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Ryan Day finally admitted the one thing that is only going to put more pressure on Ohio State QB Julian Sayin down the stretch
Joe Nicholson-Imagn Images

The Ohio State Buckeyes are coming off a 38-14 win over the Penn State Nittany Lions that moved them to 8-0 on the season. Ohio State hasn’t been tested in a close game since its 14-7 win over the Texas Longhorns to start the year.

Against Penn State, the Buckeyes aired out their passing attack as quarterback Julian Sayin connected on three passes of at least 40 yards. Ohio State played to its strength with wideouts Jeremiah Smith and Carnell Tate, and it was an impressive showing by the passing offense. Coming out of the game, Heisman talk has ramped up for Sayin, who is playing as well as anyone in the country.

Ryan Day inflicts major belief in QB Julian Sayin

“He’s made some tremendous throws, made good decisions, taken care of the football,” Day said on Tuesday. “It’s clear to see that he is now playing at a level we can reach our goals with. That’s exciting for everybody.”

Sayin completed 20-of-23 passes against Penn State for 316 yards and four touchdowns with no turnovers. Ohio State’s starting quarterback now has a 23-to-3 touchdown-to-interception ratio this season and has been remarkably accurate, completing 80 percent of his passes. Sayin has been everything the Buckeyes could have hoped for in his first year as a starter, following up a strong season from Will Howard last year.

Day’s belief that Sayin can lead them to their goals means competing for a Big Ten title and a National Championship. Ohio State has paired a dynamic, pass-heavy offense with an elite defense, and that combination has been more than enough to dominate through the first eight games. Bigger tests are still to come for Sayin and the Buckeyes — but Day believes he has the right quarterback to guide them through it all.


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This article first appeared on A to Z Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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