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C.J. Stroud produced video-game numbers during brilliant second-half performance in season opener
By Rolando Rosa
Published:
It took a half for C.J. Stroud to warm up. But man, when he did, it was a sight to behold.
The new Ohio State quarterback was red hot after halftime in the 45-31 season-opening victory at Minnesota. Stroud racked up an eye-popping five completions for 236 yards and four touchdowns in the second half.
Your reminder that CJ Stroud had 5 completions for 236 yards and 4 TDs in the 2nd half last night pic.twitter.com/wmredR0Wia
— PFF College (@PFF_College) September 3, 2021
Stroud’s four touchdowns were 38, 56, 70, and 61 yards respectively. Talk about the definition of chunk plays.
Stroud showed resilience after only 58 yards and an interception in the first half. It was a strong first impression for the highly touted redshirt freshman as he follows in the footsteps of Chicago Bears’ first-round pick Justin Fields.
Stroud arrived at Ohio State as a 4-star quarterback, the nation’s No. 2 pro-style quarterback, No. 4 overall prospect in California and No. 42 recruit in the nation, according to the 247Sports Composite Rankings.
Next up for Ohio State is a home contest vs. Oregon on Sept. 11 (12 p.m. EST/FOX).
Rolando Rosa brings his experience covering college football to Saturday Tradition. Follow him on Twitter @RolandoRosa3.