Ohio State doesn’t do quarterback controversies it sets quarterback expectations. In Columbus, those expectations define eras. Will Howard fulfilled his role in 2024, but his time with the Buckeyes was short-lived. With Howard moving on to the NFL, Ohio State faces a big question at quarterback or does it?
Head coach Ryan Day has made it clear that the team’s next QB1 is already in the building. Unlike last season, there will be no portal shopping or high-profile transfers. Instead, the Buckeyes will rely on a group of talented in-house options: former Alabama five-star transfer Julian Sayin, Lincoln Keinholz, and incoming five-star freshman Tavien St. Clair.
Howard’s impact in 2024 wasn’t about elite talent but leadership. According to insider Zach Smith, Howard thrived by managing the offense and avoiding mistakes. “He wasn’t special, but he was the right guy at the right time,” Smith said on the College Football Addiction podcast. “He just had to distribute the ball, not turn it over, and he brought that leadership.” Even after poor performances, like against Nebraska, Howard took accountability, earning the respect of his teammates. That’s the standard Ohio State’s next quarterback must meet.
All eyes are now on Julian Sayin. The former five-star Alabama recruit saw limited action last season, completing 5-of-12 passes for 84 yards and a touchdown. But at 6’1” with a quick release and exceptional pocket presence, Sayin offers a different skill set than Howard. Reports from practice suggest Sayin’s arm talent is elite, with some comparing his release to a superhero-like whip.
The competition won’t be easy, though. Ryan Day has emphasized that the battle for QB1 will be relentless. St. Clair, a 6’4” prospect with an NFL-ready frame, also fits Day’s ideal quarterback mold. Though young, Ohio State has never hesitated to start a talented freshman if he proves to be the best option.
Leadership will be the key factor in deciding the starter. “It’s not just about arm talent,” Day explained. “We need someone who commands the huddle, the locker room, and the moment.” The quarterbacks have had time to study the role, especially during the national championship run, and now they must prove they can lead the team.
The buzz around Sayin is growing rapidly. Bleacher Report’s Brad Shepard believes he isn’t just another top recruit he has the potential to be one of the best quarterbacks in Ohio State history. “He patiently waited behind Will Howard in 2024 while the veteran led the Buckeyes to a national title,” Shepard wrote. “But Sayin has the ability to be one of the best quarterbacks ever for a program known for developing stars under center.”
Sayin, the 2023 Gatorade California Player of the Year, completed 66.5% of his passes in high school and was ranked as the top QB in the 2024 recruiting class. With backup Devin Brown transferring, Sayin appears to have the inside track on the starting job.
With Ohio State set for another title run and weapons like Jeremiah Smith around him, Sayin is in a prime position to make an immediate impact. The expectations are sky-high, and the hype train is already rolling. Now, it’s up to him to deliver.
Be the first to comment