The three-man Ohio State quarterback battle just got much more interesting. Quinn Ewers, the No. 1 overall prospect in the Class of 2022, has reclassified to the Class of 2021 and will enroll in school this month. Ewers will join the battle that includes includes redshirt freshmen C.J. Stroud and Jack Miller, as well as freshman Kyle McCord.
It was revealed last week that Ewers, a 6-foot-3, 206-pounder from high school football factory Southlake Carrol High School in Southlake, Texas, had been considering re-classifying in order to capitalize on the NCAA's new name, image and likeness rules that allow players to earn money while retaining college eligibility.
"Over the past few weeks, following Texas' UIL informing me I would be prohibited from profiting off of my own name, image and likeness, I've taken time to think about what lies ahead of me, both in the short- and long-term," Ewers wrote on Twitter. "It's unfortunate I've found myself in this situation, as my preference would have been to complete my senior season at Southlake Carroll along with the teammates and friends I've taken the field alongside for the past three years. However, following conversations with my family and those I know have my best interests in mind, I've decided it's time for me to enroll at Ohio State and begin my career as a Buckeye."
This is huge news for a Buckeyes team that is looking to replace two-year starter, Heisman Trophy finalist and first-round draft pick Justin Fields. Ewers threw for 6,445 yards, 73 touchdowns and only eight interceptions during his final two seasons of high school football despite missing six games during the 2020 season. He also added 701 rushing yards and eight touchdowns on the ground over the last two seasons.
Gabe Brooks, midlands region recruiting analyst for 247Sports, filed this scouting report on Ewers -- who is now officially the top prospect in the 2021 class instead of 2022.
"Good height with a plus frame," Brooks wrote. "Pro-style QB with athleticism and mobility that qualify for a dual-threat label. Elite improvisational QB who can extend plays and remain accurate on the move. Throws with a smooth, easy delivery and varies arm angles as needed. Impressive velocity and spin rate really show on routes over the middle and down the seams. Field-stretching vertical arm strength to consistently hit big plays over the top. Also shows encouraging touch on timing patterns and downfield routes that require it. Good runner by design or scramble.
"Understands how to protect himself as a runner and minimize shots. Shows encouraging pocket presence and awareness. Senses pressure and knows how to react to it. Also willing to stand and deliver under duress and will take a big shot if it means hanging in there to make the necessary throw. Occasionally will take risks, but that also is part of what makes him so good. Release quickness is good in general but could still quicken a bit at times. Elite QB prospect at the top of the 2022 cycle, at his position and across the board. Future impact high-major starter with long-term potential to be taken high in the NFL Draft."
Ohio State will begin fall camp on Tuesday. It's unclear if Ewers will be on campus in time to participate at that time, although it appears that he will be ready to go at some point this month.
