Marvin Harrison Jr.'s status for Cotton Bowl confirmed
Marvin Harrison Jr. will officially not play in Friday’s Cotton Bowl, Ohio State confirmed ahead of kickoff.
When the pre-game availability report was released, Harrison was listed as out for the game. Starting linebacker Tommy Eichenberg, a defender who battled injuries down the stretch, is also out for the matchup with Mizzou.
Harrison’s status has ben a topic of conversation throughout the week. He was spotted at practice but inactive for the media portion of the session, causing many to assume he would not play.
However, offensive coordinator and wide receivers coach Brian Hartline was coy in his response to the topic. Ryan Day was more direct but no less clear on the matter during his press conference.
There’s no overstating the impact Harrison has made while at Ohio State, including his 2023 season. He has over 2,600 receiving yards in his career with 32 total touchdowns and averaged right at 17 yards per catch. Harrison was also crowned the Biletnikoff Award winner this year as the top receiver in all of college football.
It’s worth noting Harrison has not confirmed any plans for the 2024 NFL Draft, but not playing in Friday’s Cotton Bowl is likely another big indication of his playing future. If this is it for Harrison, he leaves as one of the legendary receivers in Buckeye history.