**Ryan Day Gives Major QB Update After Leaving Julian Sayin Out**
Ohio State head coach Ryan Day has sent shockwaves through the college football world with his latest quarterback update, especially after the surprising decision to leave highly touted freshman Julian Sayin off the initial depth chart. The move has sparked intense speculation about the Buckeyes’ quarterback situation heading into the 2024 season, with Day providing some clarity—while also leaving plenty of room for debate.
Sayin, a five-star recruit and one of the most coveted passers in the 2024 class, transferred to Ohio State after Nick Saban’s retirement at Alabama. Many expected him to immediately compete for the starting job, but Day’s recent comments suggest the young quarterback may need more time to develop before taking the reins of the Buckeyes’ high-powered offense.
“We have a lot of talent in that room, and competition is going to be fierce,” Day said in a press conference. “Right now, we’re looking at who gives us the best chance to win, and that’s going to be based on performance, leadership, and how they handle the offense.”
Day’s remarks strongly indicate that the Buckeyes’ QB battle is far from settled, but the decision to exclude Sayin from early discussions suggests that veterans Will Howard and Devin Brown are currently ahead in the pecking order. Howard, a Kansas State transfer, brings experience and a dual-threat skill set, while Brown has been waiting in the wings for his opportunity after backing up Kyle McCord last season.
The omission of Sayin doesn’t necessarily mean he’s out of the race entirely, but it does signal that Ohio State may be leaning toward a more seasoned option for the upcoming season. Day emphasized the importance of consistency and decision-making, traits that often take time for true freshmen to master, even ones as talented as Sayin.
“Julian is an incredible talent, and his future here is very bright,” Day said. “But we also have guys who have been in the system, who understand what it takes to win at this level. Right now, we’re focused on putting the best team on the field.”
This approach aligns with Day’s history of preferring experienced quarterbacks, as seen with C.J. Stroud, Justin Fields, and even Dwayne Haskins before them. While Sayin’s potential is undeniable, Ohio State is in a win-now mode, especially after falling short of a national championship in recent years. The pressure is on Day to deliver, and he may not have the luxury of letting a freshman learn on the job.
Fans have been divided on the decision. Some believe Sayin’s elite arm talent and poise should earn him a shot, while others argue that Howard’s experience in big games—including a Big 12 championship—makes him the safer choice. Meanwhile, Devin Brown’s supporters point to his familiarity with the offense and his strong performances in limited action last season.
One thing is certain: Ohio State’s quarterback competition will be one of the most-watched storylines of the offseason. Day has made it clear that the best player will play, but his latest update suggests that Julian Sayin may have to wait his turn—at least for now.
As fall camp approaches, all eyes will be on Columbus to see if Sayin can close the gap or if Day’s decision to lean on experience will pay off in the Buckeyes’ quest for a national title.
