Julian Sayin’s Spring Struggles and Promise Fuel Ohio State’s Quarterback Race
As Ohio State enters a pivotal offseason, all eyes are on the quarterback battle that could define its 2025 campaign. Leading the spotlight is Julian Sayin, the talented freshman from Alabama, whose spring performance left both optimism and questions. Though his early practices and scrimmage moments weren’t always smooth, college football analyst Greg McElroy urged fans to see the bigger picture. “If it’s always good all the time, then how do you know how he’s going to respond to adversity?” he posed.
Sayin faced challenges early on, appearing unsteady during scrimmages and missing some critical throws, including a near-certain touchdown to receiver Mylan Graham during the spring game. Dave Biddle from the Cover 3 Podcast highlighted those misses while still acknowledging Sayin’s strengths, such as solid accuracy and a serviceable arm, even if it isn’t elite in power.
The Buckeyes are rebuilding in 2025 after losing key veterans to the draft and transfer portal. Head coach Ryan Day is under pressure, especially with his winless record against Michigan. With Will Howard gone, Sayin is widely seen as the frontrunner to start the season opener against Texas. But his frame—standing 6 feet and weighing around 200–203 pounds—raises durability concerns in a physically demanding role.
Despite that, Sayin finished spring on a high note, impressing coaches with his ability to learn and grow. His main rival, Lincoln Kienholz, also turned in a solid performance. Sayin completed 17 of 24 passes for 175 yards and a touchdown in the spring game, while Kienholz went 12 of 18 for 158 yards and two touchdowns.
Analysts agree the decision between the two remains razor-thin. Sayin has a year in the system under his belt and shows great poise under pressure, while Kienholz, entering his third year, brings experience and consistency. Meanwhile, freshman Tavien St. Clair, though talented, is still adapting and trails behind the top two.
Ryan Day admitted the competition remains fluid, stating that while Kienholz had the early edge, Sayin outperformed him in the spring game. He emphasized that the upcoming summer practices will be crucial, and an early decision will be necessary to ensure full preparation ahead of the high-stakes season.
In the end, whether it’s Sayin or Kienholz under center, Ohio State needs a quarterback who can rise above the pressure and deliver. With the Michigan rivalry looming and the Natty dream alive, the Buckeyes can’t afford hesitation. The race is tight, but the path to glory demands clarity—and soon.