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Paul Finebaum Names College Football Playoff Team Elite at 'Every Position But Quarterback'

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Jaron Spor | Last updated Dec 18, 2024 8:00 AM ET

Nearly every college football team is influenced by the transfer portal or seeks assistance from it each season to strengthen their roster.

Similarly, the No. 8 Ohio State Buckeyes (10-2) were no exception. They secured the top recruiting class based on player averages, attracting standout prospects like running back Quinshon Judkins and safety Caleb Downs. However, they needed to address the quarterback position after their starting quarterback, Kyle McCord, opted to transfer to the Syracuse Orange. In 2023, McCord threw for 3,170 yards, with 24 touchdowns and six interceptions for the Buckeyes.

The Buckeyes secured Kansas State Wildcats quarterback Will Howard through the portal. During "The Paul Finebaum Show," SEC Network analyst Paul Finebaum suggested that this acquisition could limit Ohio State's success this season.

"I think they have elite talent, probably every position but quarterback," Finebaum said. "That has been where they have a pedestrian player. They probably let go a better quarterback than what they have. They have it everywhere else."

Howard achieved 2,860 passing yards, 27 touchdowns and eight interceptions, with a completion rate of 72.3%. In contrast, McCord had an impressive season for the Orange, throwing for 4,326 yards, 29 touchdowns and 12 interceptions while completing 65.8% of his passes. His excellent performance propelled Syracuse to a 9-3 record, the most wins the team has seen since 2018.

Despite the quarterback change, Ohio State still has a chance at the national championship, starting their journey Saturday at 8:00 p.m. ET on ABC against the No. 9 Tennessee Volunteers (10-2).

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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