Ohio State’s National Championship Hopes Might Be DEAD

Julian Sayin’s injury could derail Ohio State’s entire season after freshman Luke Fahey struggled badly against Indiana in the fourth quarter.

Ohio State might have defeated Indiana 19-15 on Saturday, but the Buckeyes could have suffered a much bigger loss than anyone realizes.

Their national championship hopes might have just taken a devastating hit.

Starting quarterback Julian Sayin suffered a right arm injury in the fourth quarter against Indiana, forcing freshman Luke Fahey into action. Following the game, Ryan Day announced that Sayin is expected to miss several weeks.

And if Saturday was any indication, Ohio State could be in serious trouble.

Fahey looked completely overwhelmed when he entered the game. The freshman finished 0-for-2 passing, and Ohio State’s offense essentially disappeared with him under center. The Buckeyes struggled to move the football, couldn’t establish any offensive rhythm and were forced to rely on their defense to escape Bloomington with a victory.

Yes, Fahey was thrown into an incredibly difficult situation against one of the best teams in the country. But nothing about his performance suggested he was ready to lead a national championship contender.

And Ohio State’s upcoming schedule isn’t doing him any favors.

After a much-needed bye week, the Buckeyes travel to USC before hosting Oregon and Northwestern. They also have road trips to Nebraska and their annual rivalry matchup against Michigan remaining.

That’s an absolutely brutal stretch for a freshman quarterback who has barely experienced meaningful college football action.

Ohio State still has one of the most talented rosters in America, including superstar wide receiver Jeremiah Smith. But what good is having arguably the best receiver in college football if your quarterback can’t consistently get him the ball?

Ryan Day deserves credit for developing quarterbacks, and Fahey will have additional time to prepare before facing USC. However, expecting him to immediately replace Sayin’s production is a massive gamble.

The Buckeyes entered the weekend looking like legitimate national championship contenders. Now, their entire season could depend on how quickly their starting quarterback recovers.

Ohio State won the battle against Indiana, but Julian Sayin’s injury might have cost the Buckeyes the war.

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