Ohio State Quarterbacks: A History of Excellence

From Chic Harley to C.J. Stroud: A Rich Legacy of Signal-Callers

The Ohio State Buckeyes football program has a long and illustrious history, and its quarterbacks have played a pivotal role in the team's success. From Chic Harley to C.J. Stroud, Ohio State has produced some of the greatest quarterbacks in college football history.

Early Years: Chic Harley and Les Horvath

The early years of Ohio State football were marked by the dominance of Chic Harley, who led the Buckeyes to their first national championship in 1942. Harley was a gifted runner and passer, and he set numerous school records during his time in Columbus. Another standout from this era was Les Horvath, who won the Heisman Trophy in 1944.

The Woody Hayes Era: Rex Kern and Roger Staubach

Under legendary coach Woody Hayes, Ohio State continued to produce top-flight quarterbacks. Rex Kern led the Buckeyes to an undefeated season and a national championship in 1954, while Roger Staubach won the Heisman Trophy in 1963.

The Earle Bruce Era: Art Schlichter and Jim Karsatos

The Earle Bruce era was another golden age for Ohio State quarterbacks. Art Schlichter was a record-setting passer who led the Buckeyes to the Rose Bowl in 1980. Jim Karsatos was another standout quarterback who helped Ohio State win the Big Ten championship in 1984.

The Jim Tressel Era: Troy Smith and Terrelle Pryor

Under Jim Tressel, Ohio State continued to churn out elite quarterbacks. Troy Smith won the Heisman Trophy in 2006, and Terrelle Pryor was a dynamic playmaker who led the Buckeyes to a national championship in 2009.

The Urban Meyer Era: Braxton Miller and J.T. Barrett

Urban Meyer's tenure at Ohio State was marked by the emergence of Braxton Miller and J.T. Barrett. Miller was a versatile quarterback who could run and pass with equal effectiveness. Barrett was a steady and reliable leader who helped the Buckeyes win a national championship in 2014.

The Ryan Day Era: Justin Fields and C.J. Stroud

Justin Fields was one of the most dynamic quarterbacks in college football history. He led the Buckeyes to the College Football Playoff in 2019 and 2020. C.J. Stroud is the latest in a long line of great Ohio State quarterbacks. He won the Big Ten Offensive Player of the Year award in 2021 and led the Buckeyes to the College Football Playoff.

Ohio State's quarterbacks have played a major role in the team's success over the years. From Chic Harley to C.J. Stroud, the Buckeyes have had a rich legacy of signal-callers who have helped the team win championships and achieve greatness.