Comparing Cornelius’ First Start to Other Quarterbacks Under Gundy

Taylor Cornelius’ first career start was met with some praise, but also a fair bit of criticism.

Statistically speaking, Cornelius’ game against Missouri State ranks near the top of quarterbacks who made their first start under Mike Gundy. Cornelius, a fifth-year senior, threw more completions than any of the 11 quarterbacks making their first start since 2005. His five touchdowns are the most of anyone during that span, and his 300 yards ranks third.

There have been far worse first starts. In 2009, Alex Cate threw nine passes, none of which were completed, and an interception. In 2005, Al Pena threw four interceptions against Texas A&M.

Cornelius 35 pass attempts were the second most thrown in a first start under Gundy, trailing only Zac Robinson’s 37 in his first start against Troy in 2007. Robinson finished with 191 yards, a touchdown, two interceptions and an embarrassing loss to the Trojans.

Daxx Garman had the most yards during the span with 315, and he did so on only 16 completions. This number shows Cornelius’ willingness to check down, as he had 15 fewer yards than Garman despite having nine more completions.

First-time starters are 7-4 under Gundy with losses coming from Mason Rudolph, J.W. Walsh, Robinson and Pena.

Here’s a look at OSU quarterbacks’ first starts in the Mike Gundy era.