One of Ohio State’s top standouts through the first three days of fall camp is already developing a strong connection with the Buckeyes’ starting quarterback.
Senior wide receiver Devin McCuin has emerged as one of the offense’s top performers during the open-to-the-public portion of Ohio State’s fall camp, drawing the attention of starting quarterback Julian Sayin.
“He’s a really, really talented receiver,” Sayin said. “(He has) a lot of speed. He’s a very smart player, knows where he’s going, he’s in the right spot. And he’s a guy who’s willing to block for us and go do the dirty work and make plays, so he’s done some good things.”
Carnell Tate’s leap to the NFL left a massive opening in Ohio State’s starting lineup — one that UTSA transfer Devin McCuin is now leading the race to fill.
McCuin has positioned himself at the front of the pack for the vacant starting role alongside returning anchors junior Jeremiah Smith and senior Brandon Inniss, who are expected to return as Ohio State’s No. 1 outside receiver and slot wideout, respectively.
The 6-0, 195-pound receiver will be in competition with fellow transfer Kyle Parker of LSU, sophomores Phillip Bell and De’Zie Jones, as well as a handful of talented freshmen including Chris Henry Jr., Brock Boyd and Jerquaden Guilford.
McCuin has showcased his elite speed and athleticism while making several acrobatic grabs through the Buckeyes’ first three days of preseason camp, including a one-handed, over-the-shoulder catch in the corner of the end zone on a pass from Sayin.
Sayin noted that McCuin has made an impact in several areas, praising him for leading by example both on the field and in the weight room.
“I think he’s done good things since he’s been here. He’s a hard worker. He’s somebody who a lot of players notice in the weight room. He’s a guy who gets after it and is about the team, and the team is first with him. He’s somebody we’re lucky to have on offense.”
Despite Sayin’s high praise, McCuin will still need to continue making plays throughout camp to separate himself from a crowded group of contenders for the starting role opposite Smith.
