The decision for Joe Burrow to leave Ohio State remains one of the most discussed moments in modern college football, setting the stage for a historic career. The high-stakes competition for the starting quarterback role at a top-tier program forced a choice between two immensely talented players. This pivotal moment in the spring of 2018 determined the trajectory of two careers and two major college football programs.
The Pivotal 2018 Quarterback Battle
The competition for the starting job began following the departure of four-year starter J.T. Barrett after the 2017 season. This created a significant vacancy, which was immediately contested by two highly regarded quarterbacks who had been waiting: redshirt junior Joe Burrow and redshirt freshman Dwayne Haskins. Freshman Tate Martell was also involved, illustrating the depth of the quarterback room.
The battle was intense and extended through the 2018 spring practice period. Both players pushed each other daily for reps with the first-team offense. Haskins later described the competition as “gritty,” noting that he and Burrow “couldn’t stand each other” during the nearly two-year battle for the job. The coaching staff, led by Urban Meyer and offensive coordinator Ryan Day, faced a difficult dilemma in choosing between two players performing at an extremely high level.
The Player Who Earned the Starting Role
Dwayne Haskins was the player who ultimately won the starting job, named the starter shortly after the conclusion of spring practice. The decision was heavily influenced by Haskins’ specific skill set, which aligned with the program’s evolving offensive philosophy. Haskins possessed superior arm strength and was considered a more natural, traditional pocket passer, capable of effortlessly launching the ball downfield.
Haskins also had a significant advantage due to his clutch performance in the 2017 rivalry game against Michigan. When J.T. Barrett suffered a knee injury in the third quarter, Haskins entered the game with the Buckeyes trailing 20-14 and led a season-saving comeback. He completed six of seven passes for 94 yards and rushed for 24 yards, demonstrating poise and accuracy under extreme pressure. This high-leverage performance against a top defense gave him a tangible edge in the eyes of the coaching staff.
Burrow, despite his strong performance in the 2018 spring game, was relegated to the backup role for the upcoming season. Having already spent three years in the program, he realized that remaining as the backup was not an option for his career goals. His desire to play immediately led him to seek a starting position elsewhere, prompting his decision to transfer.
Burrow’s Path to LSU
Immediately following the decision to name Haskins the starter, Burrow announced his intention to transfer from Ohio State in May 2018. Having already graduated from Ohio State with a degree in consumer and family financial services, he was eligible to transfer as a graduate student. This status was crucial, as it allowed him to play immediately at his new school without having to sit out a season.
Burrow quickly chose Louisiana State University (LSU) and was named the starting quarterback for the 2018 season. In his first year with the Tigers, he led the team to a 10-3 record, including a victory in the Fiesta Bowl. He finished the season with 2,894 passing yards and 16 touchdowns, setting the stage for future success.
The following year, his 2019 season became one of the most statistically dominant in college football history. Burrow threw for 5,671 yards and 60 touchdowns, completing a remarkable 76% of his passes, leading LSU to a perfect 15-0 record. He was awarded the Heisman Trophy and capped the season by leading the Tigers to a National Championship. This historic run solidified the magnitude of the 2018 Ohio State quarterback decision for both programs.