Ohio State to start redshirt freshman at quarterback

Sayin was a five-star recruit in the class of 2024 and only trailed Florida’s DJ Lagway at quarterback in ESPN’s Top 300. He originally committed to Alabama, but flipped to Ohio State upon Nick Saban’s retirement. He played played in four games for the Buckeyes last season, completing 5-of-12 pass attempts for 84 yards and one touchdown.

He is scheduled to make his first collegiate start against top-ranked Texas on Aug. 30. With Arch Manning drawing significant offseason attention, the matchup will feature two relatively new quarterbacks aiming to lead their squads back to the College Football Playoff.

Thanks to the home-field advantage, Sayin will likely ease his way into things. It helps that he has the best, and arguably second best, wide receivers by his side in sophomore Jeremiah Smith and junior Carnell Tate. He will also count on Purdue-transfer Max Klare, who is expected to be one of the top tight ends in the nation.

However, Sayin will be forced to deal with a ferocious Texas defense, consisting of future NFL prospects such as Anthony Hill Jr. and Colin Simmons. If Sayin fails to settle in early and stay on his feet, the youngster could be in for a rude awakening.