Early Years: The Birth of a Legacy
The history of Ohio State quarterbacks can be traced back to the early 20th century, when the program first began to establish itself as a powerhouse in college football. The evolution of the quarterback position during this time laid the groundwork for future successes.
Pre-World War II Era
- Early Development: The role of the quarterback was different in the early days of football, primarily focusing on running the ball rather than passing. The Buckeyes utilized a variety of formations, often relying on strong running games.
- Notable Players: One of the early standout quarterbacks was Leroy "L.T." Timmons, who played for Ohio State in the 1920s and helped shape the team's early identity.
Post-War Transformation
After World War II, the game began to evolve, and so did the role of the quarterback. The advent of more sophisticated offensive schemes allowed quarterbacks to showcase their passing abilities.
- The 1950s and 1960s: Players like Don Scott and Rex Kern emerged as prominent figures, helping to further establish Ohio State as a formidable force in college football.
The Golden Era of the 1970s and 1980s
The 1970s and 1980s marked a golden era for Ohio State quarterbacks, with several players gaining national prominence and leading the team to significant successes.
Archie Griffin and the Rise of the Option Offense
- Archie Griffin: Although primarily known as a running back, Griffin's impact on the quarterback role was significant. His dual-threat capability forced defenses to adapt, allowing quarterbacks like Kern to thrive.
- Rex Kern: Leading the Buckeyes to a national championship in 1968, Kern set the stage for future quarterbacks to take advantage of the emerging passing game.
The 1980s: A New Wave of Talent
- Jim Karsatos: A key player in the early 1980s, Karsatos led the Buckeyes to a Rose Bowl appearance in 1985.
- Mike Tomczak: Another notable quarterback from this era, Tomczak was instrumental in the Buckeyes' success, finishing his career with impressive passing statistics.
The Modern Era: Dominance and Records
As college football evolved into a high-scoring, pass-heavy game, Ohio State adapted and produced a new generation of quarterbacks who set records and won accolades.
1990s: The Emergence of Stars
- Bobby Hoying: Playing from 1992 to 1995, Hoying set numerous school records, including passing yards and touchdowns, and led the Buckeyes to a memorable season.
- Joe Germaine: Known for his performance in the late 1990s, Germaine led Ohio State to a national championship game appearance in 1999.
2000s: The Heisman Trophy Winners
- Craig Krenzel: Krenzel played a pivotal role in leading Ohio State to the 2002 national championship, earning widespread acclaim for his leadership and clutch performances.
- Troy Smith: One of the most celebrated quarterbacks in Ohio State history, Smith won the Heisman Trophy in 2006, leading the Buckeyes to an undefeated regular season and a spot in the national title game.
The 2010s: Continued Excellence
The 2010s continued the tradition of excellence at the quarterback position, with several players stepping into the spotlight.
Braxton Miller: The Dual-Threat Sensation
- Braxton Miller: Known for his incredible athleticism and ability to make plays with both his arm and legs, Miller was a dynamic force for the Buckeyes from 2011 to 2015. He led Ohio State to multiple Big Ten titles and was a two-time Big Ten Offensive Player of the Year.
J.T. Barrett: A Record-Setting Career
- J.T. Barrett: Taking over as the starting quarterback in 2014, Barrett set numerous school records, including career touchdowns and passing yards. He led Ohio State to a national championship in 2014, becoming one of the most decorated quarterbacks in program history.
Recent Years: The Future of Ohio State Quarterbacks
As Ohio State continues to be a breeding ground for NFL talent, recent quarterbacks have kept the tradition alive.
Dwayne Haskins: A Record-Breaking Season
- Dwayne Haskins: In 2018, Haskins had a historic season, throwing for over 4,800 yards and 50 touchdown passes, breaking multiple school records. His performance earned him a spot as a first-round draft pick in the NFL.
Justin Fields: The Next Generation
- Justin Fields: Transferring from Georgia, Fields made an immediate impact at Ohio State, leading the Buckeyes to the College Football Playoff and finishing as a Heisman Trophy finalist in 2019. His combination of passing and rushing ability made him a standout player.
Conclusion: A Legacy of Excellence
The Ohio State quarterback history is not just a list of names; it is a storied legacy filled with remarkable achievements, unforgettable moments, and a tradition of excellence. From the early days of the program to the modern era of high-powered offenses, Ohio State quarterbacks have consistently showcased their talent on the national stage. As the Buckeyes continue to evolve and adapt to the changing landscape of college football, the expectation remains that future quarterbacks will uphold the proud tradition established by their predecessors. Whether it be through national championships, Heisman Trophy victories, or records set, the legacy of Ohio State quarterbacks will undoubtedly continue for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was the first starting quarterback for Ohio State University?
The first starting quarterback for Ohio State University was John Wilce, who played in the early 1920s.
Which Ohio State quarterback won the Heisman Trophy in 1975?
The Ohio State quarterback who won the Heisman Trophy in 1975 was Archie Griffin.
Who is the all-time leader in passing yards for Ohio State quarterbacks?
As of 2023, the all-time leader in passing yards for Ohio State quarterbacks is Justin Fields.
What significant achievement did Troy Smith accomplish in 2006?
Troy Smith won the Heisman Trophy in 2006, becoming Ohio State's sixth Heisman winner.
Which Ohio State quarterback led the team to a national championship in 2002?
Craig Krenzel was the quarterback who led Ohio State to a national championship in 2002.
Who was Ohio State's starting quarterback during their playoff run in 2014?
Cardale Jones was the starting quarterback during Ohio State's playoff run in 2014, leading the team to a national championship.
Which Ohio State quarterback was known for his dual-threat abilities in the early 2000s?
Troy Smith was known for his dual-threat abilities in the early 2000s.
What record did Dwayne Haskins set during his time at Ohio State?
Dwayne Haskins set the Ohio State single-season record for passing touchdowns with 50 in 2018.
Who was the quarterback for Ohio State during the 2019 season?
Justin Fields was the starting quarterback for Ohio State during the 2019 season.
