Early Years: The Foundation of Ohio State Quarterbacks
The history of Ohio State quarterbacks begins in the early 1900s when football was still in its infancy as a collegiate sport. The Buckeyes played their first official game in 1890, but it wasn’t until the 1920s that the quarterback position began to take shape.
The 1920s and 1930s: Pioneers of the Position
In the 1920s, Ohio State saw its first notable quarterback, Chic Harley, who played from 1916-1919. Although he was primarily known as a running back, Harley’s leadership and playmaking ability paved the way for future quarterbacks.
The late 1930s introduced John D. McCafferty, who became a key player during his time at Ohio State. As the first quarterback to lead the Buckeyes to a conference championship, McCafferty set a precedent for those who would follow.
The Golden Era: 1940s to 1960s
The 1940s and 1950s marked a golden era for Ohio State quarterbacks, as the program began to gain national prominence.
Notable Quarterbacks
1. Les Horvath (1944-1946): Horvath was not only a star quarterback but also won the Heisman Trophy in 1944. His dual-threat capabilities made him a pioneering figure in Ohio State football history.
2. Mike Phipps (1966-1968): Leading the Buckeyes during a competitive era, Phipps was known for his strong arm and ability to read defenses. He became a first-round draft pick in the NFL, illustrating the potential for Ohio State quarterbacks in professional football.
Modern Era: 1970s to 1990s
The 1970s through the early 1990s showcased a transition in the quarterback role at Ohio State, with the emergence of more dynamic and versatile players.
Key Figures
1. Cornelius Greene (1972-1975): Greene was the first African American starting quarterback at Ohio State. His ability to run and pass effectively made him a dual-threat quarterback, leading the Buckeyes to multiple victories in the Big Ten.
2. Art Schlichter (1978-1981): Known for his strong leadership and competitive spirit, Schlichter broke several passing records during his time at Ohio State, including becoming the first quarterback in school history to throw for over 4,000 yards.
Transition to Pro Style Offenses
As the game evolved, so did the style of play at Ohio State. The 1980s and 1990s saw a shift towards more pro-style offenses, emphasizing passing over running.
1. Bobby Hoying (1993-1995): Hoying set several school records for passing yards and touchdowns, leading the Buckeyes to a successful campaign in the mid-1990s. His performance earned him a spot in the NFL, further establishing Ohio State's reputation as a quarterback factory.
21st Century: The Rise of Quarterback Talent
The new millennium ushered in an era of unprecedented quarterback talent at Ohio State, with several players achieving significant success both in college and the NFL.
Elite Quarterbacks
1. Craig Krenzel (2001-2003): Krenzel was instrumental in leading Ohio State to a national championship in 2002. His poise in crucial moments and ability to manage games made him a fan favorite.
2. Troy Smith (2004-2006): Smith's tenure at Ohio State was marked by his electrifying play. He won the Heisman Trophy in 2006 and led the Buckeyes to a national championship game, solidifying his legacy as one of the greatest quarterbacks in Ohio State history.
3. Terrelle Pryor (2008-2010): A highly touted recruit, Pryor's athleticism and playmaking ability changed the way the quarterback position was viewed at Ohio State. His time as a starter was filled with highs and lows, but he remains one of the most recognized names in Buckeye lore.
Recent Success: 2010s to Present
As Ohio State continued to dominate in college football, the quarterback position saw further evolution with players like:
1. Braxton Miller (2011-2015): Miller became a household name for his dynamic play and ability to run the ball effectively. He was a two-time Big Ten Offensive Player of the Year and left a lasting impact on the program.
2. J.T. Barrett (2014-2017): Barrett broke multiple records during his time at Ohio State, including the all-time passing touchdown record. His leadership skills and ability to come through in clutch situations made him a beloved figure in Buckeye history.
3. Dwayne Haskins (2018): Haskins showcased a powerful arm and precision passing, leading the Buckeyes to a Big Ten Championship and breaking several single-season passing records. He was a finalist for the Heisman Trophy, further elevating the status of Ohio State quarterbacks.
4. Justin Fields (2019-2020): Fields brought a new level of athleticism and skill to the position, leading the Buckeyes to the College Football Playoff and a national championship appearance. His time at Ohio State solidified his status as a top NFL draft prospect.
Conclusion
The history of Ohio State quarterbacks is not just a timeline of individual achievements; it reflects the evolution of the game itself. From the early pioneers to the modern dual-threat quarterbacks, each player has contributed to the rich tapestry of Ohio State football. As the program continues to develop future talent, the legacies of past quarterbacks will undoubtedly inspire new generations of players to excel on the field. With a tradition steeped in excellence, Ohio State will continue to be a breeding ground for elite quarterbacks for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was the first starting quarterback for Ohio State University?
The first starting quarterback for Ohio State was William 'Bill' T. H. H. P. 'B. C.' McMillan, who played in 1890.
What notable achievement did Art Schlichter accomplish during his time as Ohio State's quarterback?
Art Schlichter set several passing records at Ohio State and was a consensus All-American in 1979, leading the Buckeyes to a Big Ten Championship.
Which Ohio State quarterback won the Heisman Trophy?
Troy Smith won the Heisman Trophy in 2006, becoming the first Ohio State quarterback to achieve this honor since Les Horvath in 1944.
Who is regarded as one of the best quarterbacks in Ohio State history?
Justin Fields is often regarded as one of the best quarterbacks in Ohio State history, known for his dual-threat ability and leading the team to the College Football Playoff in 2019.
What impact did Dwayne Haskins have on Ohio State's quarterback legacy?
Dwayne Haskins set the single-season passing yard record for Ohio State in 2018 and was a finalist for the Heisman Trophy, solidifying his place in the school's QB legacy.
What is the significance of the 'Quarterback Factory' nickname for Ohio State?
The 'Quarterback Factory' nickname reflects Ohio State's reputation for producing high-level quarterbacks who go on to succeed in the NFL, such as Joe Burrow and Cardale Jones.
How did Cardale Jones' performance in the 2014 season impact Ohio State's history?
Cardale Jones led Ohio State to a national championship in 2014 as a third-string quarterback, becoming a key figure in the team's history and demonstrating the depth of talent at the position.
Who succeeded J.T. Barrett as the starting quarterback for Ohio State?
Dwayne Haskins succeeded J.T. Barrett as the starting quarterback for Ohio State in 2018, following Barrett's successful four-year tenure.
What role did the spread offense play in Ohio State's quarterback development?
The adoption of the spread offense at Ohio State has allowed quarterbacks to showcase their passing and running abilities, leading to higher statistics and NFL draft prospects.
