Urban Meyer never coached Justin Fields when he was the Head Coach of the Ohio State Buckeyes. He was only involved in the recruiting process. But from that alone, he could tell just how tough Fields was.
That toughness was on display in the Sugar Bowl against the Clemson Tigers. After taking hit after ferocious hit, Fields continued to get up and perform. On The Dan Dakich Show Thursday, Coach Meyer told DD that’s just part of the Buckeye QB’s DNA.
“He’s a no-nonsense hard worker and also turned out to be a great leader during this COVID stuff,” Meyer said. “Now you add the warrior stripe to him plus the God-given talent he has, and that’s pretty incredible.”
As much as Fields is improving his draft stock, the jump from even Clemson to Alabama talent is staggering. The Crimson Tide have three Heisman Trophy capable players on one offensive unit in Mac Jones, Devonta Smith, and Najee Harris. Smith ended up taking the award home this week.
For Coach Meyer though, one part of Ohio State’s game sticks out as potentially being a game changer.
“I think if Ohio State’s offensive line plays like they did against Clemson then they’re going to have a chance to win,” Meyer explained. “Because in turn Fields will have a good day. You need to have balance against a team like Alabama. You can’t say we’re going to throw 50 times or else you’ll get beat.”
Fields has one more opportunity in his college career to show the pro scouts what he can really do. But on the other sideline is the Crimson Tide’s own gunslinger Jones. He’s trying to impress scouts too. Because of the pure talent on Alabama’s roster, Jones tends to get faded out a little bit.
But 36 touchdowns and 4 interceptions with over 4000 passing yards speaks for itself.
“Jones’ accuracy and leadership is incredible,” Meyer added. “I worry about his ability to get out of a bad play though. A quarterback that can’t get out of trouble is an issue. But this kid’s got everything else. I’ve heard so much about him with his toughness. But at a higher level when talent becomes equated, he won’t have the personnel advantage like he has at Alabama. Everything else is an A+”
This is going to be fun. Two all-time great college quarterbacks, a matchup of young vs veteran in the coaching department, and offensive weapons that can absolutely fly.
Kickoff on Monday night from Hard Rock Stadium in Miami is set for 8 PM.
