Jim Karsatos, a distinguished former quarterback for the Ohio State Buckeyes, passed away on February 8, 2025, at the age of 61. His death followed a recent hospitalization due to a heart condition.

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Early Life and Education

Born on May 26, 1963, in Fullerton, California, Karsatos was of Greek-American descent, with roots tracing back to the island of Kefalonia. He attended Sunny Hills High School in Fullerton, where he began to showcase his talent in football.

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College Career at Ohio State

Karsatos joined the Ohio State University football team in the early 1980s. After redshirting in 1981 and 1982, he served as a backup to quarterback Mike Tomczak during the 1983 and 1984 seasons. In 1985, Karsatos assumed the starting quarterback role, leading the Buckeyes with notable performance:

• Completed 158 of 254 passes (62.2% completion rate)

• Accumulated 2,115 passing yards

• Threw 19 touchdowns and 8 interceptions

His leadership culminated in a victory over Texas A&M in the Cotton Bowl. The following year, in 1986, Karsatos continued his impressive play:

• Completed 135 of 251 passes (53.8% completion rate)

• Totaled 1,927 passing yards

• Recorded 13 touchdowns and 8 interceptions

He guided the team to a 10-3 record and another bowl victory, this time over BYU in the Citrus Bowl. Over his two seasons as a starter, Karsatos amassed 4,698 passing yards and 36 touchdowns, leaving a lasting impact on the program.

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Professional Pursuits

In the 1987 NFL Draft, Karsatos was selected by the Miami Dolphins in the 12th round (No. 322 overall). He spent three years with the Dolphins, primarily as a backup to Hall of Famer Dan Marino, though he did not see regular-season play.

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After his football career, Karsatos transitioned into the financial sector, founding the Karsatos Financial Network in Columbus, Ohio, in 2003. His firm provided financial advisory services, and he was recognized for his professionalism and expertise.

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Personal Life

Karsatos was married to Susan Helen Lynch Hosket, who passed away in 2019 at the age of 50 after battling breast cancer.

Dignity Memorial

They had three sons: Nicholas, Christopher (C.J.), and Daniel.

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Legacy and Tributes

The Ohio State football community mourns Karsatos’s passing, remembering him as a talented quarterback and dedicated leader. His contributions to the team’s successes in the 1980s remain a significant part of the program’s history.

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Former teammates and fans have expressed their condolences, highlighting Karsatos’s impact both on and off the field. His commitment to excellence and his role in Ohio State’s football legacy continue to be celebrated.

Conclusion

Jim Karsatos’s journey from Fullerton, California, to leading Ohio State as a quarterback exemplifies dedication and achievement. His legacy endures through the memories of his performances and the positive influence he had on those around him. As the Ohio State community reflects on his contributions, Karsatos’s story serves as an inspiration to future generations.