But as is often the case, this time C.J. Stroud wasn't surrounded by five-star talents. While most of Ohio State's offensive skill players are so highly touted that fans of the program know their names as high school sophomores, the two teammates flanking the star QB in this instance were relative unknowns, despite having already earned their bachelor's degrees.
Mitch Rossi, a 5th-year former walk-on tight end and the closest thing Ohio State has had to a traditional fullback in a decade, lined up just a few feet to Stroud's right. On his left was Xavier Johnson, a fellow 5th-year senior and special teams ace who was a complete unknown for many fans until his late-game touchdown catch in the opener against Notre Dame.