New Update on Ohio State's QB Battle Offers Disappointing News For Julian Sayin

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Kevin Borba | Last updated Aug 6, 2025 8:43 PM ET

Following the departure of Will Howard after the team's College Football Playoff National Championship victory, the expectation around Columbus was that Julian Sayin would take over as Ohio State's quarterback.

Sayin ranked as the No. 6 recruit in the 2024 class, and No. 1 quarterback in the country according to 247Sports' Composite Rankings. He ended up at Ohio State after transferring from Alabama following Nick Saban's sudden retirement.

Although those around the sport have been quick to tab him as the heir apparent, the latest intel on Ohio State's battle doesn't indicate that this is Sayin's job just yet.

Julian Sayin Not Named The Starting QB at Ohio State

According to On3's Pete Nakos, not only is 2023 four-star Lincoln Kienholz putting up a good fight, but it appears he is the clubhouse favorite.

"The Notre Dame and Ohio State quarterback battles are legitimate, and no true leader has emerged to this point, sources have told On3," wrote Nakos. "While Lincoln Kienholz has emerged as a leader in the Ohio State locker room, Julian Sayin has an arm that sources have raved about."

Who is Lincoln Kienholz?

No. 194 player in the country, No. 15 quarterback and No. 1 player from South Dakota in 2023.
Chose Ohio State over North Dakota State, Washington, Wyoming and Wisconsin.
Last played in the 2023 Cotton Bowl against Missouri, completed 6-of-17 passes for 86 yards

Ryan Day Needs Starting QB to Emerge as Battle With Arch Manning, Texas Looms

The Buckeyes won't have an easy time easing back into things as they begin their title defense, as they are set to host the Texas Longhorns in Week 1. The Longhorns were tabbed as the No. 1 team in college football in the preseason coaches poll, and are widely viewed as having one of the best defenses in the country.

The longer it takes for a starter to be decided, the fewer reps the winner will get before facing off against Texas on Aug. 29.

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

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