In the realm of college football, the emergence of a promising quarterback can significantly alter a team’s trajectory. For the Ohio State Buckeyes, that potential catalyst appears to be Julian Sayin. Former Ohio State cornerback Denzel Burke, known for his candidness, recently expressed high praise for Sayin, stating, “I think he’s that guy, to be honest with you.” Burke’s endorsement sheds light on Sayin’s capabilities and hints at a bright future for the Buckeyes.
Julian Sayin: A Brief Overview
Julian Sayin, a unanimous five-star prospect, was widely regarded as the nation’s top quarterback in the 2024 recruiting class. Hailing from Carlsbad, California, Sayin’s high school career was marked by impressive statistics and accolades. In 2023, he was named the Gatorade California Player of the Year and earned MVP honors at the Elite 11 Finals. During his senior season, he led Carlsbad High School to a 9-1 record, amassing 2,347 passing yards, 24 touchdowns, and only one interception, with a remarkable 74.5% completion rate. Additionally, he showcased his versatility by rushing for 186 yards and four touchdowns.
Initially enrolling early at the University of Alabama, Sayin’s tenure with the Crimson Tide was brief. Following the retirement of legendary coach Nick Saban in January 2024, Alabama experienced a significant exodus of players through the transfer portal. Sayin was among those who sought new opportunities, leading him to transfer to Ohio State.
Denzel Burke’s Endorsement
Denzel Burke, a four-year starting cornerback for Ohio State, has built a reputation for his straightforward and honest assessments. During an interview at the NFL Scouting Combine on February 27, 2025, Burke was asked about the Buckeyes’ quarterback situation, particularly focusing on Julian Sayin. Burke’s response was unequivocally positive:
“I think he’s that guy, to be honest with you. And Lincoln is pretty good too. I’m ready to see this little matchup they’re going to have. Julian is a great player and puts great zip on the ball, has great pocket presence, and he’s going to have a great career.”
Burke’s observations stem from firsthand experience during practices, where he noted Sayin’s impressive arm strength and composure. He recalled,
“A couple practices in when he first got here, just the way he’s throwing the ball, he’s himself, and I could just tell he’s all about ball.”
Such commendation from a seasoned defender like Burke carries significant weight, especially considering his reluctance to draw premature comparisons. When prompted to liken Sayin’s arm to others, Burke paused before stating,
“Nah, I ain’t gonna say that. He has a good arm, I won’t put anything on him right now. He’s going to be a great player.”
The Implications for Ohio State
The quarterback position is pivotal in football, often serving as the linchpin for a team’s success. For Ohio State, the 2025 season ushers in a period of transition. The departure of key players, including quarterback Will Howard, wide receiver Emeka Egbuka, and linebacker Cody Simon to the NFL, signifies the end of an era. However, the return of talents like Julian Sayin, running back CJ Donaldson, and defensive standouts Sonny Styles and Davison Igbinosun offers a foundation upon which the Buckeyes can rebuild.
Sayin’s arrival intensifies the competition for the starting quarterback role. He is set to compete with Lincoln Kienholz and Tavien St. Clair, both formidable talents in their own right. This internal rivalry is poised to elevate the performance of each contender, ultimately benefiting the team’s overall dynamics. Burke’s anticipation of this “little matchup” underscores the healthy competition brewing within the squad.
A Glimpse into the Future
The 2025 season presents a unique landscape for Ohio State. The team is coming off a national championship victory, a triumph that saw them defeat five top-10 opponents, including Oregon, Texas, and Notre Dame. This achievement not only solidified their dominance but also set a high benchmark for the upcoming season.
With the departure of 13 of 22 playoff starters, the onus is on the new crop of players to uphold the Buckeyes’ esteemed legacy. Julian Sayin’s potential ascension to the starting quarterback position could be a defining factor in this endeavor. His prior experience, combined with the confidence expressed by teammates like Burke, suggests that Sayin possesses the attributes necessary to lead the team effectively.
Moreover, the offensive lineup is bolstered by the return of running back CJ Donaldson, whose prowess adds a multifaceted threat to the Buckeyes’ arsenal. The synergy between Sayin and Donaldson could prove instrumental in navigating the challenges of the forthcoming season.
Challenges and Considerations
While the prospects are promising, several challenges loom on the horizon. The departure of defensive coordinator Jim Knowles to Penn State necessitates adjustments within the defensive coaching framework. Such transitions can impact team cohesion and performance, underscoring the importance of adaptive strategies.