ARLINGTON, Texas - Ohio State football's senior tight end and captain, Cade Stover, has made the decision to tough it out and play in the Cotton Bowl against Missouri on Friday night, despite dealing with a knee injury.

Stover, who had been wearing a large knee brace throughout the latter half of the season, suffered the injury and missed the November 11 game against Rutgers. However, he managed to make a comeback and played in the Buckeyes' final two regular-season games.

With the NFL Draft process looming ahead, many had anticipated Stover might step aside to focus on his recovery. Nevertheless, he has shown his determination by fully participating in practices, dressed in his uniform, during the viewing windows where reporters were present.

During practice, Stover continued to wear the brace on his right knee, but he stated on Wednesday that the injury has improved since the end of the regular season. His presence on the field is a testament to his resilience and commitment to the team.

Stover's contributions to the Buckeyes' offense this season have been exceptional. The recipient of the Big Ten Tight End of the Year award, he recorded impressive stats with 576 yards and five touchdowns on 41 receptions. Stover's remarkable performance also earned him a spot as a finalist for the Mackey Award.

Originally coming to Ohio State from Mansfield Lexington as a highly regarded top-100 prospect, Stover struggled to find his true position on the field. He experimented with linebacker and defensive end before eventually finding his niche as a tight end. Both quarterbacks C.J. Stroud and Kyle McCord have targeted and relied on him frequently over the past two seasons.

Stover's decision to play is certainly welcome news for Ohio State, as the team would have been left with limited options at the tight end position. Gee Scott Jr. would have likely taken over as the starter in Stover's absence. Freshman Jelani Thurman and third-year Sam Hart are the only other scholarship tight ends available on the roster.

In addition, backup tight end Joe Royer has recently entered his name in the NCAA transfer portal after the conclusion of the regular season, further emphasizing the importance of Stover's presence on the field.

As Ohio State prepares to face off against Missouri in the Cotton Bowl, Stover's determination to play despite his injury will undoubtedly serve as an inspiration to his teammates and fans. It is a testament to his resilience and dedication to his team, and he will undoubtedly be a key factor in the Buckeyes' quest for victory.

The match between Ohio State and Missouri in the Cotton Bowl is scheduled for Friday night, providing Stover with the opportunity to showcase his talent once again and contribute to a successful end to his collegiate career.