Ohio State head coach Ryan Day recently provided a significant update on the highly anticipated quarterback competition for the 2025 season, a storyline that has captured the attention of Buckeyes fans and college football enthusiasts nationwide. The update came during the Big Ten Media Days, an event where coaches and players often reveal insights into their teams’ preparations and depth charts for the upcoming season. One of the most notable aspects of Day’s remarks was the conspicuous absence of five-star transfer Julian Sayin from the event, a move that raised eyebrows and sparked speculation about the state of the quarterback race at Ohio State.
Ryan Day’s decision to leave Sayin out of Big Ten Media Days was deliberate and strategic. Sayin, who transferred from Alabama and entered Ohio State with significant fanfare, was widely expected to be a frontrunner in the battle to succeed Will Howard, the Buckeyes’ national championship-winning quarterback. Sayin’s credentials are impressive — he was the No. 1 quarterback recruit in the 2024 class, and his arrival at Ohio State immediately elevated expectations for the program’s quarterback room. However, Day’s update painted a picture of a competition that remains open and far from decided.
During his remarks, Day emphasized that the race to replace Will Howard is still very much alive and highly competitive. According to the head coach, the primary contenders for the starting quarterback position include Julian Sayin, Lincoln Kienholz, and freshman Tavien St. Clair. Day’s measured tone suggested that while Sayin’s talent and early performances have been impressive, no player has yet solidified themselves as the clear-cut starter for the Buckeyes. This approach underscores Day’s desire to maintain a competitive environment in the quarterback room, ensuring that whoever ultimately wins the job is not only talented but also demonstrates the qualities of toughness, leadership, and the ability to thrive under pressure.
Ryan Day’s remarks came with a clear message: the coaching staff is focused on finding a quarterback who can handle the immense responsibility of leading Ohio State’s offense, especially given the high expectations that come with the program’s recent national championship success. The Buckeyes are set to open their 2025 season with a marquee matchup against Texas on August 30, a game that will put the starting quarterback under a national microscope. Day’s cautious approach in naming a starter reflects the understanding that rushing to a decision before the coaching staff is fully confident could be detrimental to the team’s long-term success.
One of the most intriguing elements of Day’s update was his praise for Julian Sayin despite Sayin’s absence from the media event. Day highlighted Sayin’s progress in building credibility within the locker room, suggesting that the young quarterback is growing into his role both on and off the field. Sayin’s performance in the spring game further reinforced this point; he completed 17 of 24 passes for 175 yards, showcasing poise, accuracy, and command of the offense. This performance was a clear indication that Sayin has the tools and potential to be a major factor for Ohio State moving forward.
Still, the absence of Sayin from Big Ten Media Days could indicate a number of strategic considerations. It may be that Day and the coaching staff want to keep the quarterback competition as internal and low-key as possible, minimizing external distractions and media pressure. By not putting Sayin in the spotlight prematurely, they preserve flexibility and keep all candidates motivated to compete without any sense of entitlement. Additionally, it could be a sign that the staff values the process of internal evaluation over public proclamations, waiting to see how each player develops through fall camp and preseason practices before making any official announcements.
In contrast to Sayin, Lincoln Kienholz and Tavien St. Clair remain prominent in the conversation. Kienholz, a player with experience and a demonstrated ability to manage games, offers a steadying presence and knowledge of Ohio State’s system. Meanwhile, Tavien St. Clair, a freshman, brings youth, athleticism, and a fresh skill set that could energize the Buckeyes’ offense. The diversity of these candidates highlights the unique nature of this quarterback competition — it’s not just a race between raw talent but also a contest between experience, leadership, and adaptability.
Ryan Day’s remarks also reveal a larger philosophy about Ohio State’s approach to quarterback development and competition. Rather than quickly naming a starter and potentially stifling competition, Day appears committed to fostering an environment where multiple players can push each other to improve. This approach can lead to better decision-making and ultimately produce a quarterback who is battle-tested and prepared for the pressures of high-stakes college football. The stakes are particularly high given the expectations surrounding Ohio State’s program, which consistently competes for Big Ten titles and national championships.
The importance of leadership and toughness in this quarterback competition cannot be overstated. Day specifically mentioned these qualities as critical for whoever takes over the reins from Will Howard, a quarterback who not only brought skill to the field but also commanded respect and led the Buckeyes to the pinnacle of college football success. The next Ohio State quarterback will be stepping into large shoes, and the coaching staff is clearly prioritizing intangible qualities alongside physical talent. This mindset reflects an understanding that the quarterback position at Ohio State is about much more than just throwing the ball — it’s about being the face of the program, rallying teammates, and making smart decisions under intense pressure.
The upcoming opener against Texas represents a significant milestone in this quarterback saga. It’s an early test that will provide a glimpse into how the competition is shaping up and which player can best handle the spotlight. Given the high stakes of that game, Day’s reluctance to name a starter early on signals a careful and deliberate approach to managing this transition. It also builds anticipation for fans who are eager to see how this competition unfolds in the coming weeks.
In the broader context of Ohio State football, the quarterback competition is a microcosm of the program’s pursuit of excellence. The Buckeyes are known for their rigorous standards and high expectations, and the quarterback position is no exception. Ryan Day’s leadership in navigating this competition reflects a commitment to maintaining Ohio State’s elite status while preparing the next generation of players to succeed at the highest level.
While the quarterback race remains unresolved, the clarity provided by Day’s update offers insight into the values and strategies guiding Ohio State’s program. The emphasis on toughness, leadership, internal competition, and measured decision-making speaks to a coaching philosophy that values process as much as outcome. It also highlights the depth of talent Ohio State has at quarterback — from a top-ranked recruit in Julian Sayin to experienced players like Lincoln Kienholz and promising freshmen like Tavien St. Clair.
Ultimately, Ohio State’s quarterback competition in 2025 will be a storyline to watch closely, not only because of the talent involved but also because of the significant role the chosen starter will play in the program’s quest for continued success. Ryan Day’s cautious but optimistic update leaves fans eager to see who will emerge as the next face of Ohio State football and how this competition will shape the team’s trajectory in the coming season. For now, the Buckeyes remain in a holding pattern, with all eyes on training camp and the early weeks of the season as the drama unfolds on the path to naming the 2025 starter.