A Unique Tale of Rivalry: Howard F. Yerges Jr.’s Journey from Scarlet and Gray to Maize and Blue
Throughout the long rivalry between Ohio State and Michigan, very few people have switched sides, wearing both scarlet and gray and maize and blue at different times. Only one man has played quarterback for both teams.
Howard F. Yerges, Jr., likely never imagined he would attend anywhere other than The Ohio State University, given his family’s strong ties to the school. His father, Howard Sr., was a legendary quarterback for Ohio State, known for his leadership and strategic play. However, when Howard Jr. enrolled at Ohio State in 1943, the country was embroiled in World War II, and the Buckeyes faced challenges due to wartime restrictions.
To circumvent these restrictions, Howard Jr. enrolled in the Navy’s V-12 program, which allowed him to participate in athletics while serving. He played for Ohio State as a freshman and earned a varsity letter, despite the team’s struggles during the season. However, due to wartime eligibility rules, he transferred to Michigan in 1944 and became the starting quarterback in 1945, leading the Wolverines to victories over rivals like Minnesota and Purdue.
Howard Jr. continued to excel at Michigan, earning a starting role in 1947 and leading the team to an undefeated season, including a Rose Bowl victory and a national championship. His success in the Ohio State-Michigan rivalry mirrored that of his father, who had faced Michigan as an assistant coach at Ohio State in the 1920s.
Howard Jr.’s unique experience of playing for both Ohio State and Michigan in the storied rivalry adds an interesting chapter to its history.
