Kyle McCord recently voiced his support for former Ohio State wide receiver Emeka Egbuka, stating that the talented pass-catcher never received the credit he truly deserved during his time with the Buckeyes. While Egbuka was a key contributor to Ohio State’s high-powered offense, McCord believes he was often overshadowed by other star receivers.
“He’s a great player,” McCord said. “But never really was the star receiver… I never felt like he got the credit that he deserved but just produced every single year.”
Egbuka, a former five-star recruit, played alongside some of the best receivers in college football, including 2023 first-round NFL Draft pick Jaxon Smith-Njigba and Marvin Harrison Jr., a projected top-10 pick in the 2024 draft. While Harrison often dominated headlines, Egbuka remained a consistent and reliable target, quietly putting up impressive numbers.
In 2022, Egbuka had a breakout season with 74 receptions for 1,151 yards and 10 touchdowns, proving to be a dynamic playmaker. However, his production dipped in 2023 due to injuries, limiting him to 41 catches for 515 yards and 4 touchdowns. Despite the setback, he remained an integral part of Ohio State’s offense, showing his versatility and toughness.
McCord’s comments highlight the often-overlooked role of Egbuka in Ohio State’s success. While some players receive national recognition, others—like Egbuka—quietly go about their business, delivering steady performances without much fanfare. His ability to run precise routes, make tough catches, and contribute in critical moments made him invaluable to the Buckeyes.
As Egbuka prepares for the next chapter of his football career, McCord’s praise serves as a reminder of the impact he had at Ohio State. While he may not have been the face of the offense, his contributions didn’t go unnoticed by those who played alongside him. With his skill set and work ethic, Egbuka has the potential to make a significant impact at the professional level, whether or not he gets the recognition he truly deserves.
