Justin Fields has 'something to prove' after being named starting quarterback for Ohio State

COLUMBUS, Ohio - When Ohio State coach Ryan Day named Georgia transfer Justin Fields his new starting quarterback Monday, he noted the expectations for Fields "are almost ridiculous."

Day ought to know.

"It's the same thing as being coach of Ohio State," Day said. "That's what you sign up for. You are here for a reason."

Day faces the pressure of following coach Urban Meyer, who had a record of 83-9 in his seven seasons at Ohio State, including a 7-0 mark against rival Michigan. Fields has to fill the shoes of Dwayne Haskins, a first-round draft pick of the Washington Redskins who may start as a rookie.  

"I think we both have something to prove," Fields said. "But the whole team has something to prove."

While it has been anticipated that Fields would start since he signed with Ohio State in January, Day indicated that he only recently earned the job.

"Justin kind of separated himself this week," Day said of the competition with Kentucky transfer Gunner Hoak.

The move is a decision that Day had to make because Fields is an extraordinarily talented player, a game-breaker, considered one of the top recruits in the country when he signed with Georgia in 2018.

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Asked to describe Fields, Ohio State co-captain K.J. Hill: "I put him in the Cam Newton category. He has wheels on him. He can fly. He can open it up for receivers. Plus, you have to worry about his arm."

The Buckeyes had a dominant passing quarterback last season in Haskins, who threw for a school-record 50 touchdowns. Fields could end up being more dangerous because he adds a running dimension. Fields rushed for 266 yards and passed for 328 yards in limited playing time behind Jake Fromm at Georgia last season.  

"He has all the talent in the world throwing the ball," said co-captain Jordan Fuller said.  "But what he can bring when the play breaks down is the big X-factor."

Day said Monday the Ohio State offense will look similar to what the Buckeyes did last season. But that is difficult to imagine. If Fields looks comfortable running the offense, the Buckeyes will take advantage of his running ability. If defenders are worried about his ability to scramble, it makes pass defense that much more difficult.

Fields is only 20, but he is anything but raw. The only question is whether he is far enough along in his development, and whether he has the intangibles to guide the team. 

Day said Fields is showing signs of developing into the leader the team needs its quarterback to be.

"I've seen him take control, challenge guys," Day said. "I've seen him go put him arm around guys."

Day said all that Fields' designation as a starter means is that he will take the first snap in the opener, Aug. 31 against Florida Atlantic. "Where it moves from there who knows," Day said.

While saying Fields has made progress, Day said Fields isn't yet where he needs to be.

"Coming out of the spring, Justin had a good feel for the offense, but certainly was no where near ready to be the starter," Day said. "After the first week (of fall practice), he really wasn't there. He made some mistakes. Turned the ball over. But just now he is starting to scratch the surface. I think he has earned the job."

Fields seemed to agree with his coach's assessment. "I feel like have to improve on everything," Fields said. "I am not where I need to be."

Even if that is true, he is still the right choice to start. Sitting on the bench won't help him improve.