Former Ohio State QB Kyle McCord admits mixed emotions watching the Buckeyes win a national championship after transferring, balancing pride in teammates with personal disappointment.

In college football, every player dreams of hoisting a national championship trophy. For Kyle McCord, that dream came true—but not in the way he once envisioned. As the confetti fell on Ohio State’s triumphant national title celebration, McCord watched from afar, no longer in a Buckeye uniform. Having transferred after the 2023 season, the former Ohio State quarterback found himself grappling with complex emotions: pride for his former teammates, but also the undeniable sting of personal what-ifs.

In a recent interview, McCord broke his silence about Ohio State’s title run, offering rare insight into the mindset of a competitor watching his former team reach the pinnacle of the sport without him. His words were honest, nuanced, and reflective of a journey marked by ambition, transition, and introspection.

A Promising Start in Scarlet and Gray

McCord arrived at Ohio State in 2021 as one of the most touted quarterbacks in the country. A five-star recruit from Philadelphia’s St. Joseph’s Prep, McCord was expected to continue the Buckeyes’ quarterback tradition following the likes of Justin Fields and Dwayne Haskins. He possessed a polished arm, sharp football IQ, and composure beyond his years.

After two seasons backing up C.J. Stroud, McCord earned the starting job in 2023. Under head coach Ryan Day, he navigated a season filled with pressure and expectation. While there were flashes of brilliance—particularly his rapport with superstar receiver Marvin Harrison Jr.—there were also growing pains, including a loss to rival Michigan that ended the Buckeyes’ playoff hopes.

Despite throwing for over 3,000 yards and 24 touchdowns, McCord’s future in Columbus grew uncertain. With a new wave of quarterback talent coming in and the fanbase divided on his performance, McCord made the decision to enter the transfer portal.

The Decision to Transfer

For McCord, leaving Ohio State was not taken lightly.

“I gave everything I had to that program,” McCord said in the interview. “But sometimes, you have to make a decision that’s best for your career, your future. I wanted a fresh start, and I wanted to lead a team where I could grow into the role fully without the constant comparisons or pressure of a quick hook.”

Ultimately, McCord transferred to Syracuse, reuniting with former Ohio State staffers and bringing veteran experience to a rebuilding program. The move was seen as a strategic step—an opportunity for McCord to refine his game outside the national spotlight.

“I left with no hard feelings,” he emphasized. “Ohio State shaped me, and I’ll always be proud of my time there.”

Watching the Buckeyes Reach the Summit

Months after McCord’s departure, the Buckeyes retooled. With a revamped offense and elite defense, they surged through the 2024 season, defeating Michigan, winning the Big Ten, and rolling through the College Football Playoff. The national title game—a dramatic, come-from-behind victory over Georgia—marked Ohio State’s first championship since 2014.

For McCord, watching it unfold was surreal.

“I’ll be honest—it was bittersweet,” he admitted. “There was part of me that was incredibly proud. I know how hard those guys worked. I know what it takes to get there. But at the same time, it hurt. Because I wanted to be part of that run. I dreamed about being the quarterback who led Ohio State to a national title.”

He paused. “But sometimes, the game has other plans.”

Support from Afar

Despite the emotional complexity, McCord made it clear he never stopped rooting for his former teammates.

“Marv, Emeka, TreVeyon—those guys are like brothers to me,” McCord said. “I was cheering for them every step of the way. I’d send a text after games, just letting them know I was proud. No bitterness. Just respect.”

Former teammates echoed that sentiment. In post-game interviews, several Buckeyes mentioned McCord’s continued support throughout the season.

“He’s a real one,” said wide receiver Emeka Egbuka. “Even after transferring, he stayed in touch. He wanted the best for us. That says a lot about who he is.”

Learning and Growth at Syracuse

At Syracuse, McCord has embraced a leadership role, working closely with young receivers and a new coaching staff. He’s focused on refining his footwork, deep-ball accuracy, and in-game decision-making. But more than that, he’s grown off the field—mentally tougher, more self-aware, and deeply motivated.

“When you leave a place like Ohio State, it forces you to reevaluate,” McCord said. “You ask yourself: Who am I without the logo? What do I want out of this game? For me, I’ve realized that it’s not just about rings or awards—it’s about the journey, the relationships, the person I’m becoming through football.”

A Legacy in Perspective

While some might view McCord’s story as one of missed opportunity, he sees it differently.

“I got to play for one of the best programs in college football. I started in the Michigan game. I threw touchdown passes in the Horseshoe. Those are moments I’ll carry with me forever.”

And while he wasn’t on the field for the Buckeyes’ championship run, McCord still feels a connection to it.

“I was part of the build. I helped lay the groundwork. I competed with those guys, trained with them, pushed them. And in some way, I feel like I contributed to that title—even if I wasn’t there for the final step.”

What Comes Next

With two years of eligibility remaining, McCord isn’t done chasing his dream. He aims to lead Syracuse to new heights, prove doubters wrong, and eventually make his case for the NFL.

“There’s still a lot of football in front of me,” he said. “And I’m hungrier than ever.”

His message to aspiring quarterbacks? “Bet on yourself. The path won’t always be linear. You’ll face adversity. But if you stay true to who you are, you’ll find your way.”

The Bigger Picture

In a sport often defined by wins and losses, McCord’s story offers something deeper: a reminder of the human side of college football. Behind every stat line is a young man learning to navigate pressure, expectation, and change.

Kyle McCord didn’t get his national title ring at Ohio State. But in embracing his journey—with humility, resilience, and perspective—he’s earning something far more valuable: respect.

And if his future unfolds the way he hopes, that ring might still be in reach—this time, on his own terms.