Julian Sayin Makes Feelings Clear About QB Battle With Lincoln Kienholz

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Matt De Lima | Last updated Jul 20, 2025 11:58 AM ET

The battle to become the Ohio State Buckeyes' next starting quarterback is heating up, and Julian Sayin has made it clear. While the competition is fierce, there’s mutual respect and camaraderie in the Buckeyes' QB room.

Speaking to Eleven Warriors, Sayin was asked how he and Lincoln Kienholz are pushing each other. His response struck a confident yet team-first tone.

“Yeah ... we definitely have a competitive room. Me, Linc, Tavien [St. Clair], Eli [Brickhandler] and all the guys. And it's definitely fun,” Sayin said. “You know, it's competitive, but you know, we have each other's backs no matter what.”

Sayin’s message echoes the vibe around the Buckeyes this offseason, one of both high-level competition and deep trust. With former starter Will Howard now gone after leading Ohio State to a national title last season, the quarterback race has taken center stage ahead of the 2025 college football season.

Buckeyes coach Ryan Day recently acknowledged the uncertainty at the position during an appearance on "The Bobby Carpenter Show." “There’s times where I’ve gone into this part of the season feeling like I know or have a feeling on where it’s going. I don’t right now,” Day said.

That comment only amplified the intrigue, as Sayin and Kienholz continue to battle for the top spot. Day praised both for their offseason growth, especially in the weight room and with leadership. “The ball’s coming out of their hand good right now,” he added.

Also in the mix is Tavien St. Clair, a top-tier 2025 recruit who’s third in the race. Day said St. Clair has a “bright future” but needs more time and experience to reach his full potential.

Day emphasized that the true test will come in real-game scenarios. “When it’s fourth and 2, are we going to get three yards?” he said. “Getting guys to play well once we get in the red zone, making throws we need to make … that’s what separates guys.”

As Big Ten Media Days for Ohio State approach on Tuesday, Sayin’s steady leadership and positive energy are earning respect even as the battle for QB1 rages on in Columbus.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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