Though the Ohio State Buckeyes initially rolled with Cardale Jones as their starting quarterback over the first three games of the season, the fact that J.T. Barrett has had to come in each of the past two games after Jones’ struggles has shown that the team’s quarterback controversy and battle is far from over.
On top of that, coach Urban Meyer has stated that he has no idea who will be under center for Ohio State’s game against Western Michigan this weekend, leaving lots of questions surrounding the position after the team barely beat Northern Illinois 20-13 this past Saturday.
Urban Meyer still undecided on QB starter
— Joe Schad (@schadjoe) September 21, 2015
Urban Meyer asked if Cardale Jones is still likely to start. "I don't know."
— Ben Axelrod (@BenAxelrod) September 21, 2015
After listening to Urban Meyer talk 90 seconds about the QB situation. I have no idea who will start Saturday. Don't think he does either
— Matt Barnes (@Matt_NBC4) September 21, 2015
Meyer is once again in a tough position, as Barrett seemed destined to get the starter’s nod for this weekend after entering the game against NIU and completing 11 of 19 pass attempts with one touchdown and an interception. More importantly, Barrett was the team’s starter last year before breaking his ankle in the regular season finale against Michigan. Jones took over, and the rest is history.
Jones has not performed absolutely terribly this season, completing 26 of 46 throws for 334 yards, two touchdowns and three picks while also adding 115 yards and a score on the ground. Barrett, as a substitute, has made 20 of 35 pass attempts for 193 yards, two touchdowns and an interception while rushing for 65 yards on five carries. At this point, it’s essentially a coin toss as to who should start.
Whatever Meyer decides, he needs to stick with that pick as best he can. Ohio State is looking to win a second straight national championship, and a constant quarterback controversy is destined to become a distraction that won’t help team morale in the long run.
Of course, Campus Sports will update this story as it develops.
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*Featured Photo (above) credit to USA TODAY Sports
