OSU has set the bar high for QB play, from the Urban Meyer era to Ryan Day’s reign. Even Kyle McCord’s 2023 season—while not disastrous—was the lowest point under Day. And that’s why the Buckeyes wasted no time hitting the transfer portal, landing veteran QB Will Howard. But now, it’s time for the next star to rise. As OSU eyes a National Title run, all signs point to sophomore Julian Sayin winning the job. On top of that, he spent last season learning from Howard, soaking in every detail of his leadership. So now, the stage is his, and a top national analyst is setting the record straight on what to expect from Sayin this season.
However, Julian Sayin isn’t claiming the starting job just yet. With Will Howard gone, OSU’s quarterback room looks a bit thinner. But Sayin isn’t focused on that—he’s locked in on spring practice, which kicked off Monday. And he’s sharing reps with freshman Tavien St. Clair, an early enrollee, and junior Lincoln Kienholz; that’s where the real battle begins.
But here’s the big question—who takes command? On the March 21 episode of On3, J.D. PicKell broke down the latest intel and what it means for OSU. And during that time, he said, “I’m really interested to see what the intel is around these guys winning the locker room, because Lincoln Kienholz has been around for a while. Same thing with Gunner Stockton—Georgia, like, dude has paid his dues. How do you handle stepping into all that comes with being QB1 at Ohio State?” Safe to say, while the pressure is real, the expectations are massive.
Look, being QB1 at OSU is more than just playing the position—it’s owning the spotlight. And PicKell made that crystal clear, stating, “Notice what I said—being QB1, not playing quarterback, but you are the quarterback at Ohio State.” So, he emphasized the fact that the pressure isn’t just on the field, it’s everywhere. And in Ohio, few names are bigger. “Like, in terms of people in Ohio that are visible, Ryan Day, and then, like, I don’t know who the quarterback is, I suppose, and even then, they’re probably behind both those individuals,” added PicKell. Honestly, the message is this isn’t just any job, it’s a role that demands leadership, poise, and the ability to handle the weight of an entire fanbase.
Furthermore, handling the spotlight at OSU isn’t just about talent—it’s about leadership. And Howard set the standard, earning respect as one of the most liked players in the locker room. So now, the question is: who steps up next? Neither Lincoln Kienholz nor Julian Sayin is a polarizing figure. However, no one is saying, “Man, I don’t like those guys.” That’s not the issue. But the real challenge? Becoming the face of the program, winning over teammates, commanding the room. After all, being the Buckeyes QB1 is more than just making throws—it’s about owning the role and everything that comes with it.
And here, enter Julian Sayin. His journey to OSU began in January 2024, following Nick Saban’s retirement. He saw limited action in his first season but flashed his potential with a 55-yard touchdown strike. Because 2024 was about growth—sharpening his craft, mastering the details, and proving he was ready. But his dedication didn’t go unnoticed, with former QB Will Howard saying, “Now it’s his time,” and CB Denzel Burke adding, “Julian’s that guy.” And now, with the spotlight on him, Sayin is ready to take charge and lead the Buckeyes forward.
However, Texas in Week 1 is no easy task, and PicKell made it clear—this game will demand mental toughness and extra juice. While the spotlight will be bright, the excitement is real. “I cannot wait to watch this thing unfold,” he added. But the buzz around Sayin keeps growing, and he’s still the favorite to win the job, and as PicKell put it, stating, “I would have to imagine he’s the betting favorite as well.” As of now, it’s time to prove it on the field.
Although expectations are high for Sayin, Ryan Day has a clear message—Ohio State’s QB battle is far from over.
Ryan Day’s firm stance
Albeit Julian Sayin remains the overwhelming favorite, the real battle isn’t just against his competition—it’s against the daily grind of becoming a top-tier QB. So, right now, it’s about mastering the details, not just winning the job. And Ryan Day isn’t rushing the process, though he’s open to making a call sooner rather than later. “We try not to make hasty decisions. We try to make sure we’re thorough,” emphasized Day. As of now, with spring ball underway, every rep, every moment, and every decision will shape OSU’s future under center.
However, Ryan Day knows the road to QB1 isn’t easy—it’s a grind. Because the battle isn’t just about talent; it’s about mindset, growth, and resilience. “It’s an understanding that the process is going to be a battle. But you have to make sure when you walk into that building every day that you’re prepared,” explained Day. You know what? Mistakes will happen, but learning from them is what separates the good from the great. “You have to understand that you’re going to fail. But then you have to learn quickly. If you’re making the same mistakes over and over again, it’s gonna take longer to get to where you want to be and win the job,” stated the OSU HC.
To be honest, right now, for Sayin and the rest of the QB room, every day is a test—as only one will emerge as Ohio State’s next leader.
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