After a year, Kyle McCord, Ohio State’s quarterback, transfers to Syracuse.
Kyle McCord, a former Ohio State quarterback, informed ESPN that he has committed to Syracuse, citing the pool of talent that incoming coach Fran Brown is assembling.
McCord, who left Ohio State after being 11-1 as a starter this season and 12-1 over his three-year tenure, was among the best quarterbacks available through the transfer site. He completed 65.8% of his passes this season, finishing with 24 touchdowns and six interceptions.
He will be eligible for benefits immediately and for another year. Syracuse’s acquisition of him is a coup since it provides Brown with a foundation upon which to develop in his rookie campaign.
According to ESPN Stats & Information, McCord is the highest-ranked player—No. 31 in the Class of 2021 rankings—to pledge to Syracuse since the network started keeping track of recruiting rankings in 2006.
McCord is well-connected to Syracuse personnel. He was raised in New Jersey and has spent ten years getting to know Nunzio Campanile, the quarterbacks coach, as well as Brown. Additionally, he is well acquainted with Jeff Nixon, the anticipated offensive coordinator who is wrapping up his tenure as the running backs coach for the New York Giants.
McCord told ESPN, “I think the coaching staff’s experience is really crucial.” It played a significant role in my choice. Simply being in an environment where talented players can surround me. They have made significant progress on the portal trail, attracting players from Georgia and other states. When you take all of things into account, it becomes a desirable location.”
Brown is the foundation of his beliefs; he took Dino Babers’ place. Syracuse’s early efforts to upgrade their talent through the transfer portal have been praised by McCord.
McCord stated, “What Coach Fran has been able to accomplish in the last few weeks since taking over as head coach speaks loudly.” “I believe everything is fitting together perfectly at this moment.”
McCord wants to get ready for the National Football League. He admitted that during his portal process, he concentrated on areas where he could achieve because he only had one year of eligibility remaining.
“After going through the process, I looked at colleges where I’d have a chance of winning right away,” he said. “I have one more chance to go out and fully devote myself.” “And with everything happening there, I’ll have that choice for sure.”
He claimed that he was drawn to Nixon because of his long NFL career—more than 10 years at several league locations—and Baylor’s playcaller under Matt Rhule.
Nixon was praised by McCord for “being varied [on offence] and being able to sling the ball over the field and put up points.” “Everywhere he has gone, he has done it.”
One of the biggest surprises of the college football offseason was McCord’s inclusion in the portal. He finished 11-1, with his lone defeat coming at the hands of Michigan in the last week.
He expressed his gratitude for the time and knowledge he had with the Buckeyes.
Regarding Ohio State, McCord remarked, “I think the greatest thing is starting a whole season there.” “I participated in a lot of important games, played a lot of football, and learned a lot. That was a worthwhile experience. For me, being able to bring that with me to Syracuse will be extremely useful. That’s really helpful to have in my pocket and to know what I need to work on right now.
McCord is acquainted with the roster as well. He revealed to ESPN that he is acquainted with New Jersey-born Syracuse athletes Denis Jaquez Jr., a defensive lineman, and Alijah Clark, a defensive back. On his formal visit to Syracuse over the weekend, he also mentioned that he knew several of the recruits via the portal.
McCord remarked, “just being around a bunch of people I played football with growing up.” “I’ve known these coaches for a very long time. Everything seemed to be happening at the perfect moment.”
