I figured this board needed a topic to stir up debate.

Isn't that problematic going into the Purdue game? I don't think rolling out two QB's against a surprisingly good Big Ten team is the best idea. One is a thrower and one is a runner. Pretty much announcing your intention based on which guy is in there. I've never liked the 2 QB system and I don't think it works against competent teams, which is why Ohio hasn't won a big game since TT who was versatile

I'm sure they will use the QB's differently against Purdue. Against Hampton, they used second and third string players at every position, not just QB.

In any case, Maxwell is not just a passer, he had 320 yards rushing last year. Also, Rourke is not just a runner. His high school passing stats were unreal, unlike Maxwell, who did not throw much or particularly well in high school. I think Rourke is behind Maxwell primarily because he is still fairly new to Ohio. This is his first season of Ohio football.

I think both QBs are going to continue to improve as the year goes out, and I have no idea who will be on top by the end of the year. I think either one can get the job done. That said, I did like the way Rourke ran the ball. He seems to have a knack for not getting hit, which bodes well for his future health.

Rourke look MUCH better running the option. Not even close.

I like both....but for some reason I like Rourke better. He seems to have IT...whatever IT is.

Agreed! What impressed me most were Rourke's poise and decision-making.

There is no controversy, just solid coaching. Not getting your #2 snaps in a blow out v. a horrible opponent would be poor coaching. Maxwell is your guy! Rourke maybe a more "mobile" (doesn't mean better runner). but this is Maxwell's team and he's earned it. No doubt of the work ethic of Rourke, he's proven that with his path to OHIO and Division I football, but there is much he's not seen or been exposed to.

Since I started this thread, I will add my opinion.

Rourke's "It factor" is that is his ability to make plays scrambling. In the Solich era, there really has been no QB other than Tettleton who could be called a playmayker at the position.

I think the coaching really wants Maxwell to be the man (I would too). Solich gave Windham a rather quick hook last year and was remarkably patient with Maxwell. Maxwell's arm potentially makes him a "playmaker" because it gives the team the ability to stretch defenses. He is big and sturdy. He also runs (including the option) very well. If he reaches his full potential, this team is in really, really good shape.

Solich loves playing the #2 guy in non-conference games. Let's see how effective Rourke is scrambling against more athletic linebackers. If he continues to look good, I would expect Maxwell on shorter lease (although not as short as Windham's was last year).

The good news in all of this is that both of these guys are sophomores that could be playmaking difference makers and that is a lot better than what the team has had for the past few years.

Could be a little of both. They weren't at home though, it was a neutral site game. Jeff Brohm is a great coach and will turn them in the right direction. Plus, LSU gave everyone a pretty good blueprint on how to slow down Lamar Jackson and the Louisville offense in the bowl game last year. This will be a tough game for Ohio next week.