The Ohio State football family is mourning the loss of former starting quarterback and sideline reporter Jim Karsatos.
Karsatos, who spent six seasons with the Buckeyes in the 1980s, died on Sunday, a family member confirmed to Bucknuts. He was 61. A native of Fullerton, Calif., Karsatos had reportedly been living in San Diego and was hospitalized for a heart condition before his death.
Karsatos arrived at OSU in 1981 and was a medical redshirt in his first season. After redshirting again in 1982, he backed up future NFL quarterback Mike Tomczak in 1983 and 1984.
In 1985, Karsatos took over as the Buckeyes’ starter. He completed 62.2% of his passes for 2,115 yards, 19 touchdowns and eight interceptions in his first season as QB1, leading Ohio State to a 9-3 record and Citrus Bowl win over BYU.
The following year, Karsatos served as a co-captain, completing 53.8% of his passes for 1,927 yards, 13 touchdowns and eight interceptions. After an 0-2 start, Ohio State won nine straight games before dropping a heartbreaker to Michigan in the regular season finale.
With the Wolverines off the Rose Bowl, the Buckeyes had to settle for a trip to the Cotton Bowl, where they blew out Texas A&M 28-12. Ohio State finished the season ranked No. 7 in the AP poll.
After leaving OSU, Karsatos was a 12th round selection of the Miami Dolphins. He was with the organization for three years but did not appear in a regular season game.
Following his playing days, Karsatos returned to Columbus and became a financial advisor and planner. He also served as a sideline reporter for several years with the Ohio State Football Radio Network.
Karsatos is survived by his three adult sons, Nick, C.J. and Danny.
We would like to extend our condolences to his friends and family during this difficult time.
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