The inclusion of five-star recruit Julian Sayin in Ohio State’s football roster does not immediately alter the 2024 quarterback depth chart, where fifth-year player Will Howard is expected to be the starter. With Lincoln Kienholz, Devin Brown, and five-star Air Noland also in the mix, it seems unlikely that Sayin or Noland will have significant playing time next season, barring unforeseen circumstances. Looking beyond 2024, uncertainty arises with Howard’s imminent departure due to the end of his eligibility, opening possibilities for changes in the quarterback lineup.
Brown, a 2022 signee, and Kienholz, a 2023 signee, are likely candidates for future starting roles, while it’s anticipated that at least one of Ohio State’s current quarterbacks may not be part of the team by the start of the next season. The addition of two 2024 quarterbacks, including Sayin, is seen as a strategic move by Ohio State to ensure that one of the incoming freshmen lives up to their recruiting ranking. This approach is considered natural and beneficial for quarterback recruiting in the current landscape.
Taking two quarterbacks in a single class is uncommon, and Ohio State’s last instance was in 2021 when Quinn Ewers reclassified. Ewers, however, left Columbus shortly after. Nebraska, another program that signed a five-star quarterback in the 2024 cycle, also secured a three-star prospect as their second quarterback commit.
While this may not become a regular occurrence for Ohio State, the aggressive approach in recruiting, demonstrated by the addition of Sayin and Noland, addresses concerns about quarterback performance in 2023. The move sets the stage for the future, especially with the commitment of Tavien St. Clair for 2025, a four-star quarterback. Ohio State’s proactive stance in quarterback recruitment, as seen with the Sayin addition, suggests a willingness to be assertive, particularly in navigating the dynamics of the transfer portal. This strategic approach is likely to continue under the leadership of Ryan Day.
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