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2017 NFL Draft stock report: J.T. Barrett rising despite loss

By George Stockburger

Oct 15, 2016; Madison, WI, USA; Ohio State Buckeyes quarterback J.T. Barrett (16) throws a pass during warmups prior to the game against the Wisconsin Badgers at Camp Randall Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 15, 2016; Madison, WI, USA; Ohio State Buckeyes quarterback J.T. Barrett (16) throws a pass during warmups prior to the game against the Wisconsin Badgers at Camp Randall Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports /
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Oct 15, 2016; Madison, WI, USA; Ohio State Buckeyes quarterback J.T. Barrett (16) throws a pass during warmups prior to the game against the Wisconsin Badgers at Camp Randall Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 15, 2016; Madison, WI, USA; Ohio State Buckeyes quarterback J.T. Barrett (16) throws a pass during warmups prior to the game against the Wisconsin Badgers at Camp Randall Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports /

J.T. Barrett, QB, Ohio State: Stock Up

Ohio State was able to hold off an underrated Wisconsin defense in overtime to remain undefeated through six games. Barrett led the Buckeyes down the field on their final offensive drive to tie the game up at 23 apiece. An overtime touchdown pass by Barrett to Noah Brown would seal the victory and help the Buckeyes retain their second-overall ranking.

The loss to Penn State on the road does not reflect where Barrett stands with NFL talent evaluators. His offensive line provided zero protection, the defense struggled to make plays late, and special teams opportunities collapsed. While the upset win by the Nittany Lions reflects poorly on Barrett, you can not place the loss solely on his shoulders.

Ohio State attempted a field goal late in the fourth quarter, which would have put them up 24-17 with less than five minutes remaining. Instead, the kick was blocked and returned for a touchdown by Penn State. Barrett was sacked on the final two plays, and felt his first loss of the season.

Since retaining his job thanks to the departure of Cardale Jones to the NFL, Barrett has been one of the most consistent quarterbacks in college football. This season he has thrown for over 1,400 yards with a 63.2 completion percentage. His 17 passing touchdowns rank first among Big Ten quarterbacks, and his impressive completion percentage sits second behind Maryland quarterback Perry Hills.

Barrett has one more year of eligibility remaining, but with a national championship already secured, there may not be much left for him to accomplish. The Buckeye could easily throw his hat into the NFL Draft ring with potential names such as DeShaun Watson, Deshone Kizer, Brad Kaaya, and Mitch Trubisky.

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