Disastrous performance finally ends discussion regarding Kyle McCord's transfer decision for Ohio State
While it's not something anyone would like to admit, it's only natural for fans to continue paying attention to players who have transferred away from their favorite program. There's no ill will for most Ohio State fans toward former quarterback Kyle McCord, and Buckeye fans have plenty to look forward to throughout the rest of […]
While it's not something anyone would like to admit, it's only natural for fans to continue paying attention to players who have transferred away from their favorite program. There's no ill will for most Ohio State fans toward former quarterback Kyle McCord, and Buckeye fans have plenty to look forward to throughout the rest of the 2024-25 season.
But some wondered whether Ohio State head coach Ryan Day should've pushed harder to keep McCord from transferring to Syracuse. Thursday night answered any questions about whether McCord would've been good enough to stay in Columbus as a starter.
McCord produced a disastrous game, tossing five interceptions, including three pick-sixes, and sacking himself to end the game. It was one of the worst displays of quarterbacking I've ever seen.
Although McCord attempted 64 passes, completing 35 for 321 yards, he buried the Orange in the first half with his turnovers. Pitt led 31-0 at half time, with three of their four touchdowns coming on interceptions.
Pitt did well to clog passing lanes and apply pressure to McCord, who has some of the worst performance under pressure stats in the nation over the last two years. Where he struggled with the Buckeyes is where he lost this game, which is maintaining poise and accuracy when under slight duress.
This self-sack was just a sad ending to their offensive performance, and even the announcers didn't want to add to the embarrassment.
On the season, McCord has completed 63.6 percent of his passes for 2,481 yards, 19 touchdowns, and 11 interceptions. His yards per attempt has plummeted from 9.1 in 2023 to 7.2. Syracuse has asked a ton of him, as he's leading the nation in completions and attempts.
McCord had a good response to the adversity after the game.
It's a tough outing for someone doing his best against a very good Pitt team. McCord is super likable, even if he's not the most talented passer. Hopefully, not only can he bounce back, but Ohio State fans can be glad they're in different hands with Will Howard steadying the ship a little more effectively.
