It is quite rare for any current or former Michigan coach to say anything positive about an Ohio State player, but head coach Jim Harbaugh sure sees much potential in quarterback C.J. Stroud.
Over the past month, Stroud has continued to bolster his resume for the 2021 Heisman Trophy award. Overall, Stroud has recorded 36 passing touchdowns, which is tied with Pittsburgh quarterback Kenny Pickett for the fourth-most in the FBS this season. Thirteen of Stroud's passing touchdowns have come in the Buckeyes' last three games, which include six in the statement win over the then-No. 7 ranked Michigan State Spartans.
Harbaugh has been much impressed with Stroud's play in his first season as the starting quarterback for Ohio State, which he opened up about during a press conference ahead of the upcoming showdown between the Buckeyes and Wolverines.
“Yeah, phenomenal,” Harbaugh said. “C.J. is a fantastic player. He’s doing — we saw it in high school when he played. Knew he was gonna be really good and he’s bringing it all to life. Playing great.”
It sure must sting for Harbaugh to watch Stroud shine with Ohio State, especially as he recruited the quarterback in 2019 and even hosted him for an official visit.
In the big picture, a standout performance from Stroud in his first career start against Michigan would once again up his 2021 Heisman Trophy award resume. More so, he sure will have much pressure to extend Ohio State's winning streak over Michigan to nine games.
From Michigan's perspective, a win over Ohio State is needed in order to possibly move into the top-four in the College Football Playoff rankings. In essence, the stakes are at an all-time high for both powerhouse teams.
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