Julian Sayin: The Front-Runner to Be Ohio State’s QB1 in 2025.
The Ohio State Buckeyes have a rich history of elite quarterbacks, and the race for the 2025 starting job is already generating buzz. Former five-star recruit Julian Sayin is emerging as the top candidate to lead the Buckeyes next season. With Kyle McCord transferring to Syracuse and Will Howard expected to be a one-year rental, the door is wide open for Sayin to take control in Columbus.
Sayin’s Background and Talent
Julian Sayin, a former Alabama commit, was rated as one of the best quarterbacks in the 2024 recruiting class. The Carlsbad, California, native was a five-star prospect with a reputation for elite accuracy, poise under pressure, and advanced football IQ. Sayin initially signed with Alabama but entered the transfer portal following Nick Saban’s retirement. With Ohio State’s need for a long-term answer at quarterback, Sayin’s move to Columbus was a massive win for Ryan Day and his staff.
At 6’1” and 195 pounds, Sayin isn’t the prototypical towering QB, but what he lacks in size, he makes up for in precision passing and quick decision-making. His ability to process defenses at an elite level makes him an ideal fit for Ryan Day’s offense, which thrives on timing and execution.
The 2025 Quarterback Competition
While Sayin is currently considered the front-runner for the 2025 starting job, he will have competition. Five-star freshman Air Noland, who signed in 2024, is another high-ceiling prospect with a strong arm and dual-threat ability. Lincoln Kienholz and Devin Brown, if still on the roster, could also push for playing time, but Sayin’s experience and pedigree give him a significant edge.
The Buckeyes will also have an influx of talent at wide receiver, led by Jeremiah Smith, who many believe will be the next great Ohio State pass-catcher. Sayin’s ability to distribute the ball effectively will be crucial in maintaining Ohio State’s high-powered offense, which has consistently been among the nation’s best under Day.
Why Sayin Is the Favorite
1. Elite Talent: Sayin’s arm talent, accuracy, and decision-making make him an ideal fit for Ohio State’s system.
2. Experience in a Pro-Style System: Coming from a structured high school offense and his time at Alabama, Sayin has been exposed to complex schemes that translate well to Ryan Day’s approach.
3. Ryan Day’s Development Track Record: Day has produced quarterbacks like Justin Fields, C.J. Stroud, and Dwayne Haskins, and Sayin has the skill set to be the next in line.
4. Lack of an Established Starter in 2025: With Will Howard expected to depart after 2024, Sayin will have a prime opportunity to take over the offense.
Ohio State fans should be excited—Julian Sayin has all the tools to be the next great Buckeye quarterback. While he still needs to prove himself on the field, everything points to him being the future of Ohio State football.
