Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

Ryan Day Gets Real About Ohio State’s QB Battle Before Big Ten Media Days

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Matt De Lima | Last updated Jul 18, 2025 10:57 AM ET

Ohio State coach Ryan Day isn't one to mince words, especially when it comes to deciding who will be leading the Buckeyes onto the field this fall. Ahead of the Big Ten Media Days, Day appeared on "The Bobby Carpenter Show" and openly admitted he's uncertain about who will take the reins at quarterback.

“I would say 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 confessed, capturing the intrigue around Columbus. Ohio State's quarterback room features three candidates: Julian Sayin, Lincoln Kienholz, and Tavien St. Clair.

Sayin and Kienholz, according to Day, have been impressive throughout the offseason. "They’re getting stronger," Day said. "Talking to Mick (Buckeyes' strength coach), there's been really good leadership. The ball's coming out of their hand good right now."

Tavien St. Clair, a former five-star recruit ranked fourth in the 2025 class per On3, while currently third in the competition, is certainly not forgotten. Day praised his potential, highlighting that he has "a really bright future ahead of him," but acknowledged that St. Clair needs more time to develop. “He needs this preseason and the first half of the season to grow," Day explained.

Day emphasized the critical importance of game action, noting that making tough in-game decisions is ultimately what will set one quarterback apart from the others. "When it’s fourth and two, are we going to get three yards?

"Getting guys to play well once we get in the red zone, making throws we need to make, decisions on when to throw the ball away, taking care of the football, maybe taking a sack when we’re not going to force the ball into coverage."

The Buckeyes, fresh off a spectacular 2024 championship season led by quarterback Will Howard, who expertly guided Ohio State through key victories and ultimately clinched the national title, are eager to sustain their success. Howard's departure leaves massive shoes to fill, making Day's quarterback decision even more pivotal.

As Ohio State prepares for Big Ten Media Days on July 22, safety Caleb Downs, wide receiver Jeremiah Smith and linebacker Sonny Styles will represent the Buckeyes.

Clearly, all eyes in Columbus are on who emerges as the next great Ohio State quarterback.

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

More must-reads: