Seventy points. That’s the headline number for the demolition of Grambling State, a 70-0 spectacle where Ryan Day’s Buckeyes looked like they were playing in rookie mode. But buried in that box score is the story of quarterbacks, a QB subplot that could shape the Buckeyes’ season. The dynamic between Lincoln Kienholz and Julian Sayin. And that subplot was defined in five words. 

When Lincoln Kienholz stepped up to the mic after his 6 for 7, 71-yard, one-touchdown day, he sent a message loud enough for Julian Sayin to hear it. “I’m going to keep pushing Julian,” he said via Eleven Warriors on Wednesday. For a kid who hadn’t thrown a live pass since the disastrous Cotton Bowl cameo against Missouri, where he looked more rattled than ready, Saturday was redemption. 

Lincoln Kienholz looked smooth, accurate, even sneaky-elusive on a scramble before giving way to freshman Tavien St. Clair. His 88.1 PFF grade topped Julian Sayin’s 80.2, a stat line sure to spark whispers among fans. But he wasn’t starting QB hunting. His five-word warning was iron sharpening iron. “Just keep making sure he’s on his stuff,” he added. “He’s elite to go out there and be our guy, be our starter, and also be a guy to help him if he needs anything.” That’s the kind of line that sounds like support but carries a quiet bite. The kid wants his shot.

Julian Sayin’s resume is short but already telling. Against No. 1 Texas, he played conservatively, completing 13 of 20 with a touchdown in a 14-7 slugfest. Against Grambling State, he impressed with 18 of 19 for 306 yards, four touchdowns, and even a school-record 16 straight completions. The vibe was so good that Ryan Day practically laughed the red-zone pick off, saying Better now than in November. And now, he’s even finding himself on the comparison ladder. 

After Lincoln Kienholz’s words, Julian Sayin gets compared with Will Howard

This is where Carnell Tate’s words draw an interesting parallel. Asked to compare Will Howard’s arm to Julian Sayin’s, the freshman wideout didn’t hesitate. “Yeah, Julian, when he throws the ball, he’s special. He was born with it; he got it. He has a special ball for sure,” he said. “Yeah, he definitely don’t throw no fastball, but he threw a very catchable ball.” Howard, last season’s rock-solid presence, was about grit and reliability. Sayin might have that same poise, but with a smoother, more natural stroke. 

Against Texas, Julian Sayin played the game manager role. Against Grambling, he morphed into a flamethrower. Two weeks, two identities, both successful. So here’s where Ohio State stands. They got a starter who looks born for the role, and a backup determined to chase him down. Lincoln Kienholz’s five-word vow ensures the current QB1 doesn’t get comfortable, while early flashes suggest he might have the tools to become more than just the next Buckeye QB.

It’s the best kind of problem for Ryan Day. Two QBs pushing each other, one record-setting offense, and a season where nothing is guaranteed except drama.