The Buckeyes have a tough job this off-season—finding the right guy to step in for their standout QB, Will Howard. Ryan Day is dealing with a ton of roster churn right after finally snagging that national championship trophy. With a big chunk of the roster needing a major facelift, Day’s been all over the winter and spring transfer portals, filling the voids with a whole bunch of new blood. Still, the trick is finding a player who’s not just good enough to score big and chase another Natty but who also has that crucial presence and leadership in the locker room. Most are betting on Julian Sayin, but can he really channel that infectious Howard energy there in Columbus? That’s the time to answer. But regardless, there is no air of animosity among the contenders. Ohio State’s QB lineup (past and present) sends the message of unity across the world.

Julian Sayin competes with Lincoln Kienholz and Tavien St. Clair for the spot. Day has made it clear that he’s far from taking a final call now. The OSU coach also stated that the spot is out for fierce competition, and no one is an underdog. But it was just pen and paper. Julian Sayin, the top-ranked QB transfer out of ‘Bama from the 2024 class, has already flashed serious arm talent. His on-point accuracy has been the major highlight during high school and at Ohio State practices.

Sure, he is extremely adept with the quick release with a strong, robust arm. He capped off the year, amassing only 5 of 12 passes for 84 yards and a touchdown in four game appearances last season, following behind the backup. In the early spring practices, Lincoln Kienholz stole some spotlight. Thanks to his incredible poise in the scrimmage, that left room for some criticism for Sayin. St. Clair, on the other hand, kept the energy rolling. He, with a whopping 2,536 yards and 29 TDs in his senior year, acts as a strong contender for the starting spot. But all signs still hint at Sayin having a slight edge over the other two. But it’s not at the cost of the awe-inspiring spirit of brotherhood in the locker room.

While Howard publicly put Sayin on a pedestal for his ‘choice.’ Recently, the Alabama transfer posted a photo from practice in a ravishing black hoodie that garnered the Pittsburgh Steelers QB’s attention. Howard didn’t hesitate to come up in the comments and pat his back for a classy song selection. “Elite song choice, kid,” Howard wrote for his rumored successor. St. Clair, however, didn’t catch any bad trips. Rather, he subtly seconded Howard, dropping a diamond emoji for his peer cum brother.

Sayin picked up a Drake masterpiece rap to adorn his photo in the feed. No matter whether or not he can match Howard’s standard, he can match his music choice quite well. Howard’s comment is loudly giving away the claim. But it’s not the first time the former OSU QB sneaked into Sayin’s social media posts.

Amidst the constant recruiting tension and fierce competition, Sayin, back in February, posted a brief and cute anniversary message for his girl, Gabrielle Fowler. It’s their first, and it had to be a blast. But the best part is Will Howard entering the chat with a “Broooo this is hella cute!!” And, it’s no secret that Howard didn’t just limit his appreciation to the less impactful areas of his personal life and career.

Will Howard has long been on Julian Sayin’s team

The Buckeyes QB also deems him an ideal fit for Ryan Day’s offense. ”We just had a great vibe in that room, and we had a lot of fun together. And I’m excited for them to kind of take over and be the guys going forward. Because Julian is coming in,” Howard continued, “he’s a little soft-spoken guy, he’s quiet. But now it’s his time.” 

While the world is busy doubting Sayin’s potential to make an impact under the center, Howard batted for him like never before. “Julian’s one of the most accurate quarterbacks I’ve been around, and the ball just looks so pretty coming out of his hand,” Howard told reporters on Feb. 28. “Like it spins prettier than I’ve seen a lot of balls come out of quarterbacks’ hands. And he’s got a real chance to be elite, man.”

Will Howard, a quarterback, took the nation to the storm with a 74 percent completion percentage, has 2,685 yards passing, 26 touchdown passes with only 6 interceptions, and has rushed for 7 touchdowns.  Most importantly, he used to paint the mood of the team like a true leader. Sayin stepping in as a starter might still be a fantasy, but Howard believes it’s inevitable and it will be massive. “I’m excited for him. He definitely is stepping into that leadership position,” Howard cleared the stance, with his face beaming with hope. Now, it remains to be seen whether or not this hope dies soon (if at all) or translates to reality sooner. But rest assured, the QB culture at Columbus will continue blowing your mind no matter what.