**Howard Sends Clear Message on Ohio State’s Quarterback Replacement: A New Era Begins**
As the Ohio State Buckeyes continue to navigate the post-C.J. Stroud era, all eyes are on who will replace the star quarterback who led the team for two seasons and helped solidify their spot as one of college football’s elite programs. With a fanbase hungry for another championship run and a new chapter in the program’s rich history of quarterbacks about to unfold, Ohio State head coach Ryan Day is making it clear who he believes is capable of stepping into those massive shoes.
In a recent statement, Day, along with Ohio State’s new quarterbacks coach, Corey Dennis, firmly laid out their expectations for the upcoming season and the QB competition that will determine who will take the helm for the Buckeyes in 2025. Their comments sent a clear and confident message: Ohio State’s quarterback position remains a crucial focal point in the program’s pursuit of another national title, and the competition to replace Stroud will not be a simple decision.
### The Transition from C.J. Stroud
C.J. Stroud’s departure has left a sizable void at Ohio State. In his two years as the starting quarterback, Stroud was not only one of the most productive QBs in the country but also the face of the offense. He amassed over 8,100 passing yards, threw 85 touchdowns, and led Ohio State to the College Football Playoff in back-to-back years. His leadership, poise, and ability to make all the throws made him a top draft pick, selected second overall by the Houston Texans in the 2023 NFL Draft.
However, the Buckeyes’ success under Stroud was not solely due to his talent but also because of a system built to foster QB excellence. Head coach Ryan Day is widely regarded as one of the top offensive minds in college football, and his system has a reputation for developing quarterbacks into high-caliber NFL prospects. With Stroud moving on, Day is now tasked with finding the next leader of the Buckeyes.
The team has a handful of talented candidates vying for the position, but the decision is complicated by the fact that the program has seen significant turnover in the position. Ohio State has recruited some highly touted quarterbacks in recent years, and each of them brings their own skill set to the table. The challenge for Day and his staff will be to assess which player can best execute the offense, manage the pressure of playing at a premier program, and lead the team with the same success as Stroud.
### The Candidates: Who’s in the Mix?
Several players are considered strong contenders for the starting quarterback role heading into the 2025 season, each bringing different qualities to the table that could be advantageous for the Buckeyes.
1. **Kyle McCord**: A redshirt sophomore, McCord is a name that has long been associated with the starting quarterback competition at Ohio State. He was a highly rated recruit out of high school, and his experience with the program under the guidance of Ryan Day has given him a strong foundation. McCord spent time as Stroud’s backup, gaining valuable in-game experience during blowouts and mop-up duties. While he hasn’t had a chance to be a full-time starter yet, McCord has shown flashes of the arm strength, poise, and field awareness needed to thrive at Ohio State.
2. **Devin Brown**: A true freshman and highly-touted recruit, Devin Brown is an exciting prospect who has already been turning heads in spring practices. With an impressive high school resume, including being named the 2022 Gatorade Player of the Year in Utah, Brown has a reputation for being an explosive playmaker who can make all the throws. His athleticism and mobility could add an exciting dimension to Ohio State’s offense, but as a first-year player, it would be a significant jump for him to take over as the starter immediately. Still, he is one to watch closely as he competes for the job.
3. **Tristan Gebbia**: A transfer from Oregon State, Gebbia is an experienced quarterback who brings leadership and maturity to the competition. Though he has not seen significant starting action in college football, his years in the Oregon State program have prepared him for this moment. Gebbia’s accuracy and ability to read defenses make him a steady and reliable option, though some question whether he has the elite physical tools necessary to lead the Buckeyes’ high-powered offense.
### Ryan Day’s Approach to the Competition
One of the most telling aspects of Ryan Day’s comments about the quarterback competition is his insistence on fostering an environment where no one is guaranteed the role. Day emphasized that the competition will be open and that every quarterback on the roster will have a legitimate shot at starting. In a recent press conference, Day said, “The quarterback position is one of the most important spots on the team, and we’re going to make sure that we have the best player out there when the season starts. It’s going to be a competitive process, and we’re excited about the options we have.”
Day’s words suggest a level of transparency and fairness in the competition that has become a hallmark of his coaching style. He has built his program on the notion of earning your spot, and that philosophy will continue with the quarterback battle. By keeping the competition open, Day is not only motivating his players but also allowing them to showcase their skills in practice and in the lead-up to the 2025 season.
### The Importance of the Quarterback Position at Ohio State
The quarterback position at Ohio State carries with it an immense amount of pressure. The Buckeyes are among the most prestigious programs in college football, with a rich history of success and championships. The quarterback is often seen as the face of the program, responsible for not only leading the offense but also handling the spotlight that comes with playing for one of the most popular and successful teams in the country.
For the next starter, this means stepping into a role that is both highly coveted and highly scrutinized. Whoever wins the job will be expected to lead the team to the College Football Playoff and compete for a national championship. Ohio State fans expect nothing less than excellence, and the team’s success on the field largely depends on the ability of the quarterback to execute Day’s offensive scheme.
With such high expectations, Day and his coaching staff are keenly aware of the importance of getting this decision right. That’s why Day’s message regarding the quarterback competition is so clear: he will take his time to ensure that the right person is chosen for the role. Whether it’s McCord, Brown, Gebbia, or someone else entirely, Day is committed to making the decision based on who gives the Buckeyes the best chance to succeed.
### What’s Next for Ohio State’s Quarterback Battle?
As spring practice progresses, the quarterback battle at Ohio State will undoubtedly become one of the most closely watched storylines in college football. Fans, analysts, and coaches will all be keeping an eye on how the players perform in practice, during scrimmages, and in any public exhibitions. The competition will likely continue into the summer, with the eventual starter emerging as the team prepares for its opening game of the season.
What is certain is that Ohio State has the talent, coaching, and infrastructure to continue its dominance in the Big Ten and on the national stage. The quarterback that emerges from this competition will be stepping into a position that carries tremendous responsibility, but it will also be an opportunity to write a new chapter in the program’s storied history.
In the end, Ryan Day’s clear message is that the search for the next Ohio State quarterback is not just about finding a player who can fill Stroud’s shoes—it’s about finding a player who can lead the Buckeyes to the next level of success. With the talent available and the guidance of one of the best offensive minds in the game, the future of Ohio State football remains bright, no matter who ends up under center.
