Ohio State QB C.J. Stroud won't start against Akron due to shoulder injury

Ohio State quarterback C.J. Stroud will not start Saturday's game against Akron and will likely only play in an "emergency situation," Buckeyes head coach Ryan Day told 97.1 The Fan Thursday, according to WNBS-TV in Columbus. 

Stroud has been nursing a shoulder injury all season but has taken every snap through Ohio State's first three games. He is widely regarded as one of the best college quarterbacks in the nation and has led the Buckeyes to a 2-1 record this season. The team's only loss came to Oregon earlier this month. 

Stroud has completed 62.4% of his passes for 963 yards and eight touchdowns against three interceptions this year. He's looked uncomfortable at times, and it could be because of his shoulder. 

The 19-year-old admitted after last week's win over Tusla that the shoulder injury was causing him pain. He has frequently been seen flexing the shoulder and has seen many of his throws miss high. 

With Stroud not expected to play against the Zips, true freshman Kyle McCord or redshirt freshman Jack Miller will start. Day never officially named a backup quarterback.

McCord has a "strong arm" and is accurate, according to 24/7 Sports national recruiting analyst Brian Dohn. He is also poised under pressure, a great leader and accurate when throwing on the run. He projects to be an early-round NFL draft pick. 

Miller was a four-star recruit out of Arizona. He has a decently strong arm, but his biggest asset is his decision-making, per 24/7 Sports. He can also throw the deep ball well 

Whoever fills in for Stroud has big shoes to fill, but it appears Day is confident either player can get the job done.