As Drake Maye prepares to take the field for his highly anticipated first start, he’s not only stepping into the spotlight but also shouldering the expectations that come with being a young quarterback in the world of college football. Someone who knows all too well about these pressures is former Ohio State standout and current Houston Texans quarterback, C.J. Stroud.
Stroud, who experienced a similar rise through the ranks during his time in college, recently shared his thoughts on the challenges Maye is likely facing. His words offer both encouragement and understanding for the North Carolina quarterback, who is expected to be a major player in the 2024 college football season.
Stroud’s Own Experience with Pressure
C.J. Stroud burst onto the scene as a starting quarterback for the Ohio State Buckeyes, where he dealt with the immense pressure of playing for a national powerhouse program. Now in the NFL, Stroud looks back on his college career with a deep understanding of what Maye is about to experience.
“Being a quarterback at this level, especially when it’s your first start, it’s tough,” Stroud said in an interview. “There’s pressure from every angle—fans, coaches, teammates, and even yourself. But the key is to stay focused on what you can control. Don’t let the noise around you get in your head.”
Stroud emphasized the importance of mental toughness, something he developed over his time at Ohio State. He believes that Maye, who has already shown flashes of brilliance, has the potential to thrive if he can manage the psychological aspect of the game.
High Expectations for Maye
Drake Maye enters his first start as one of the most talked-about quarterbacks in the college football world. As a redshirt sophomore for the North Carolina Tar Heels, he’s been widely regarded as a future NFL prospect, drawing comparisons to some of the game’s greats. With such high expectations, Maye’s performance will be closely scrutinized by both fans and analysts.
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While the hype surrounding Maye has built steadily, it’s clear that he’s more than just a prospect on paper. His physical tools—size, arm strength, and mobility—have already drawn rave reviews from scouts. But as Stroud pointed out, it’s how Maye handles the mental challenges that will truly determine his success.
“You can have all the talent in the world, but at the end of the day, it’s about keeping your head in the game,” Stroud said. “Drake’s got the talent, no doubt, but the mental side is what separates the good from the great.”
Advice from a Seasoned Pro
In offering advice to Maye, Stroud focused on the need to trust the process. Having dealt with the pressure of playing in front of packed stadiums and living up to the expectations of a top-tier program, Stroud knows the importance of patience and perseverance.
“I would tell Drake to trust his preparation,” Stroud said. “You’ve done the work, you’ve put in the time—now it’s about going out there and executing. Mistakes will happen, but the key is how you bounce back. Don’t let one bad play turn into a bad game.”
Stroud’s advice reflects the wisdom he’s gained from his own experience as a young quarterback. He emphasized the importance of staying grounded, relying on the support system around him, and blocking out the external noise.
The Road Ahead for Maye
As Drake Maye prepares for his first start, he carries not only the weight of expectations but also the hope of North Carolina fans who believe he could lead their team to new heights. With the backing of experienced voices like C.J. Stroud and the talent to succeed, Maye is set to embark on what could be a defining moment in his career.
The pressures may be high, but with the right mindset and preparation, Maye has the potential to make his mark on the college football world—just as Stroud did before him.
