In the quarterback rankings for Ohio State's quarterbacks, known as Tier 3, Hale highlights the experience and consistency of the four QB1s in this group. With a combined total of 119 games started and 217 passing touchdowns thrown, these quarterbacks bring a wealth of knowledge and leadership to the team. However, the question remains whether we have truly seen all that they have to offer or if they can still surprise us in the upcoming 2024 season.

Among the returning qualified quarterbacks, the four quarterbacks in Tier 3 placed solidly within the B+ category. Last season, they finished in the top 20 in Total QBR rankings, indicating commendable performances on the field. While this consistency is praiseworthy, it may feel like an insult for quarterbacks hoping to achieve greater success and win prestigious awards.

Hale suggests that there is a possibility for at least one or two quarterbacks from this group to take a significant step forward in the upcoming season. Drawing parallels to success stories like Joe Burrow, though perhaps not at the same level, there is potential for these quarterbacks to exceed expectations. One promising candidate for improvement is Howard, who had a lower percentage of throws to wide-open receivers compared to his counterparts. If Howard can improve his accuracy in these situations, his stats and overall record could surprise fans in 2024.

In a separate development, former Ohio State quarterback C.J. Stroud made headlines by sharing his top-five quarterbacks list from the previous season, during an appearance on the "Million Dollaz Worth of Game" podcast. Stroud listed Patrick Mahomes, Lamar Jackson, himself, Dak Prescott, and Jalen Hurts in his original ranking. However, he later updated his list on Instagram, switching the order.

Stroud's confident inclusion of himself in the top five sparked discussions among fans and analysts. Rather than questioning Stroud's position, the debate centered around whether Prescott deserved to be grouped alongside Mahomes, Jackson, Stroud, Josh Allen, and Hurts. Stroud, having won the NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year award last season, boasts impressive statistics, including a 63.9% completion rate, 4,108 passing yards, 23 touchdowns, and only five interceptions. He led the Houston Texans to a successful regular season and playoff victory.

Looking ahead to 2024, Stroud returns to the Texans with new talent surrounding him. The addition of Pro Bowler Joe Mixon at running back and All-Pro wide receiver Stefon Diggs, along with the arrival of former Buckeye teammate Cade Stover, is expected to elevate Stroud's performance even further. Stover, who made a noteworthy impression at the Texans' OTA sessions, is already garnering praise from veteran tight end Dalton Schultz. Schultz expressed his excitement about mentoring Stover and commended the rookie's work ethic and catching abilities.

Stover, who had an impressive college career with Ohio State, accumulating 82 receptions, 1,058 yards, and 10 touchdowns, aims to build on his success at the next level. With Stroud as his quarterback and Schultz as his mentor, Stover is poised to thrive in Houston according to Texans GM Nick Caserio. Caserio praised Stover's toughness, work ethic, and overall dedication to the game.

As the 2024 season approaches, the Ohio State quarterbacks in Tier 3 bring a combination of experience and potential surprises. While their consistency has placed them in a commendable category, fans eagerly anticipate the possibility of these quarterbacks taking their performances to the next level. With the addition of new talent and promising rookies, including Cade Stover, expectations are high for an exciting and successful season for Ohio State's quarterbacks.