Ohio State Names Second-Year Player Julian Sayin as Starting Quarterback

Ohio State University has officially named Julian Sayin, a second-year player and former five-star recruit, as their starting quarterback for the 2025 season. This announcement, made by head coach Ryan Day, has generated excitement and anticipation among fans and analysts alike. With a challenging season opener against the No. 1-ranked Texas Longhorns on August 30, Sayin’s appointment marks a pivotal moment for the Buckeyes as they aim to reclaim their spot at the top of college football.

Julian Sayin: A Rising Star in College Football

Julian Sayin’s journey to becoming Ohio State’s starting quarterback is a story of talent, determination, and resilience. Hailing from Carlsbad, California, Sayin was a standout athlete in high school, earning unanimous five-star recruit status. He was ranked as the No. 1 quarterback in California and one of the top prospects nationally in the 2024 recruiting class. His high school career was nothing short of spectacular, with over 7,800 passing yards, 85 touchdowns, and just 10 interceptions.

Sayin’s senior year at Carlsbad High School was particularly impressive. He threw for 2,347 yards and 24 touchdowns with only one interception, showcasing his accuracy and decision-making skills. His performance earned him the title of Most Valuable Player at the 2023 Elite 11 Finals, further solidifying his reputation as one of the best young quarterbacks in the country.

Initially committing to Alabama, Sayin transferred to Ohio State in January 2024 following the retirement of legendary coach Nick Saban. His decision to join the Buckeyes was a significant win for Ohio State, adding depth and talent to their quarterback roster. Sayin’s transfer marked the beginning of a new chapter in his football journey, one that has now culminated in him being named the starting quarterback for one of the most prestigious programs in college football.

The Intense Quarterback Battle

The competition for the starting quarterback position at Ohio State was fierce. Sayin faced stiff competition from junior Lincoln Kienholz, a talented and experienced player in his own right. Over the course of spring and preseason practices, both players demonstrated their skills and made a strong case for the starting role.

Kienholz, a redshirt sophomore, brought his own set of strengths to the table, including athleticism and a strong arm. He had previously played in the 2023 Cotton Bowl, where he completed 6 of 17 passes for 86 yards. Despite his limited playing time, Kienholz showcased potential and a competitive spirit that pushed Sayin to elevate his game.

Ultimately, Sayin’s consistency, arm talent, and leadership qualities set him apart. According to Coach Ryan Day, Sayin “separated himself over the last week with his consistent play,” earning the trust of the coaching staff and his teammates. This decision allows the team to focus on preparing for their highly anticipated matchup against Texas.

Preparing for the Season Opener Against Texas

Ohio State’s season opener against Texas is one of the most anticipated games of the year. The Longhorns, led by quarterback Arch Manning, are ranked No. 1 in the nation and present a formidable challenge for the Buckeyes. Sayin’s performance in this game will be closely watched as he steps into the spotlight on one of college football’s biggest stages.

Coach Day emphasized the importance of giving Sayin the majority of reps with the first team in practice to ensure he is fully prepared. “In a game like this, you have to prepare, get the reps with the ones, and be the best on the first game of the year,” Day stated. The decision to name Sayin as the starter two weeks before the season opener provides the team with valuable time to build chemistry and fine-tune their game plan.

The matchup against Texas is not just a test for Sayin but also for the entire Ohio State team. The Longhorns boast a talented roster, and their defense is expected to be one of the best in the country. For Sayin, this game represents an opportunity to prove himself on a national stage and solidify his position as a leader for the Buckeyes.

Sayin’s Strengths and Potential

Sayin’s strengths as a quarterback include his accuracy, decision-making, and ability to perform under pressure. Despite his relatively limited college experience—he appeared in four games during the 2024 season—Sayin has shown significant growth and maturity. His high school stats, which include over 7,800 passing yards and 85 touchdowns, highlight his potential to excel at the collegiate level.

Teammates and coaches have praised Sayin for his work ethic and leadership. His ability to connect with his teammates and command the offense has been a key factor in his development. Sayin’s calm demeanor and focus under pressure make him a natural leader, qualities that will be crucial as he navigates the challenges of being a starting quarterback in the Big Ten.

In addition to his physical and mental attributes, Sayin’s journey to becoming the starting quarterback has been marked by resilience and determination. Transferring to a new program and competing for a starting role is no small feat, but Sayin has embraced the challenge and emerged stronger for it. His story is a testament to the importance of hard work, perseverance, and a commitment to excellence.

The Road Ahead for Ohio State

Ohio State’s decision to name Sayin as their starting quarterback marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter for the team. With a challenging schedule ahead, including matchups against top-ranked opponents, Sayin will play a crucial role in the Buckeyes’ pursuit of a national championship.

The team’s depth at quarterback, with Kienholz serving as a capable backup and freshman Tavien St. Clair adding additional talent to the roster, provides a strong foundation for success. Coach Day has expressed confidence in the entire quarterback room, emphasizing the importance of teamwork and preparation.

Beyond the season opener against Texas, Ohio State will face a series of tough opponents, including conference rivals like Michigan and Penn State. Each game will present its own set of challenges, but with Sayin at the helm, the Buckeyes are well-positioned to compete at the highest level.

Building a Legacy at Ohio State

For Sayin, the 2025 season is an opportunity to build his legacy at Ohio State. As a second-year player, he has the potential to be a multi-year starter and leave a lasting impact on the program. His journey from a high school standout to the starting quarterback for one of the most storied programs in college football is a testament to his talent and determination.

Sayin’s success will not only be measured by his individual performance but also by the team’s achievements. Leading the Buckeyes to a Big Ten championship and a spot in the College Football Playoff would solidify his place in Ohio State history. With a strong supporting cast and a dedicated coaching staff, Sayin has all the tools he needs to succeed.

Conclusion

Julian Sayin’s journey to becoming Ohio State’s starting quarterback is a testament to his talent, determination, and resilience. As the Buckeyes prepare to face Texas and embark on a challenging season, Sayin’s leadership and performance will be pivotal to the team’s success. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely as this young quarterback takes the reins and leads Ohio State into a new era of excellence.

Stay tuned for more updates on Julian Sayin and the Ohio State Buckeyes as the 2025 college football season unfolds. With Sayin at the helm, the future looks bright for Ohio State football.