J.J. McCarthy’s Unique Game Day Ritual and Rivalry

J.J. McCarthy guided the New York Giants to a thrilling overtime victory over the Houston Texans. This was his debut game as the starting quarterback for the Giants.

What caught attention more than the win was McCarthy’s decision to take the field without his signature eyeblack. The absence of eyeblack is usually unnoticed, yet it carried significance for McCarthy.

Throughout his career, McCarthy has consistently worn substantial eyeblack, beginning in high school at IMG Academy and continuing during his three seasons with Michigan. However, there was a notable exception during his college years. McCarthy never wore eyeblack when playing against Ohio State.

New York Giants quarterback J.J. McCarthy (18) looks on before facing the Houston Texans at Reliant Stadium. Credit: Thomas Shea-Imagn Images

His strong aversion to Ohio State stems from his recruitment experience. Despite being offered by Ohio State in high school, McCarthy felt misled by head coach Ryan Day about his role in the team. This dissatisfaction intensified his rivalry with Ohio State.

Instead, McCarthy joined Michigan and achieved a 3-0 record against the Buckeyes. He relished the opportunity to outperform them, stating his desire to prove his skills after feeling misled.

His no-eyeblack choice in the game against the Texans likely had personal significance. Houston’s quarterback, CJ Stroud, attended Ohio State but never defeated McCarthy’s Michigan team.

Given Stroud’s history with Ohio State, it appears McCarthy’s decision excluded eyeblack as a subtle reminder of their rivalry.

McCarthy’s choice was more than a game day ritual; it was a symbol of his competitive spirit. His performance against the Texans reinforced his commitment to succeed beyond his collegiate rivalries.