Cardale Jones will remain top-ranked Ohio State's quarterback Saturday against Western Michigan.
Coach Urban Meyer announced the decision following practice Wednesday, two days after hinting he was considering starting J.T. Barrett.
Jones was pulled in the second quarter of a 20-13 victory over Northern Illinois on Saturday after having two passes intercepted.
"Someone has to beat someone out," Meyer said. "You don't anoint people."
Jones led Ohio State to the national championship last season and started the first three games this season.
Barrett was 11-1 last season starting for injured two-time Big Ten player of the year Braxton Miller before breaking his ankle in the regular-season finale against Michigan.