In a move that was expected by most, Ohio State head coach Ryan Day just named Julian Sayin his starter and Lincoln Kienholz the backup. Sayin is now a familiar name to Texas football fans but if you followed recruiting closely, he was almost a very familiar name to Texas fans.
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Sayin is someone IT spoke with a handful of times during his recruitment. A five-star in the 2024 class, Sayin was very high on Texas and Steve Sarkisian until Arch Manning committed to Texas on June 23, 2022. He was candid in saying if Manning picked Texas it would negatively affect him. Once Manning committed, Sayin ended up picking Alabama. Not long after he was in Tuscaloosa, however, Nick Saban retired and Sayin found his way to Ohio State after a brief stop in the transfer portal.
From his recruitment, Sarkisian will have familiarity with Ohio State’s new starter. Sark and his staffers were very high on Sayin when he came out of Carlsbad, California. As a recruit, Sayin was known for his intelligence, accuracy, and smooth release.
While Sayin’s talent isn’t in question, his readiness to face perhaps the best defense in the nation is. One of the main expectations for Texas this season is it will have a withering pass rush, led by Colin Simmons at Edge and Anthony Hill at linebacker. That pass rush has consistently showed up during fall camp. Just as Sayin is set to make his first career start, the Buckeyes will be working to replace two first round draft picks on the offensive line. While Sayin is known for his poise and intelligence, he will likely have to make a number plays through improvisation on August 30.
Here’s a scouting report from On3’s Cody Bellaire.
The most refined and accurate passer in the 2024 cycle. Measured in at over 6-foot-1, 195 pounds with a 9.25-inch hand prior to his senior season. Touts one of the quickest releases in the cycle with a tight, compact throwing motion. Has outstanding overall mechanics. Consistently throws in rhythm, marrying his eyes, upper body and feet. Generates good zip on short and intermediate passes. The ball gets out quick. Layers his passes with ease, delivering with advanced touch. Hits receivers in stride. A good deep ball thrower. Comfortable passer on the run with the ability to deliver from off-platform. Navigates the pocket with ease and with intention. Plays on his toes and has quick, reactive feet. A surgical passer on Friday nights. Decisive passer who reads the field quickly and efficiently. Turned in an efficient junior season, completing 66.5% of his passes for 2,708 yards (11.1 yards per attempt) and 27 touchdowns against 4 interceptions. Also rushed for 154 yards and three scores. A standout in neutral settings, as he was named the On3 MVP at the Elite 11 Finals and OT7 Finals prior to his senior season. Does not possess the eye-popping physical traits of some of his highly-touted peers. Can continue building on his improvisational skills and overall creativity as he often wins from within structure. Considered a very safe quarterback prospect with a high floor at the next level.
