Julian Sayin says he’s added muscle during the offseason, and Ryan Day is drawing high praise for the young quarterback, comparing his throwing release to that of a legendary former Buckeye signal-caller.

Julian Sayin’s offseason has been anything but ordinary. The highly-touted quarterback, who arrived at Ohio State with immense expectations, has taken full advantage of the summer months to elevate not just his mental approach to the game, but also his physical stature. According to Sayin, the focus over the offseason wasn’t just on refining mechanics or increasing film study, though those aspects were certainly present. Instead, the real emphasis was placed on building muscle, adding weight in the right places, and preparing his body to withstand the physical demands of college football at the highest level.

“I knew coming in that the Big Ten is a different kind of challenge,” Sayin shared during a recent media availability. “I’ve always prided myself on my preparation, but I had to take that to another level once I got to Columbus. This offseason was about getting stronger, getting faster, and being able to take hits and bounce right back.”

Sayin arrived at Ohio State already polished in many respects. A five-star recruit, he was widely viewed as one of the most pro-ready quarterbacks in the 2024 class. His footwork, pocket presence, and ability to deliver the ball with precision all earned him praise from scouts and analysts alike. However, the transition from high school to college football is never seamless. Even for the most talented of players, the leap in size, speed, and complexity of defenses can be a shock. Sayin, well aware of that, took a proactive approach.

By the time fall camp rolled around, coaches and teammates took notice of Sayin’s physical transformation. The added bulk didn’t just help in taking contact—it also added velocity to his throws, something that impressed head coach Ryan Day immediately.

“He looks like a different guy,” Day said. “You can tell he’s been in the weight room. He’s more durable, he’s moving better, and his arm has more pop. What’s most impressive, though, is how smooth he still is with his release.”

It was that last point that really got people talking. Day went on to compare Sayin’s throwing motion to that of one of the most iconic quarterbacks to ever wear scarlet and gray: Troy Smith. The 2006 Heisman Trophy winner was known for a compact, lightning-quick release and pinpoint accuracy, traits that allowed him to thrive under pressure and carve up some of the nation’s toughest defenses.

“There’s something about the way the ball comes out of his hand,” Day said of Sayin. “It’s clean, it’s fast, and it gets on receivers in a hurry. It reminds me of Troy. There’s a calmness to it, a confidence. That’s rare in someone this young.”

Comparisons to Troy Smith aren’t made lightly around the Woody Hayes Athletic Center. Smith’s legacy isn’t just built on statistics or accolades; it’s about leadership, poise, and the way he carried Ohio State during a golden era of Buckeye football. For Sayin to be mentioned in the same breath is a testament to how far he’s come in just a few short months.

Of course, Day is also quick to temper expectations. While Sayin’s physical development and arm talent are elite, there’s more to being a successful college quarterback than mechanics or muscle. Decision-making, leadership, adaptability, and the ability to perform under pressure are the traits that ultimately define whether a quarterback can rise to the top at a program like Ohio State.

“Julian’s doing all the right things,” Day noted. “He’s asking the right questions, spending extra time in the film room, working with the older guys. He’s hungry to learn. But there’s a process to this. We’re not skipping steps.”

Veteran players have taken notice as well. Sayin has reportedly built strong relationships with the Buckeyes’ upperclassmen, particularly the wide receiver group, where Ohio State continues to reload with elite talent year after year. Those connections will be critical as Sayin competes for playing time, whether this year or down the road.

“He doesn’t walk around like he’s got it all figured out,” one receiver said. “But you can see the confidence. He walks in, and you know he’s serious about his business. He puts in the work. You respect that.”

Sayin’s journey to Columbus was one that had fans buzzing from the moment he committed. Originally from California, he turned down offers from across the country to join a Buckeye program that has established itself as a factory for elite quarterbacks. Under Day, the Buckeyes have produced NFL starters and Heisman contenders. The expectation is clear: come in, compete, develop, and perform at the highest level.

That culture of development was a key part of Sayin’s decision. He’s spoken often about his trust in Day and the coaching staff to bring out the best in him. Now, with an offseason of growth under his belt, that process is accelerating.

Strength and conditioning coach Mickey Marotti, a longtime pillar of the Buckeyes’ program, also played a vital role in Sayin’s offseason gains. Sayin credits Marotti’s detailed approach and the intensity of Ohio State’s training regimen as game-changing.

“I’ve never worked like this before,” Sayin admitted. “Coach Mick and the staff demand the best out of you every single day. You don’t just show up—you have to show up with a purpose. That’s been huge for me.”

As for the competition at quarterback, Ohio State’s depth chart remains stacked. With veteran presence in the room and multiple high-end recruits jockeying for position, Sayin is not being handed anything. But in Day’s system, competition is constant, and iron sharpens iron. Sayin understands that his time will come—not necessarily by waiting, but by earning every opportunity.

And if the early signs are any indication, he’s well on his way.

“I’m just focused on getting better every day,” Sayin said. “Whether that’s in the weight room, in the film room, or out on the field, I know what I want to become, and I know what it takes to get there.”

That kind of mindset is exactly what Ohio State thrives on. The program has long prided itself on its relentless pursuit of excellence, both individually and collectively. For quarterbacks, that pursuit means not just understanding Xs and Os but mastering every facet of preparation, execution, and leadership.

Sayin’s ability to accept coaching, improve physically, and still maintain the fluid, effortless release that made him a five-star recruit in the first place has created real excitement inside the Buckeye facility. His story is still in its early chapters, but the foundation he’s laying now will determine what comes next.

While the season draws closer and fans begin to speculate about depth charts, starting roles, and game-day rotations, Sayin’s approach remains grounded.

“I’m grateful to be here,” he said. “There’s a tradition at Ohio State that’s bigger than any one player. I want to be a part of that. I want to earn my place.”

The comparison to Troy Smith may be flattering, but it’s not something Sayin takes lightly. Smith wasn’t just a great quarterback—he was a leader, a competitor, and a player who rose to the moment when it mattered most. If Sayin can channel even a fraction of that legacy, Buckeye Nation could be looking at another special talent under center.

But for now, it’s about the grind. The weight room. The film sessions. The quiet throws on the practice field. And the mindset of a young quarterback who understands that greatness doesn’t come from hype—it’s built one rep at a time.

Julian Sayin may have bulked up, but the real strength he’s showing might just be the discipline, focus, and maturity beyond his years. And if that release really does echo the smooth confidence of a Buckeye legend, Ohio State fans have every reason to be excited about what’s next.