‘College GameDay’ at Ohio State holds special significance

    It is rare for a sports broadcasting figure to retire on his own terms or to be able to accept the tributes or adulation of colleagues and fans.Lee Corso got to experience that on Saturday.Corso made his final appearance as part of ESPN’s “College GameDay” crew before No. 3 and reigning national champion Ohio State hosts top-ranked Texas.Video above: Lee Corso dons Ohio State headgearSince announcing his retirement earlier this year, Corso has received his share of acclaim and send-offs. He was honored at the ESPY Awards in July and received a standing ovation before boarding his flight in Orlando, Florida, on Thursday.”It’s a gamut of different emotions. I’m trying to stay in the celebratory lane this weekend,” said GameDay analyst Kirk Herbstreit, who has sat next to Corso since 1996. “We don’t want to be emotional or sad when it’s his last show. We can be sad next week. But this weekend, we need to be celebrating him. Everything he’s meant to us and to the sport.”Corso, who turned 90 on Aug. 7, has been a part of “GameDay” since its start in 1987 and has made pregame shows entertaining under a simple philosophy: “Football is just the vehicle. It’s entertainment, sweetheart.””Almost everyone, no matter what they accomplish in our industry, sort of gets dragged out boots first. They don’t really get a chance to say farewell,” GameDay host Rece Davis said on Friday after a production meeting. “I think it’s a real blessing that we’re able to give Lee his flowers on a day when he’s feeling great, doing great, and excited for a game.”GameDay’s 26th appearance in Columbus also marks a full-circle moment for Corso. It was outside Ohio Stadium on Oct. 5, 1996, where Corso’s popular headgear prediction segment began. Video below: Lee Corso visits Nebraska“This is one of the easiest picks I’ve ever made. Texas is loaded. Texas is number one. They have a Manning at quarterback. Poor, Ohio State. They ain’t got a chance. Give me my first love!” Corso said before putting on Brutus’ head for the 46th time.It ended up being prophetic as the Buckeyes defeated the Longhorns 14-7.Corso made the prediction on the 50-yard line at Ohio Stadium in front of 107,524 fans 16 minutes before kickoff, quite a change from the first time in 1996 when it was done in the parking lot outside the Horseshoe.The Ohio State band — which spelled out Corso during its pregame routine — was on the field and behind Corso as he made his pick.Corso donned Brutus Buckeye’s head before Ohio State faced Penn State, and the rest is history.Corso has worn 69 different schools’ mascot headgear and has dressed up as Notre Dame’s Fighting Irish leprechaun, the Stanford tree, and historic figures James Madison and Benjamin Franklin. However, Brutus remains Corso’s first love, wearing it 45 times.”When we looked at the schedule, the obvious place was to try to go to Tallahassee, where he played (at Florida State), but this game is so big. The fact that it’s a noon game. It became a no-brainer to have it here,” Herbstreit said. “It is very kind of storybook. The fact that we started with this and and end it here in Columbus.”Corso has a 66.5% winning rate on his headgear predictions (286-144), which is much better than his 73-85-6 mark in 15 years as a coach at Louisville, Indiana, and Northern Illinois.”Now that his career, obviously coaching but now as a broadcaster, is ending, you look back on the impact that you made. And he certainly made a major impact on a lot of people,” Ohio State coach Ryan Day said. “For him to be here for his last mascot game in his last year means a lot to all of us.”When GameDay started, Corso was the analytical one known for hot takes, while the late Beano Cook was the funny one who made game predictions a production.The show took place at ESPN’s studios in Bristol, Connecticut, until it went on the road for the first time in 1993, before Notre Dame hosted Florida State in a No. 1 vs. No. 2 matchup. The show has been on the road regularly since 1995.Chris Fowler was the host from 1990 through 2014 before Davis took over. Besides Herbstreit, Desmond Howard has been with the show since 2006, Pat McAfee joined in 2022, and Nick Saban last year after retiring from Alabama.Fowler, who will call Saturday night’s game between No. 9 LSU and fourth-ranked Clemson, will also be a part of the GameDay crew on Saturday.Texas coach Steve Sarkisian said the beauty of Corso and “College GameDay” is that they allow fans to experience the flavor of being at a game at Texas or Alabama on television.”Coach Corso was able to bring the aspect of a coach and a very analytical approach to the games being played, but then the entertainment and doing the headgear at the end of every show,” Sarkesian said. “I know that was something we all used to look forward to. What was he going to do? Like that was going to determine who would win the game or not, but that was the beauty of the show, getting people excited about every Saturday for college football.”

    COLUMBUS, Ohio —

    It is rare for a sports broadcasting figure to retire on his own terms or to be able to accept the tributes or adulation of colleagues and fans.

    Lee Corso got to experience that on Saturday.

    Corso made his final appearance as part of ESPN’s “College GameDay” crew before No. 3 and reigning national champion Ohio State hosts top-ranked Texas.

    Video above: Lee Corso dons Ohio State headgear

    Since announcing his retirement earlier this year, Corso has received his share of acclaim and send-offs. He was honored at the ESPY Awards in July and received a standing ovation before boarding his flight in Orlando, Florida, on Thursday.

    “It’s a gamut of different emotions. I’m trying to stay in the celebratory lane this weekend,” said GameDay analyst Kirk Herbstreit, who has sat next to Corso since 1996. “We don’t want to be emotional or sad when it’s his last show. We can be sad next week. But this weekend, we need to be celebrating him. Everything he’s meant to us and to the sport.”

    Corso, who turned 90 on Aug. 7, has been a part of “GameDay” since its start in 1987 and has made pregame shows entertaining under a simple philosophy: “Football is just the vehicle. It’s entertainment, sweetheart.”

    “Almost everyone, no matter what they accomplish in our industry, sort of gets dragged out boots first. They don’t really get a chance to say farewell,” GameDay host Rece Davis said on Friday after a production meeting. “I think it’s a real blessing that we’re able to give Lee his flowers on a day when he’s feeling great, doing great, and excited for a game.”

    GameDay’s 26th appearance in Columbus also marks a full-circle moment for Corso. It was outside Ohio Stadium on Oct. 5, 1996, where Corso’s popular headgear prediction segment began.

    Video below: Lee Corso visits Nebraska

    “This is one of the easiest picks I’ve ever made. Texas is loaded. Texas is number one. They have a Manning at quarterback. Poor, Ohio State. They ain’t got a chance. Give me my first love!” Corso said before putting on Brutus’ head for the 46th time.

    It ended up being prophetic as the Buckeyes defeated the Longhorns 14-7.

    Corso made the prediction on the 50-yard line at Ohio Stadium in front of 107,524 fans 16 minutes before kickoff, quite a change from the first time in 1996 when it was done in the parking lot outside the Horseshoe.

    The Ohio State band — which spelled out Corso during its pregame routine — was on the field and behind Corso as he made his pick.

    Corso donned Brutus Buckeye’s head before Ohio State faced Penn State, and the rest is history.

    Corso has worn 69 different schools’ mascot headgear and has dressed up as Notre Dame’s Fighting Irish leprechaun, the Stanford tree, and historic figures James Madison and Benjamin Franklin. However, Brutus remains Corso’s first love, wearing it 45 times.

    “When we looked at the schedule, the obvious place was to try to go to Tallahassee, where he played (at Florida State), but this game is so big. The fact that it’s a noon game. It became a no-brainer to have it here,” Herbstreit said. “It is very kind of storybook. The fact that we started with this and and end it here in Columbus.”

    Corso has a 66.5% winning rate on his headgear predictions (286-144), which is much better than his 73-85-6 mark in 15 years as a coach at Louisville, Indiana, and Northern Illinois.

    “Now that his career, obviously coaching but now as a broadcaster, is ending, you look back on the impact that you made. And he certainly made a major impact on a lot of people,” Ohio State coach Ryan Day said. “For him to be here for his last mascot game in his last year means a lot to all of us.”

    When GameDay started, Corso was the analytical one known for hot takes, while the late Beano Cook was the funny one who made game predictions a production.

    The show took place at ESPN’s studios in Bristol, Connecticut, until it went on the road for the first time in 1993, before Notre Dame hosted Florida State in a No. 1 vs. No. 2 matchup. The show has been on the road regularly since 1995.

    Chris Fowler was the host from 1990 through 2014 before Davis took over. Besides Herbstreit, Desmond Howard has been with the show since 2006, Pat McAfee joined in 2022, and Nick Saban last year after retiring from Alabama.

    Fowler, who will call Saturday night’s game between No. 9 LSU and fourth-ranked Clemson, will also be a part of the GameDay crew on Saturday.

    Texas coach Steve Sarkisian said the beauty of Corso and “College GameDay” is that they allow fans to experience the flavor of being at a game at Texas or Alabama on television.

    “Coach Corso was able to bring the aspect of a coach and a very analytical approach to the games being played, but then the entertainment and doing the headgear at the end of every show,” Sarkesian said. “I know that was something we all used to look forward to. What was he going to do? Like that was going to determine who would win the game or not, but that was the beauty of the show, getting people excited about every Saturday for college football.”

    Source link

  • Lee Corso’s final ‘College GameDay’ at Ohio State holds special significance

    It is rare for a sports broadcasting figure to retire on his own terms or to be able to accept the tributes or adulation of colleagues and fans.Lee Corso got to experience that on Saturday.Corso made his final appearance as part of ESPN’s “College GameDay” crew before No. 3 and reigning national champion Ohio State hosts top-ranked Texas.Video above: Lee Corso dons Ohio State headgearSince announcing his retirement earlier this year, Corso has received his share of acclaim and send-offs. He was honored at the ESPY Awards in July and received a standing ovation before boarding his flight in Orlando, Florida, on Thursday.”It’s a gamut of different emotions. I’m trying to stay in the celebratory lane this weekend,” said GameDay analyst Kirk Herbstreit, who has sat next to Corso since 1996. “We don’t want to be emotional or sad when it’s his last show. We can be sad next week. But this weekend, we need to be celebrating him. Everything he’s meant to us and to the sport.”Corso, who turned 90 on Aug. 7, has been a part of “GameDay” since its start in 1987 and has made pregame shows entertaining under a simple philosophy: “Football is just the vehicle. It’s entertainment, sweetheart.””Almost everyone, no matter what they accomplish in our industry, sort of gets dragged out boots first. They don’t really get a chance to say farewell,” GameDay host Rece Davis said on Friday after a production meeting. “I think it’s a real blessing that we’re able to give Lee his flowers on a day when he’s feeling great, doing great, and excited for a game.”GameDay’s 26th appearance in Columbus also marks a full-circle moment for Corso. It was outside Ohio Stadium on Oct. 5, 1996, where Corso’s popular headgear prediction segment began. Video below: Lee Corso visits Nebraska“This is one of the easiest picks I’ve ever made. Texas is loaded. Texas is number one. They have a Manning at quarterback. Poor, Ohio State. They ain’t got a chance. Give me my first love!” Corso said before putting on Brutus’ head for the 46th time.It ended up being prophetic as the Buckeyes defeated the Longhorns 14-7.Corso made the prediction on the 50-yard line at Ohio Stadium in front of 107,524 fans 16 minutes before kickoff, quite a change from the first time in 1996 when it was done in the parking lot outside the Horseshoe.The Ohio State band — which spelled out Corso during its pregame routine — was on the field and behind Corso as he made his pick.Corso donned Brutus Buckeye’s head before Ohio State faced Penn State, and the rest is history.Corso has worn 69 different schools’ mascot headgear and has dressed up as Notre Dame’s Fighting Irish leprechaun, the Stanford tree, and historic figures James Madison and Benjamin Franklin. However, Brutus remains Corso’s first love, wearing it 45 times.”When we looked at the schedule, the obvious place was to try to go to Tallahassee, where he played (at Florida State), but this game is so big. The fact that it’s a noon game. It became a no-brainer to have it here,” Herbstreit said. “It is very kind of storybook. The fact that we started with this and and end it here in Columbus.”Corso has a 66.5% winning rate on his headgear predictions (286-144), which is much better than his 73-85-6 mark in 15 years as a coach at Louisville, Indiana, and Northern Illinois.”Now that his career, obviously coaching but now as a broadcaster, is ending, you look back on the impact that you made. And he certainly made a major impact on a lot of people,” Ohio State coach Ryan Day said. “For him to be here for his last mascot game in his last year means a lot to all of us.”When GameDay started, Corso was the analytical one known for hot takes, while the late Beano Cook was the funny one who made game predictions a production.The show took place at ESPN’s studios in Bristol, Connecticut, until it went on the road for the first time in 1993, before Notre Dame hosted Florida State in a No. 1 vs. No. 2 matchup. The show has been on the road regularly since 1995.Chris Fowler was the host from 1990 through 2014 before Davis took over. Besides Herbstreit, Desmond Howard has been with the show since 2006, Pat McAfee joined in 2022, and Nick Saban last year after retiring from Alabama.Fowler, who will call Saturday night’s game between No. 9 LSU and fourth-ranked Clemson, will also be a part of the GameDay crew on Saturday.Texas coach Steve Sarkisian said the beauty of Corso and “College GameDay” is that they allow fans to experience the flavor of being at a game at Texas or Alabama on television.”Coach Corso was able to bring the aspect of a coach and a very analytical approach to the games being played, but then the entertainment and doing the headgear at the end of every show,” Sarkesian said. “I know that was something we all used to look forward to. What was he going to do? Like that was going to determine who would win the game or not, but that was the beauty of the show, getting people excited about every Saturday for college football.”

    COLUMBUS, Ohio —

    It is rare for a sports broadcasting figure to retire on his own terms or to be able to accept the tributes or adulation of colleagues and fans.

    Lee Corso got to experience that on Saturday.

    Corso made his final appearance as part of ESPN’s “College GameDay” crew before No. 3 and reigning national champion Ohio State hosts top-ranked Texas.

    Video above: Lee Corso dons Ohio State headgear

    Since announcing his retirement earlier this year, Corso has received his share of acclaim and send-offs. He was honored at the ESPY Awards in July and received a standing ovation before boarding his flight in Orlando, Florida, on Thursday.

    “It’s a gamut of different emotions. I’m trying to stay in the celebratory lane this weekend,” said GameDay analyst Kirk Herbstreit, who has sat next to Corso since 1996. “We don’t want to be emotional or sad when it’s his last show. We can be sad next week. But this weekend, we need to be celebrating him. Everything he’s meant to us and to the sport.”

    Corso, who turned 90 on Aug. 7, has been a part of “GameDay” since its start in 1987 and has made pregame shows entertaining under a simple philosophy: “Football is just the vehicle. It’s entertainment, sweetheart.”

    “Almost everyone, no matter what they accomplish in our industry, sort of gets dragged out boots first. They don’t really get a chance to say farewell,” GameDay host Rece Davis said on Friday after a production meeting. “I think it’s a real blessing that we’re able to give Lee his flowers on a day when he’s feeling great, doing great, and excited for a game.”

    GameDay’s 26th appearance in Columbus also marks a full-circle moment for Corso. It was outside Ohio Stadium on Oct. 5, 1996, where Corso’s popular headgear prediction segment began.

    Video below: Lee Corso visits Nebraska

    “This is one of the easiest picks I’ve ever made. Texas is loaded. Texas is number one. They have a Manning at quarterback. Poor, Ohio State. They ain’t got a chance. Give me my first love!” Corso said before putting on Brutus’ head for the 46th time.

    It ended up being prophetic as the Buckeyes defeated the Longhorns 14-7.

    Corso made the prediction on the 50-yard line at Ohio Stadium in front of 107,524 fans 16 minutes before kickoff, quite a change from the first time in 1996 when it was done in the parking lot outside the Horseshoe.

    The Ohio State band — which spelled out Corso during its pregame routine — was on the field and behind Corso as he made his pick.

    Corso donned Brutus Buckeye’s head before Ohio State faced Penn State, and the rest is history.

    Corso has worn 69 different schools’ mascot headgear and has dressed up as Notre Dame’s Fighting Irish leprechaun, the Stanford tree, and historic figures James Madison and Benjamin Franklin. However, Brutus remains Corso’s first love, wearing it 45 times.

    “When we looked at the schedule, the obvious place was to try to go to Tallahassee, where he played (at Florida State), but this game is so big. The fact that it’s a noon game. It became a no-brainer to have it here,” Herbstreit said. “It is very kind of storybook. The fact that we started with this and and end it here in Columbus.”

    Corso has a 66.5% winning rate on his headgear predictions (286-144), which is much better than his 73-85-6 mark in 15 years as a coach at Louisville, Indiana, and Northern Illinois.

    “Now that his career, obviously coaching but now as a broadcaster, is ending, you look back on the impact that you made. And he certainly made a major impact on a lot of people,” Ohio State coach Ryan Day said. “For him to be here for his last mascot game in his last year means a lot to all of us.”

    When GameDay started, Corso was the analytical one known for hot takes, while the late Beano Cook was the funny one who made game predictions a production.

    The show took place at ESPN’s studios in Bristol, Connecticut, until it went on the road for the first time in 1993, before Notre Dame hosted Florida State in a No. 1 vs. No. 2 matchup. The show has been on the road regularly since 1995.

    Chris Fowler was the host from 1990 through 2014 before Davis took over. Besides Herbstreit, Desmond Howard has been with the show since 2006, Pat McAfee joined in 2022, and Nick Saban last year after retiring from Alabama.

    Fowler, who will call Saturday night’s game between No. 9 LSU and fourth-ranked Clemson, will also be a part of the GameDay crew on Saturday.

    Texas coach Steve Sarkisian said the beauty of Corso and “College GameDay” is that they allow fans to experience the flavor of being at a game at Texas or Alabama on television.

    “Coach Corso was able to bring the aspect of a coach and a very analytical approach to the games being played, but then the entertainment and doing the headgear at the end of every show,” Sarkesian said. “I know that was something we all used to look forward to. What was he going to do? Like that was going to determine who would win the game or not, but that was the beauty of the show, getting people excited about every Saturday for college football.”

    Source link

  • Cryin’ Ryan Day And Ohio State QB Will Howard Are Still Whining About Loss To Oregon

    Cryin’ Ryan Day And Ohio State QB Will Howard Are Still Whining About Loss To Oregon

    It’s been over a week since Ohio State’s devastating 32-31 loss to Oregon, and apparently, neither head coach Ryan Day nor quarterback Will Howard can stop crying about it. While the rest of the world has moved on, it seems Howard and Day are still replaying that final play like a broken record.

    For those living under a rock, the Buckeyes were down by one and in position for a game-winning field goal when Howard decided to slide with seconds left. The problem? Time expired, the game ended, and Ohio State walked away losers. But according to Howard, he’s been beating himself up over it ever since.

    “Believe me, I’ve played it over in my head a million different times – what I could have done,” Howard lamented as quoted by Eleven Warriors. “Could I have thrown it to Brandon Inniss for a long field goal attempt? I wanted to get our goal. We said we wanted 15 yards, so I was trying to get as many yards as I could. I thought I had enough time. It’s been nagging at me.”

    Cue the tiny violin. Howard still insists there was time left to call a timeout and give the Buckeyes a shot at a game-winning field goal. “Yeah, I thought I was down with one second,” Howard said, as if the league office is going to reverse the result just because he’s sulking. “But they didn’t feel like clearing the field with all the kids that were already on it. It’s tough. But we always talk about leaving no doubt. I probably should have gotten down even quicker.”

    And, of course, head coach Ryan Day has joined in the pity party. According to Day, Ohio State submitted the play to the league office to review, because, you know, maybe that would change the outcome. Spoiler alert: It didn’t.

    “We sent it in. They said that there was no time left,” Day said. “Brandon was calling a timeout. I was next to the referee calling a timeout. You can see it on the coach’s copy. They said time had run out.”

    Well, Ryan, that’s how clocks work. They run out. No matter how many times you send in reviews or beg for a redo, the scoreboard still shows Oregon 32, Ohio State 31. But hey, keep crying about it.

    And don’t worry, Day’s not done yet. He’s vowed to ensure that this never happens again. “It’s my job as the head coach to make sure that if we get into that situation again, we win the game,” Day said, clearly still stewing. “Trust me, nobody is working harder and nobody felt worse coming out of that game than I did.”

    Sure, Ryan. But here’s a tip: instead of rehashing the same old sob story, maybe try focusing on, I don’t know, winning next time. Because the only thing worse than losing by one point is whining about it for the next two weeks.

    W.G. Brady

    Source link

  • College football live scores, games, updates: Iowa at Ohio State, Auburn at Georgia and more

    College football live scores, games, updates: Iowa at Ohio State, Auburn at Georgia and more

    Week 6 of college football features just one matchup between top 25 teams, but there’s still plenty of teams on upset watch.

    That’s typically how these types of weeks work. Will a team like No. 4 Tennessee get a scare at Arkansas? What about No. 8 Miami at Cal in an ACC After Dark special? Can No. 12 Ole Miss bounce back with a win at South Carolina? We’re about to find out.

    Here are the games we’re keeping a close eye on Saturday. All times are Eastern and all odds are from BetMGM.

    Noon | TV: ABC | Line: Texas A&M -2.5 | Total: 48.5

    The day begins with the only ranked matchup. Marcel Reed looks likely to start at QB for A&M as Conner Weigman continues to recover from a shoulder injury. Meanwhile, Missouri is looking to get its deep passing offense on track. QB Brady Cook excelled throwing the ball down the field a season ago but is averaging just 7.1 yards a pass so far in 2024.

    3:30 p.m. | TV: CBS | Line: Ohio State -19.5 | Total: 45.5

    It’s hard to see how Iowa’s offense can keep up. But the Iowa defense is the best unit Ohio State has seen so far, and we’re excited to see how the Buckeyes look against the stingy Hawkeyes.

    3:30 p.m. | TV: ESPN | Line: Ole Miss -9.5 | Total: 53.5

    Ole Miss is looking to bounce back from an ugly 20-17 upset loss to Kentucky last week. South Carolina’s defense is just as good as the Wildcats. Ask Kentucky. The Gamecocks dominated Kentucky in a 31-6 Week 2 win. But can South Carolina’s offense keep up? Stay tuned.

    7:30 p.m. | TV: ABC | Line: Tennessee -13.5 | Total 58.5

    Tennessee’s offense has produced the highlights so far, but the defense has given up just 28 points over four games and the defensive line has shown itself to be one of the best in the SEC. It’ll be a big challenge for the Arkansas offense, which can be explosive when it’s not turning the ball over.

    10:30 p.m. | TV: ESPN | Line: Miami -10.5 | Total: 54.5

    Miami’s learning what life is like in the new ACC as it heads out west to visit the Bears for a late-night kickoff in Berkeley, which is also hosting “GameDay.” Can Miami and Heisman hopeful QB Cam Ward keep rolling against a feisty Cal team which is off to a 3-1 start?

    Live49 updates

    • Touchdown Georgia!

      The Bulldogs are in the end zone on a short run by Trevor Etienne. That finishes off an 11-play, 75-yard drive for Georgia.

    • Big man TD for Ole Miss!

      Ole Miss defensive tackle JJ Pegues (325 pounds) tumbles forward for a 1-yard TD run!

      The Rebels took advantage of another short field after recovering a South Carolina fumble.

      Ole Miss 14, South Carolina 0, mid 1st

    • Touchdown Ohio State!

      The Buckeyes are on the board first after a 14-play, 88-yard drive is capped off by a 14- pass from Will Howard to Emeka Egbuka.

    • In Athens, Auburn started with the ball but quickly punted it to Georgia and now the Bulldogs are in the red zone.

    • In Columbus, the Buckeyes have the ball after a brief opening possession by Iowa. They’ve crossed midfield and are nearing the red zone.

    • Ole Miss strikes first

      In another key SEC matchup today, Ole Miss is off to a quick start vs. South Carolina with Henry Parrish Jr. rushing in a touchdown from 3 yards out to start the scoring.

      Ole Miss got the ball in great field position after SC failed to convert on a fake punt.

      Ole Miss 7, South Carolina 0, early 1st

    • We are underway with the afternoon slate of games. This window features plenty of ranked teams in action.

      Ole Miss-South Carolina
      Iowa-Ohio State
      Auburn-Georgia
      Indiana-Northwestern

    • Final: Texas A&M 41, Missouri 10

      The Tigers tacked on a late field goal, but it’s an abysmal performance overall. It’s Texas A&M’s largest margin of victory over a top-10 team in school history.

    • Final: Penn State 27, UCLA 11

      The Bruins get a garbage-time TD at the end of the game, but they’ll remain winless in the Big Ten after another big loss.

    • Touchdown Texas A&M!

      The Aggies are piling it on now. It’s Le’Veon Moss once again, scoring his third TD of the day with a 18-yard run.

    • Missouri turns it over on downs

      That’ll likely do it for the Tigers. On fourth-and-19, Brady Cook scrambled and had a receiver open, but the ball fell incomplete.

      There’s just nothing positive happening for No. 9 Missouri today.

    • Louisville, SMU trading TDs in shootout

      In what’s perhaps the most competitive game of the morning window, Louisville has tied things up with SMU on a 86-yard TD throw from Tyler Shough to Ja’Corey Brooks.

    • End of 3Q: Texas A&M 31, Missouri 7

      The Tigers have the ball in A&M territory and they desperately need points on this drive to stay alive. They’re facing a third-and-5 at the 44.

    • Mizzou finally on the board

      It took almost 40 minutes of gametime, but Missouri has scored. Brady Cook finds Theo Wease Jr. for a 59-yard catch-and-run touchdown to make it 34-7.

    • A&M adds field goal

      The Aggies’ lead is up to 34-0 after a time-consuming drive ends with a 38-yard field goal by A&M kicker Randy Bond.

      There’s just over 6 minutes left in the third quarter.

    • Touchdown Texas A&M!

      The Aggies are piling it on now. Le’Veon Moss just broke off a 75-yard run to open the second half and it’s now 31-0 A&M!

    • We are back for the second half in College Station. Can Missouri climb its way back into the game, or at least make it competitive?

    • Early scoreboard update

      Saturday scoreboard

      Saturday scoreboard

    • Halftime: Texas A&M 24, Missouri 0

      The Aggies go into the break with a massive lead. Conner Weigman is back and dealing the pigskin, completing 15 of 19 passes for 193 yards in the first two quarters.

    Staff, Yahoo Sports

    Source link

  • Former Oregon Head Football Coach Chip Kelly Leaving UCLA To Become Assistant At Ohio State – KXL

    Former Oregon Head Football Coach Chip Kelly Leaving UCLA To Become Assistant At Ohio State – KXL


    (Associated Press) – UCLA coach Chip Kelly stepped down Friday after six seasons leading the Bruins, leaving the school with vacancy at the top just as programs are starting to gear up for spring practices.

    Multiple media outlets reported that Kelly was heading to Ohio State to become offensive coordinator.

    Kelly had a 35-34 record in six years with the Bruins, but the program was showing signs of stagnating, especially with a move to the Big Ten next season.

    More about:



    Grant McHill

    Source link

  • recreational marijuana: Marijuana: US states that have acted to legalize recreational marijuana – Medical Marijuana Program Connection

    recreational marijuana: Marijuana: US states that have acted to legalize recreational marijuana – Medical Marijuana Program Connection

    Ohio recently joined as the 24th state to approve recreational use of marijuana. Additionally, 38 states and Washington, DC, have sanctioned comprehensive medical programs, with Kentucky signing a law for medical use, effective in 2025. Legal adult recreational use policies are now in place in 24 states and Washington, D.C. Ohio’s new law takes effect 30 days post-election.
    Take a look at all the states that have legalized it over the years.Colorado and Washington (2012): These states led the way, permitting an ounce possession and six plants. Retail sales face standard and additional marijuana taxes.Alaska and Oregon (2014): Alaska and Oregon mirrored possession limits. Alaska’s excise tax falls on cultivators, while Oregon enforces a 17% retail sales tax.

    Washington, D.C. (2014): Allows possession of 2 ounces and home cultivation, but no legal recreational sales due to regulatory constraints.

    California, Maine, Massachusetts, Nevada (2016): The shared features include an ounce possession limit, home cultivation, and legal retail sales. Tax rates vary.

    Vermont (2018): Initially allowed home cultivation and possession, with retail licenses arriving in October 2022. Limits include an ounce and growing plants per household.

    Guam (2019): Allows possession of an ounce and six plants. Cannabis Control Board formulates trading guidelines.

    Illinois (2019): Residents over 21 can possess 30 grams. Tax rates vary based on THC content.

    New Jersey (2020): Adults over 21 can use cannabis,…

    Original Author Link click here to read complete story..

    MMP News Author

    Source link

  • Big Ten Football Week 9: How to Listen

    Big Ten Football Week 9: How to Listen

    Week 9 of the 2023 Big Ten Football season is set to go, including a pair of divisional matchups: Tune in to Big Ten Radio (Ch. 372) all weekend long.

    Big Ten Football Saturday, October 28:

    Indiana (Ch. 957) at Penn State (Ch. 83)

    Noon ET – CBS, SiriusXM Big Ten Radio Channel 372

    The Hoosiers (2-5) travel to take on the Nittany Lions (6-1). Indiana lost to Rutgers last week 31-14 while Penn State was beaten by Ohio State20-12.

    Maryland (Ch. 967) at Northwestern (Ch. 958)

    Noon ET – BTN

    The Terrapins (5-2) head to Evanston to battle the Wildcats (3-4). Maryland was idle last weekend while Northwestern lost 17-9 to Nebraska.

    Michigan State (Ch. 958) at Minnesota (Ch. 957)

    3:30 pm ET – BTN, SiriusXM Big Ten Radio Channel 372

    The Spartans (2-5) visit the Golden Gophers (4-3). Michigan State was shutout by Michigan 49-0 last Saturday while Minnesota defeated Iowa 12-10.

    Purdue (Ch. 966) at Nebraska 

    3:30 pm ET – FS1

    The Boilermakers (2-5) make the trek west to battle the Corn Huskers (4-3). Purdue was idle last week while Nebraska beat Northwestern 17-9.

    Ohio State (Ch. 85) at Wisconsin (Ch. 82)

    7:30 pm ET – NBC, SiriusXM Big Ten Radio Channel 372

    The undefeated Buckeyes (7-0) head to Camp Randall to take on the Badgers (5-2). Ohio State beat Penn State 20-12 last week while Wisconsin went on the road and took down Illinois 25-21.

    Bye Week:

    Illinois, Iowa, Michigan, Rutgers

    Want to listen to more games? Throughout the 2023 College Football season, SiriusXM listeners get access to dozens of game broadcasts each week involving teams from the ACC, Big Ten, Big 12, Pac-12, SEC, and other conferences — plus Army, Navy, HBCU football and more. For more information about SiriusXM’s college football offerings, click here.

    SiriusXM College Football Channels


    Peterpistone

    Source link

  • Ohio State QB Kyle McCord: 5 things to know about OSU’s starter

    Ohio State QB Kyle McCord: 5 things to know about OSU’s starter

    The first-year starting quarterbacks who will take the field during Saturday’s Penn State-Ohio State football game could easily be on opposite sidelines.

    Kyle McCord, a former five-star recruit who played high school football in Pennsylvania, now starts for the Buckeyes. And Drew Allar, a five-star prospect during his prep career in Ohio, is currently under center for the Nittany Lions. This reunion of sorts will mark McCord’s second start against a top-10 team, though first against a ranked Big Ten opponent. Ohio State already defeated a top-10 Notre Dame squad earlier this season.

    Buckeyes coach Ryan Day is confident McCord will seize the moment again.

    “I think the good thing is again, for somebody who’s been in the system for a couple years, they’ve been through preparation before they’ve been through game planning situations, they’ve seen the games live,” Day said of McCord at a press conference this week. “You know, I think a lot of our guys understand what this game is going to be and the intensity.”

    Kyle McCord #6 of the Ohio State Buckeyes warms up during the game against the Purdue Boilermakers at Ross-Ade Stadium on October 14, 2023 in West Lafayette, Indiana. McCord and the Buckeyes host Penn State in a top-10 matchup on Saturday.
    ustin Casterline/Getty Images/Getty Images

    McCord has the Buckeyes out to a 6-0 start to his first year as the top QB in Columbus. The junior has thrown for 1,651 yards and 11 touchdowns compared to only one pick this season. But a test with Penn State’s No. 1 overall defense, in terms of yards allowed per game, awaits.

    No. 3 Ohio State hosts No. 7 Penn State at noon ET on Saturday in a game that will help decide the Big Ten East’s representative in the conference championship game.

    Here are five things to know about McCord before kickoff.

    PSU Analyst Was His High School Coach

    The Penn State football program is more than familiar with its opponent’s QB.

    McCord went to high school at St. Joseph’s Preparatory School in Philadelphia, about 200 miles away from State College. The QB from Mt. Laurel, New Jersey — located across the Delaware River from Philly — was recruited by Penn State before eventually heading to Columbus. But the connections don’t end there. Gabe Infante, currently a defensive analyst for the Nittany Lions, was McCord’s head football coach in high school.

    “We know a lot about him,” Penn State head coach James Franklin said of McCord this week. “We had a ton of respect for him out of high school and continue to. Think he’s going to be a challenge for us on Saturday… He’s doing what he needs to do for them to be successful offensively and win games.”

    High School Teammates With Marvin Harrison Jr.

    Before Marvin Harrison Jr. was McCord’s top receiving target with the Buckeyes, the two juniors formed a dynamic duo at St. Joes.

    McCord set city and league records for career passing yards (6,887) and touchdown passes (88) during his prep career. Harrison was a big reason why. The 6-foot-4 wide receiver set Philadelphia Catholic League records with 2,625 receiving yards and 37 touchdowns in high school. The high school teammates were both highly rated recruits before coming to OSU.

    “When we first started playing with each other my sophomore year of high school, it’s something that we always talked about,” McCord told reporters in the spring about his desire to play with Harrison in college. “And obviously it’s crazy the way everything worked itself out.”

    Harrison earned All-American honors after catching 77 passes for 1,263 yards and 14 touchdowns last season. The 21-year-old is widely considered the top wide receiver prospect, and one of the best players overall, in the 2024 NFL Draft.

    In Same OSU Recruiting Class As Quinn Ewers

    McCord was one of two highly sought-after QBs in Ohio State’s 2021 recruiting class. The other? Current Texas starting quarterback Quinn Ewers.

    Ohio State’s overall class that year was ranked No. 2 in the nation, according to 247 Sports. Ewers was a big reason why. The recruit out of Texas was the nation’s top overall prospect at the time. Ewers was previously part of the 2022 class before he reclassified and enrolled early.

    Read more sports news from Newsweek

    McCord, meanwhile, was also among the six five-star recruits at that position in 2021, per the Columbus Dispatch. Caleb Williams, USC’s reigning Heisman Trophy winner, and Michigan’s J.J. McCarthy were among the others. Ewers ended up transferring after his freshman season in Columbus and has spent the last two seasons starting under center in Austin.

    Allar was in the recruiting class after McCord. Day said this week that by the time Ewers reclassified out of the class of 2022, Ohio State couldn’t pursue Allar because he was already committed to Penn State.

    Backed Up C.J. Stroud For Two Seasons

    McCord has a pretty good example to follow during his first two seasons at Ohio State. The 21-year-old signal-caller spent his freshman and sophomore seasons backing up Buckeye starter C.J. Stroud. Over two seasons as Ohio State’s starting QB, Stroud threw for a combined 8,123 yards and 85 touchdowns.

    Ohio State won the Rose Bowl with Stroud during the 2021 season, then came up just short against Georgia in the College Football Playoff semifinals during his junior year.

    Stroud was a two-time Heisman finalist. The Houston Texans selected him with the No. 2 overall pick in this year’s NFL Draft, and Stroud is currently a frontrunner for Offensive Rookie of the Year honors. Stroud, who has nine passing touchdowns through six NFL games, set a league record with 192 career pass attempts before throwing his first interception.

    “I come from Ohio State,” Stroud said at a Texans press conference earlier this season, highlighting the Buckeyes’ win over Notre Dame. “Go Bucks. You know, got the dub last night, hard-fought win. Shout out Kyle McCord, my dog. All them boys on the defense, you know.”

    Made Ohio State History in 2021

    With Stroud’s departure to the NFL, McCord entered the 2023 season as the most experienced QB on Ohio State’s roster. But that didn’t mean he had much in-game experience.

    The 6-foot-3 QB had thrown for 606 yards, three touchdowns, and two picks overall in limited snaps before earning the starting spot this season.

    McCord’s only start before this season came as a freshman in 2021. Stroud was sidelined with an injury for Ohio State’s game against Akron. McCord filled in and threw for 319 yards, two touchdowns, and an interception in a 59-7 Buckeyes win. With that start, McCord and running back TreVeyon Henderson became the first QB-RB true freshmen duo to start in the same game in program history.