The NCAA granted a waiver to quarterback Tate Martell for the 2019 college football season. Martell transferred from the Ohio State Buckeyes to the Miami Hurricanes mere weeks after challenging Justin Fields to a quarterback duel. Once Fields joined the Buckeyes in a transfer of his own, Martell rescinded his bluff and ran to the ACC.
However, it was taking a long time for the NCAA to make a verified decision. By all accounts, Martell should have missed the season due to normal transfer rules. Yet, he will have every opportunity to win the starting job in the fall. Clearly, Martell is the leader in the clubhouse, so he will be the No. 1 quarterback unless something unforeseen happens.
According to Hurricane Sports, they are happy with the decision to let Martell play in the upcoming season. Here is their statement on the NCAA’s decision-
“We are pleased with this ruling and appreciate the NCAA recognizing that this waiver met the criteria under the membership established guidelines,” Director of Athletics Blake James said. “We would like to thank the NCAA, as well as Ohio State University, for their assistance and support throughout the waiver process. We look forward to seeing Tate compete for the Hurricanes this season.”
Martell spent two seasons on the Buckeyes’ campus, including his redshirt year season in 2017. He played sparingly last season behind future 2019 first-round draft choice Dwayne Haskins. Martell completed 23 of 28 passes for 269 yards and 1 touchdown in six appearances last season. He also became part of the goal line offense for the Buckeyes at various points during the year. Martell ran the ball 22 times for 128 yards and 2 touchdowns.
Yet, the Buckeyes were more enamored with the prospects of bringing Fields in to compete for the starting job. Once he arrived on campus, Martell opened up his options. The Hurricanes became his new football home and now he will lead them onto the field immediately.
Right now, it’s joyous time in Coral Gables, Fl. However, the honeymoon will be over quickly if Martell doesn’t lead the program to major wins. The Hurricanes open the season on Aug. 24 against the Florida Gators. That seems like a perfect way to usher in your Hurricanes’ career.
