Ohio State QB C.J. Stroud had a big message for his haters vs. Rutgers

Ohio State Buckeyes quarterback C.J. Stroud. (Vincent Carchietta-USA TODAY Sports)
Ohio State Buckeyes quarterback C.J. Stroud. (Vincent Carchietta-USA TODAY Sports) /
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Ohio State football beat up on Rutgers with quarterback C.J. Stroud answering his critics by throwing five touchdowns in a strong performance.

Don’t bury C.J. Stroud just yet.

The Ohio State quarterback answered a lot of questions on Saturday against Rutgers when he tossed five touchdowns in a 52-13 rout.

It was the most complete performance for Stroud as the Buckeyes’ starter this season. And it came at exactly the right time because he missed the game against Akron and faced calls to lose his job after rough outings against Oregon and Tulsa.

C.J. Stroud balled out for Ohio State football against Rutgers

Kyle McCord took his place last weekend and led Ohio State to victory with 319 yards and two touchdowns.

Back from a shoulder injury, Stroud retook his place atop the depth chart and made sure Ryan Day didn’t regret the decision.

Rutgers isn’t the biggest challenge Ohio State or Stroud will face this season. However, the game should be a great confidence builder for the young passer. He shouldn’t have to look over his shoulder at McCord after that performance. He can look ahead to the future knowing he’s capable of slinging it like the highly-touted recruit he was coming out of high school.

There is still plenty left to prove. The important thing is building on a mistake-free performance and quieting the doubters for at least the next week.

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