COLUMBUS, Ohio — The Ohio State Buckeyes have added another intriguing piece to their quarterback room, landing a transfer commitment from former Missouri State quarterback Eli Brickhandler. The veteran signal-caller announced his decision to join the Buckeyes via social media on Sunday, bringing a new layer of depth and experience to a room already brimming with talent and competition.
Brickhandler, who spent three seasons at Missouri State, made his mark as a reliable and dynamic quarterback in the Missouri Valley Football Conference (MVFC). Standing at 6 feet 1 inch and weighing around 195 pounds, Brickhandler brings athleticism, leadership, and a dual-threat ability to Ohio State’s roster — all qualities that could prove valuable as the Buckeyes continue to solidify their depth chart heading into the 2025 season.
His addition comes at a time when the Buckeyes are navigating a critical transitional phase at the quarterback position. With the graduation of Kyle McCord and the continued development of Devin Brown, Lincoln Kienholz, and true freshman Air Noland, Ohio State is placing an emphasis on both competition and contingency. Brickhandler’s arrival adds a mature presence to the mix, and while he may not be a frontrunner for the starting job, he offers stability, experience, and an insurance option that could be critical during the long grind of a Big Ten season.
Brickhandler began his college career as a walk-on at Missouri State in 2021 but steadily climbed the depth chart through hard work and poise. By 2023, he had become a key contributor, making several appearances and even starting games during the season. Known for his mobility and football IQ, Brickhandler passed for over 1,100 yards and accounted for 12 total touchdowns during his time with the Bears. While those numbers may not rival elite Power Five statistics, his efficiency, leadership, and toughness stood out in a competitive FCS league.
His move to Columbus underscores a growing trend in college football: Power Five programs seeking seasoned FCS or Group of Five quarterbacks to provide depth and mentorship in increasingly complex quarterback rooms. Brickhandler fits that mold perfectly — a high-character player with game experience who is unlikely to transfer again and can be a steadying influence both on the field and in the locker room.
Ohio State head coach Ryan Day has not publicly commented on the addition yet, but insiders suggest that the Buckeyes were looking to add a quarterback with game reps and maturity — someone who could step in if needed and also help develop younger QBs. Brickhandler, who still has eligibility remaining, is expected to enroll at Ohio State this summer and participate in offseason workouts.
The Buckeyes’ quarterback battle remains one of the most closely watched competitions in college football. Devin Brown, a former four-star recruit, is widely expected to begin fall camp with the first-team reps, but Lincoln Kienholz and Air Noland are both talented and pushing hard. Brickhandler’s experience could give the coaching staff peace of mind in the event of injuries or unexpected struggles.
Fans may remember a similar situation in 2021 when the Buckeyes brought in graduate transfer Chris Chugunov, a former West Virginia quarterback who served in a backup role and was praised for his preparation and mentorship. Brickhandler could fill a similar role, providing veteran presence and embracing the “next man up” mentality without disrupting team chemistry or quarterback development.
Off the field, Brickhandler is also known for his leadership and work ethic. Coaches at Missouri State often praised his dedication in the film room and his rapport with teammates. These intangibles make him a strong cultural fit at Ohio State, where the standard is as high as anywhere in the nation.
In the rapidly shifting landscape of college football, where depth and flexibility are more important than ever, the addition of Eli Brickhandler gives Ohio State another option in the quarterback room — one with experience, maturity, and a clear understanding of his role.
With fall camp just a few months away, all eyes will be on the quarterback rotation in Columbus. Whether or not Brickhandler sees significant playing time, his presence could prove vital in ways that extend far beyond the stat sheet.
