Ohio State QB Julian Sayin Looks to Improve in Second Season

Buckeyes quarterback working on using his legs more and taking on a bigger leadership role

Mar. 12, 2026 at 11:36pm

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Ohio State quarterback Julian Sayin had a strong 2025 season, but is looking to take his game to the next level in 2026. Sayin and the coaching staff have identified areas for improvement, including making more plays with his legs and stepping up as a leader. After falling short in the College Football Playoff, Sayin is motivated to help the Buckeyes get back and win a national championship.

Why it matters

As the starting quarterback for one of the top college football programs, Sayin's development is crucial to Ohio State's success. The Buckeyes are looking to bounce back from a disappointing end to the 2025 season and Sayin's ability to improve his game and lead the team will be a key factor.

The details

Sayin completed over 72% of his passes in 2025, but struggled in the Big Ten Championship Game and College Football Playoff loss, getting sacked 10 times across those two games. The coaching staff wants Sayin to be more willing to use his legs and make plays when the pocket breaks down. Sayin has also focused on improving his leadership and communication with teammates, especially the younger players, to get the offense on the same page.

  • Sayin finished the 2025 season with -44 rushing yards on 42 carries.
  • Ohio State lost to Indiana in the Big Ten Championship Game and Miami in the College Football Playoff quarterfinal to end the 2025 season.

The players

Julian Sayin

The starting quarterback for Ohio State, Sayin was a Heisman Trophy finalist in his first year as the starter in 2025.

Ryan Day

The head coach of the Ohio State football team, Day has coached other successful Buckeye quarterbacks like Justin Fields and C.J. Stroud.

Billy Fessler

The quarterbacks coach at Ohio State, Fessler is working with Sayin on improving his game.

Arthur Smith

The new offensive coordinator at Ohio State, Smith is helping Sayin learn the offensive changes.

Mickey Marotti

The strength and conditioning coach at Ohio State, Marotti is helping Sayin prepare his body for more rushing attempts.

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What they’re saying

“I think as a competitor, you definitely have plays that you just want those back. And for me, I'm not really focused on what good plays I made. I'm focused on the few plays that I wish I would have made that would have given us a chance to win those games.”

— Julian Sayin, Ohio State Quarterback (247sports.com)

“Making an impact with his legs when appropriate. We know that that's the X factor that has to show up this year.”

— Ryan Day, Ohio State Head Coach (247sports.com)

“Just being able to get us out of bad situations and make plays for our offense, I think, is going to be important.”

— Julian Sayin, Ohio State Quarterback (247sports.com)

What’s next

The Buckeyes will continue spring practice as they prepare for the 2026 season, with a focus on Sayin developing as both a passer and runner to take the next step in his progression.

The takeaway

After a strong 2025 campaign, Julian Sayin is determined to lead Ohio State back to the College Football Playoff and win a national championship. By improving his mobility and asserting himself as a leader, Sayin can take the Buckeyes' offense to new heights and cement his status as one of the top quarterbacks in the country.