In the landscape of college football, Ohio State University (OSU) has long been one of the most powerful programs, consistently contending for national championships. Their storied history includes numerous Big Ten titles, prestigious bowl victories, and a National Championship in 2014. However, as OSU looks to add another national title to their trophy case, one person seems to be standing between them and their ultimate goal: the opposing team’s quarterback.
Quarterbacks are often called the most important players on the field, and in the case of Ohio State, one quarterback stands out as a pivotal figure in the potential roadblock to their championship dreams: Michigan’s J.J. McCarthy. McCarthy, the dual-threat quarterback for the Michigan Wolverines, has emerged as one of the top quarterbacks in the nation, and his performance against OSU in the final game of the regular season could be the defining moment of the entire college football season.
The rivalry between Ohio State and Michigan is one of the oldest and fiercest in all of sports, and this year’s edition of “The Game” is no exception. Ohio State entered the 2024 season with high expectations, boasting a talented roster and a dynamic offense led by their own star quarterback, Kyle McCord. However, it was McCarthy’s play and Michigan’s collective resilience that posed the greatest threat to OSU’s hopes of making the College Football Playoff and ultimately securing a national championship
McCarthy, a junior from the Chicago area, has been nothing short of stellar for Michigan this season. His ability to make plays with both his arm and his legs has made him a nightmare for opposing defenses. His deep ball accuracy, combined with his vision and poise in the pocket, make him one of the most dangerous quarterbacks in the country. McCarthy’s athleticism allows him to extend plays with his legs, something that poses a significant challenge for OSU’s defense.
In the 2023 season, McCarthy led Michigan to a dominant win over Ohio State in the regular-season finale, a game that effectively handed Michigan the Big Ten Championship and secured them a spot in the College Football Playoff. In that game, McCarthy threw for over 250 yards, including multiple crucial long touchdown passes, and rushed for key yards to move the chains. The Wolverines’ ability to control the game through McCarthy’s dynamic play was a major factor in OSU’s defeat. The Buckeyes simply couldn’t find a way to stop McCarthy when it mattered most, allowing him to run rampant and dictate the pace of the game.
Ohio State’s ultimate goal in 2024 remains to capture another national championship, but McCarthy’s performance against OSU is a critical hurdle in their path. As the Buckeyes look ahead to the College Football Playoff, their matchup against Michigan has loomed large, with the result of the game serving as the determining factor for OSU’s season. If Ohio State can overcome McCarthy and the Wolverines in their rivalry game, they will likely move on to the playoffs with a strong chance at making a deep run. However, if they fall short again, their chances at a national championship could be dashed for another year.
The key to Ohio State’s success against Michigan may lie in their defensive strategy against McCarthy. OSU’s defense, traditionally one of the most feared in the nation, has had mixed results this season. While their front seven has shown flashes of dominance, their secondary has sometimes been vulnerable to big plays. To defeat McCarthy, OSU will need to create pressure in the pocket, disrupt his timing with receivers, and avoid allowing him to escape the pocket and make plays with his legs.
In addition, OSU’s offense will need to capitalize on their opportunities. McCord, Ohio State’s quarterback, has been solid but will need to elevate his game in this high-stakes matchup. With weapons like Marvin Harrison Jr., one of the best wide receivers in college football, OSU has the talent to score quickly and in bunches. However, to have a chance at a championship, they will need to balance their attack and remain patient while not giving McCarthy the opportunity to control the game.
In 2024, one person may be standing between Ohio State University and their national championship aspirations: Michigan’s J.J. McCarthy. His dual-threat abilities, composure under pressure, and ability to perform in critical moments have made him a formidable opponent for the Buckeyes. As OSU gears up for a potential rematch with Michigan in the Big Ten Championship and beyond, all eyes will be on McCarthy as the player who could determine Ohio State’s fate. If Ohio State can find a way to neutralize McCarthy and win when it matters most, they will put themselves in a prime position for a national title. However, if McCarthy continues his dominant play, Ohio State’s path to glory will be even more challenging. The rivalry between Ohio State and Michigan is as intense as ever, and it could be McCarthy’s performance that ultimately decides who stands tall at the end of the season.