Ohio State Buckeyes Coach Gets Blunt on QB Competition: The Road to Finding the Next Leader

As the Ohio State Buckeyes prepare for another season in the ever-competitive world of college football, one of the biggest questions on the minds of fans, media, and players alike is who will lead the team under center. With a program known for its prolific offenses, from legendary quarterbacks like Troy Smith to Dwayne Haskins and Justin Fields, the Buckeyes are once again in search of a new quarterback to guide them to potential championship glory.

In the midst of this critical transition, head coach Ryan Day is taking a no-nonsense approach to Ohio State’s quarterback competition. Known for his offensive acumen and quarterback development, Day has been forthright in his assessment of the position, refusing to sugarcoat the challenges that come with finding the next leader of the Buckeyes’ high-powered offense. With the 2025 season approaching, Day’s candid remarks on the state of the quarterback competition have only intensified the anticipation surrounding the team.

This article delves into the quarterback competition at Ohio State, examining Ryan Day’s blunt approach to the situation, the potential candidates for the role, and what it means for the Buckeyes as they look to continue their dominance in the Big Ten and on the national stage.

Ryan Day’s Candid Approach: Setting Expectations Early

In past years, Ohio State’s quarterback competitions have generated significant buzz. The program has long been known for producing top-tier quarterbacks who go on to have successful careers in the NFL. This season, however, Day is taking a more transparent and direct approach with both the media and the players. He has openly acknowledged the uncertainty surrounding the quarterback position, noting that there is no clear frontrunner just yet.

In an early press conference, Day was blunt in his assessment, saying, “We’re not going to be coddling anyone in this competition. We’re looking for a quarterback who can lead this team, execute at a high level, and, most importantly, make the plays that win games. The competition is open, and there are no guarantees for anyone.”

This frankness sets the tone for what promises to be a rigorous battle for the starting quarterback role. It’s a stark departure from the usual rhetoric surrounding quarterback competitions, where coaches often offer vague statements about how things are “still up in the air” and “everyone has a chance.” Instead, Day is making it clear that only the most capable and consistent players will earn the privilege of leading the offense.

Day’s approach also speaks to the pressure and expectations that come with playing at a program like Ohio State. The Buckeyes’ offense is built around a dynamic passing attack, and the quarterback is expected to be a leader, a playmaker, and someone who can handle the spotlight. Day’s no-nonsense approach reflects his belief that the quarterback must be fully prepared to rise to the occasion.

The Contenders: Who is Competing for the Starting Role?

Ohio State’s quarterback competition is wide open, with multiple players vying for the starting job. While some may have more experience than others, the competition is likely to come down to a battle of skill sets, intangibles, and overall performance in both practice and games.

1. Kyle McCord (Junior)

Kyle McCord enters the 2025 season as one of the most experienced quarterbacks on the roster. A highly rated recruit from the 2022 class, McCord has spent two seasons in the program, backing up C.J. Stroud, one of the best quarterbacks in Ohio State history. While McCord has had limited playing time, he showed flashes of his potential when given the opportunity to step in during blowout games and mop-up duty.

McCord’s skill set is undeniable. He has a strong arm, good pocket awareness, and a natural ability to make all the throws required in Ohio State’s high-flying offense. However, McCord has yet to truly showcase his abilities in a full-time starting role. The question surrounding McCord has been about consistency—can he perform at a high level for four quarters against top-tier competition? Day has praised McCord’s work ethic, but he also made it clear that the starting position is far from guaranteed.

2. Devin Brown (Sophomore)

Devin Brown is a talented dual-threat quarterback who has earned a lot of attention during his time at Ohio State. As a freshman, he displayed his athleticism and playmaking ability in practices and scrimmages. Brown is known for his mobility, ability to extend plays with his legs, and his impressive arm strength. However, his experience in game situations is limited, making him an intriguing but somewhat unproven option for the starting role.

Brown’s style of play would give Ohio State’s offense a different dimension. His ability to escape pressure and make plays on the move could complement the Buckeyes’ potent rushing attack and add another layer to their offense. However, Brown’s ability to read defenses, make quick decisions, and avoid mistakes will be critical to his success. As Day has pointed out, being able to handle the mental aspect of the game—especially in high-pressure situations—will be essential for Brown to seize the starting role.

3. Tristan Gebbia (Graduate Transfer)

Ohio State also brought in graduate transfer Tristan Gebbia, who has years of college football experience, including time at Oregon State. While Gebbia isn’t considered a high-profile player like McCord or Brown, his leadership and maturity could provide stability to Ohio State’s quarterback room. Known for his calm demeanor and ability to manage games, Gebbia is seen as a player who can help guide the offense with precision and consistency.

Gebbia’s experience could be a valuable asset, especially if the competition between McCord and Brown remains tight. His ability to step in and provide reliable quarterback play could make him an option for Day if the other contenders struggle to separate themselves.

The Pressure to Succeed: Ohio State’s High Standards

At Ohio State, the expectations for the quarterback position are extremely high. The Buckeyes have been blessed with some of the most talented quarterbacks in college football history, and as a result, the next starter will be asked to continue that tradition of excellence.

The offensive system at Ohio State has produced record-breaking seasons, with the program’s quarterbacks regularly putting up huge numbers. Whether it was Dwayne Haskins setting passing records in 2018, Justin Fields leading the team to the 2020 College Football Playoff, or C.J. Stroud developing into a Heisman finalist, Ohio State quarterbacks have consistently been asked to perform at the highest level.

For the next QB in line, the pressure to perform immediately is immense. Ryan Day’s blunt comments reflect the reality that Ohio State’s offense cannot afford to take a step back. The quarterback position is arguably the most important on the field, and with so many talented playmakers surrounding the signal-caller, it’s imperative that the right player is under center to orchestrate the offense.

The Role of the Offensive Line and Skill Players

While the quarterback position is the focal point of the competition, Ohio State’s success will also depend on how well the offensive line and skill players perform in 2025. The Buckeyes have a strong tradition of developing top-tier offensive linemen, and the unit’s ability to protect the quarterback and establish the run game will be essential for success.

Likewise, Ohio State’s wide receivers and running backs—many of whom are among the best in the country—will play a significant role in supporting whichever quarterback wins the job. Ohio State’s receiving corps, led by emerging stars, is deep and talented, providing the quarterback with multiple weapons. Whether it’s a deep-ball threat, a reliable possession receiver, or a dynamic running back out of the backfield, the supporting cast is among the best in the nation.

For the quarterback to succeed, they will need to build strong chemistry with these skill players and be able to make quick, decisive decisions under pressure. The offensive line must also give the quarterback ample time to survey the field and execute the game plan effectively.

Ryan Day’s Leadership: Setting the Tone for the Competition

Ryan Day’s leadership throughout this quarterback competition will be critical. His reputation as an elite quarterback coach and offensive mind is one of the reasons Ohio State consistently fields a top-tier offense. Day’s approach to handling the competition will set the tone for the team’s success in 2025.

By being blunt and transparent about the quarterback situation, Day is ensuring that every candidate knows exactly what is at stake. He’s also fostering a competitive environment in which players are expected to prove themselves week in and week out. For Day, it’s about finding the player who can execute the offense at the highest level and lead Ohio State to another Big Ten title and potential national championship.

In the end, Day’s decision will have significant ramifications for the team’s future. The Buckeyes are built to compete for championships, and the quarterback position will be the key to their success in 2025 and beyond. Whether it’s Kyle McCord, Devin Brown, or another option, Ohio State’s next quarterback must live up to the program’s storied tradition and expectations.

The Road Ahead for Ohio State’s QB Competition

As Ohio State enters this pivotal offseason, the quarterback competition promises to be one of the most closely watched storylines. Ryan Day’s no-nonsense approach sets the stage for a rigorous and intense battle, with each candidate fighting for the privilege of leading one of the most storied programs in college football. The pressure to perform, the depth of talent in the quarterback room, and the high expectations of Ohio State’s fans will make this competition one of the most intriguing and important in the program’s history. With the right leader under center, the Buckeyes could once again find themselves competing for a national championship in 2025.