Hours after winning the national championship, Ohio State backup quarterback announces transfer decision.

Devin Brown is now looking to be the top guy.

On Monday night, the Ohio State quarterback sat on the sideline during the Buckeyes' national title celebration, having backed up Will Howard throughout the season.

Earlier Tuesday, Brown announced that he would be transferring to Cal.

Despite entering the transfer portal in December, Brown remained with the Buckeyes and helped them win the national championship on Monday night against Notre Dame.

Brown's tenure with the Buckeyes was tumultuous because he served as the backup to two different QBs in two consecutive seasons. In 2023, he lost a close competition to Kyle McCord, and in 2024, he was replaced by Kansas State transfer Will Howard.

In the 2023 Cotton Bowl Classic, Brown made his lone start for the Buckeyes, but had to leave the game due to an injury. He played in nine games this season, with most of his action occurring during garbage time.

Jaron-Keawe Sagapolutele and Brown are expected to compete for the starting job at Cal, with Brown having two years of eligibility remaining.

Monday night, Howard was named offensive MVP after going 17-for-21 through the air for 231 yards and two touchdowns. Although his time with the Buckeyes has ended, former five-star recruit Julian Sayin is expected to start in 2025, which may have motivated Brown to consider leaving the program.

In its first season in the ACC, Cal went 6-7. Brown was ranked No. 81 in ESPN's Top 300 recruits for the class of 2022.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

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