The quarterback battle in Columbus, Ohio is over. Ryan Day has handed the keys to Julian Sayin, who will lead Ohio State into the season opener against Arch Manning and Texas. For a program built on championships, this marks the start of a new era.
Sayin separated himself in camp by showing consistency, poise, and command of the offense. As Day said, “he separated himself over the last week with his consistent play.” That’s exactly what Buckeyes fans want to hear heading into 2025.
We’ve only seen glimpses of him in live action—12 throws last season for 84 yards and a touchdown—but even in that small sample, the talent was obvious. And it’s not just Ohio State coaches who believe in him. Texas head coach Steve Sarkisian, who once recruited Sayin, called him a “gifted passer … elite arm talent, very quick release, really accurate guy.”
Sayin’s Role in the Offense
Day’s system is built for quarterbacks who can deliver the ball on time, attack vertically and avoid turnovers. Sayin is tailor-made for that role.
He moves well enough to escape pressure, extend plays and punish defenses when they get too aggressive. His mission is clear: get the ball to Ohio State’s playmakers and protect possessions.
Sayin’s Strengths
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Accuracy and quick release: Sayin has a lightning-fast release and pinpoint precision. Whether from the pocket or off-platform, he makes difficult throws look routine.
Anticipation and timing: He consistently throws receivers open, putting the ball away from coverage and in stride. That ability to deliver into tight windows is rare.
Pocket awareness and poise: Sayin doesn’t take costly sacks and thrives under pressure. He can create something out of nothing while staying locked on his reads.
Key Pieces
This isn’t a rebuild—it’s a championship offense. Sayin steps into an offense that’s already loaded.
The wide receiver room is the most dangerous in college football, led by Jeremiah Smith and Carnell Tate. The offensive line brings size and experience, while the backfield provides balance and toughness. Simply put, Sayin inherits everything he needs to succeed.
Short-Term and Long-Term Impact
In the short term, naming Sayin the starter gives the Buckeyes stability. The extra camp reps will sharpen him for the Texas opener, a primetime showdown with Manning.
Long term, if Sayin produces as expected, he won’t just keep Ohio States’ offense humming—he’ll put himself in the NFL Draft conversation. It also further cements Day’s reputation as one of the premier quarterback developers in college football.
Challenges
Championship expectations always bring pressure. Two things will decide Ohio State’s ceiling: starting fast and finishing strong, and how quickly Sayin meshes with the offense. If the Buckeyes hit their stride early, they’ll be the team to beat once again.
Bottom Line: Ohio State Will Go Back-to-Back
Sayin has the skills and leadership to lead Ohio State’s offense. Surrounded by elite receivers, guided by Day and offensive coordinator Brian Hartline, and backed by a championship-ready roster, Sayin has every tool in place for success.
If he protects the football, Ohio State will repeat as national champions.
Sayin outlasted Lincoln Kienholz during camp by showing consistency, poise and complete command of the offense. Day confirmed it himself. That’s the kind of reassurance Buckeye fans want before heading into a heavyweight clash.
