JJ McCarthy omits eyeblack against Ohio State rival in Giants victory

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 27 Oct, 20:32 · Archive

JJ McCarthy did not wear his typical eyeblack in the Giants' overtime win over the Texans, a tradition linked to his rivalry with Ohio State.

JJ McCarthy did not wear eyeblack during the New York Giants' overtime victory against the Houston Texans on Sunday in his first start for his new team. McCarthy, who had worn eyeblack consistently throughout his high school and college careers at Michigan, developed an exception to this practice during his time with the Wolverines: he never wore it when Michigan faced Ohio State.

McCarthy's decision traces to his recruitment. He was offered by Ohio State but felt misled by head coach Ryan Day about the quarterback room's composition. After being selected at No. 10 overall by the Vikings in 2024, McCarthy told The Athletic in 2019 that he felt 'lied' to during the recruiting process. The Buckeyes went on to recruit top-ranked quarterback Quinn Ewers and four-star signal caller Kyle McCord.

McCarthy acknowledged the tradition is 'a little corny' but said he takes it personally, having grown up as 'a diehard Ohio State fan'. He completed 20 of 28 passes for 252 yards in the victory over the Texans, who were led by former Ohio State quarterback C.J. Stroud. McCarthy said the practice will continue for the rest of his career, reserved 'strictly' for Stroud, possibly McCord, and for Day if he reaches the NFL. McCarthy won all three games against Ohio State during his time at Michigan.

How it is being reported

• The ‘corny’ reason JJ McCarthy appeared a little different in his eye-opening Giants debutJ.J. McCarthy’s Ohio State grudge carried over to his debut as the Giants’ starter.New York Post · 27 Oct, 20:18
• JJ McCarthy opting not to wear eyeblack in Giants win over Texans likely linked to his hatred for Ohio StateJJ McCarthy ditched his signature eyeblack against the Houston Texans, and the reason traces back to his bitter recruiting history with Ohio State.Fox News · 26 Oct, 16:57

In this story: JJ McCarthy · Ohio State · Michigan · New York Giants · Houston Texans · Ryan Day · C.J. Stroud · Kyle McCord

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