Ohio State quarterback Kyle McCord looks to pass during a game against Minnesota at Ohio Stadium - Adam Cairns / USA TODAY NETWORK
With the transfer portal heating up, the Nebraska Cornhuskers are set to host two key players for a visit. Those players are quarterback, Kyle McCord, and wide receiver, Justin Fleming. What do both of these players have in common? They are both transferring out of a fellow school in the Big Ten, Ohio State.
Kyle McCord’s 2023 Season
McCord’s first year as the starting quarterback for Ohio State will also be his last. Following the loss against Michigan, McCord entered his name in the transfer portal. McCord is not a bad quarterback, but after the loss against Michigan, it became clear that Ohio State is not where he will continue to play. Ohio State’s final regular season record is 11-1.
In 2023, McCord had 229 completions out of 348 attempts for 3,170 yards, according to Sports Reference. He also had 24 passing touchdowns compared to just six interceptions. These are strong stats, but not enough to make the College Football Playoffs this season.
Justin Fleming’s Time at Ohio State
Fleming has been with Ohio State for a couple of years but has been overshadowed by stars, such as Marvin Harrison Jr. Fleming was a part of every game this season, and has been with the team for four years. This season Fleming had 26 receptions for 270 yards and no touchdowns, according to Sports Reference. Fleming transferring to a school where he will get more playing time is a smart decision.
If it Happens, What’s the Impact on Nebraska?
Nebraska is not in the best quarterback situation. The Cornhuskers started three different players this season. Their final regular season record is 5-7. Last season, Iowa acquired former Michigan quarterback, Cade McNamara in the transfer portal from Michigan. While McNamara did not last the full season due to injury, this is a big reason Iowa ended first in the West, aside from a powerful defense. The same could happen for Nebraska if they acquire McCord.
On top of that, whether it be due to the quarterback position or not, no Nebraska receiver reached 500 yards this season. According to ESPN, Billy Kemp IV is the team’s leading receiver in 2023, totaling 310 yards. If they are able to acquire both McCord and Fleming, the Nebraska offense can really open up. The two players will already have chemistry together. Nebraska and Ohio State will face each other in October 2024 as well, which could be a potential revenge game for these two players. Nothing is official yet, it is just a visit, but this is something to keep an eye on.
