Ohio State football coach Urban Meyer has a difficult decision to make at quarterback, but the leading candidates agree that an outright winner of the competition is best.
According to ESPN’s Austin Ward, J.T. Barrett and Cardale Jones believe that a two-quarterback system wouldn’t be ideal due to the potential difficulty of finding a rhythm under center.
Barrett: “I don’t think it would be as efficient. I did that in high school and switched every series … and that’s kind of tough to do being that you can’t get into a rhythm, get a real vibe off the defense. I don’t think it would be the best idea.”
Jones: “I don’t think it’s a great idea. I don’t think you could get in a rhythm. In a two-quarterback system, if I run three plays and run off the field and J.T. runs out for a drive, I don’t know how well that would work with rhythm and timing with guys. Only one of us can play.”
Barrett noted an important point though, saying if any coach can make it work, Meyer is that guy. Because, well, that’s undeniably true.
Back in 2006, Chris Leak and Tim Tebow propelled the Meyer-coached Florida Gators to a 41-14 national championship victory over Ohio State. Barrett would play a Leak-like pass-first role, while Jones would imitate Tebow’s power-run contributions.
Put simply, a rotation might not be ideal for the quarterbacks, but that doesn’t mean it wouldn’t be successful. The Buckeyes are a clear favorite for the College Football Playoff, no matter who is under center.