Cardale Jones says he will be back at Ohio State next season

The only story that comes close to Ohio State's unlikely run to the national championship game might be what happens with their quarterback situation next season. The Buckeyes are down to their third QB, Cardale Jones, but haven't missed a beat on the field, as Ohio State has summarily dispatched Wisconsin and the mighty Alabama in back to back games.

With two-time Big Ten player of the year Braxton Miller, and the record breaking J.T. Barrett both slated to come back, many had speculated that Jones, a redshirt sophomore, would be the most likely transfer candidate. At a press conference ahead of Ohio State's showdown against Oregon though, Jones put those concerns to bed, saying he would will definitely be back at Ohio State next season.

Jones, who has thrown for 618 yards, six touchdowns and a single pick this season, would have to sit out a year if he transferred to another FBS program. Earlier, Pete Thamel, one of the most connected national reporters to the Ohio State braintrust, said that he thought all three quarterbacks staying would the most likely outcome for next year's QB derby.

With both Miller and Barrett injured and missing spring game, Jones will have his chance to strengthen his grip on the starting job next season.