Ohio State’s Quarterback Conundrum: Is Julian Sayin the Future?
Ryan Day, head coach of the Ohio State Buckeyes, is riding high after securing a national championship. Just a year ago, his job security was in question, but now he stands as the leader of a title-winning program. However, his work is far from over. With his championship-winning quarterback, Will Howard, heading to the NFL, Ohio State now faces an open competition for the starting QB position. While several candidates are in the mix, national analysts are pointing to one name—Julian Sayin—as the clear favorite.
A Season of Change
Last season, Ohio State made a significant move by acquiring Will Howard from Kansas State through the transfer portal. The decision proved to be a masterstroke, as Howard led the team to its first national championship in a decade. However, his departure for the NFL has left a major void, and the Buckeyes must now determine who will take over as their next signal-caller.
Julian Sayin, a highly touted freshman, has already generated considerable buzz and is being viewed as the frontrunner for the starting job in 2025. His talent has even placed him under early Heisman watch. Despite this growing hype, Ryan Day insists that no decision has been made yet. “It’ll be a fierce competition,” he stated, acknowledging that Lincoln Kienholz and Tavien St. Clair are also in the running.
Analysts Favor Sayin
While the Buckeyes’ coaching staff remains noncommittal, several experts have already made up their minds. Podcast host Blake Ruffino expressed confidence in Sayin’s future role. “Until Ryan Day tells me that Julian Sayin’s not going to be the starting quarterback at Ohio State, Julian Sayin is the quarterback that I’m thinking that’s going end here,” he said.
Sayin’s journey to Columbus was unexpected. Initially committed to Alabama, he transferred to Ohio State shortly after the Crimson Tide underwent a coaching change. With Howard’s departure, the Buckeyes find themselves in a similar position as last spring when Devin Brown and Will Howard battled for the top spot.
National analyst Joe DeLeone has reviewed the tape and believes that Sayin is the best option. He pointed out how effortless Sayin’s throwing motion appears, comparing his style to former Buckeye great Justin Fields. “Like the ball just is so easy coming out of his hand,” DeLeone remarked.
A Key Player in a Loaded Offense
J.D. PicKell, an insider with On3, also sees Sayin as the best fit for Ohio State’s high-powered offense. He emphasized that the team should prioritize the quarterback who can best distribute the ball to elite wide receivers like Jeremiah Smith and Carnell Tate. With Devin Brown transferring to the California Golden Bears, the path appears even clearer for Sayin to seize the starting role.
Despite his talent, some critics remain skeptical due to his stature—standing at 6’1”, he does not fit the mold of a prototypical quarterback. However, Sayin’s quick release, precision, and composure have already earned praise from NFL scouts. Reports indicate that multiple scouts believe he has the potential to be a top-five pick in a future NFL Draft.
The Decision Ahead
With a strong supporting cast and a program on the rise, Ryan Day has a crucial decision to make. The Buckeyes hold the golden ticket—will Julian Sayin be the quarterback to lead Ohio State into the post-Will Howard era?