Buckeyes QB Cardale Jones Says Jalin Marshall Will Be His Backup Against Oregon

Ohio State Buckeyes freshman Jalin Marshall is a jack of all trades for Urban Meyer, taking on a Percy Harvin-like role for the team as a playmaker no matter what role he's thrust into.

Now, according to an interview starting QB Cardale Jones had with reporters on Saturday morning, Marshall will add backing quarterback to his resume' when the Buckeyes take on the Oregon Ducks in Monday's National Championship Game.

Marshall is more than up to the task.

"Our coaches have prepared me well, and have prepared the team well if we do need to put me in the game at quarterback," Marshall said. "It's nothing that I want to do. I'd rather stay where I am and win the game, but if I have to do that, I'll think we'll be alright."

The Buckeyes have increased Marshall's role in the running and passing games over the past seven contests, and it's already paying dividends for OSU's dynamic offensive attack. In addition to catching 33 balls for 447 yards and a touchdown, Marshall has also rushed 23 times for 142 yards and a score.

With his athletic versatility playing a key role for the Buckeyes already in his freshman year, it's only fitting that the coaches trust him as Jones' backup in case of emergency.

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