Kyle McCord with career-best four touchdowns in first start for Syracuse

Marvin Harrison Jr. and Kyle McCord were close friends that had a long history together.

When the former left for the NFL, the latter departed as well, whether by choice or by the fact that Ohio State was primed to bring in a star transfer to contend for that starting quarterback spot.

Nonetheless, McCord took his talents to Syracuse, which opened its series with Ohio University at home Saturday. McCord threw for four touchdowns, the best of his career in his first game not playing for the scarlet and gray.

The Buckeyes 2023 starting quarterback managed at least three touchdowns in five games last season but never quite got that fourth as Ohio State had a terrific ground game to rely upon.

The Orange won the game 38-22 over Ohio at JMA Wireless Dome in Syracuse, New York. McCord ended with 354 yards on 27-of-39 passing.

He also had an interception. Starting down 6-0 after the first 15 minutes, McCord was able to right the boat and ended up 17-9 at the half before an explosive last two quarters.