UPDATE: Ohio State’s starting quarterback, Julian Sayin, is set for a pivotal showdown against No. 15 Michigan this Saturday, November 25, 2023, at The Big House. The Buckeyes aim to end a frustrating four-game losing streak against their rivals, known as “The Team Up North.”
Sayin, a redshirt freshman, has made a significant impact this season, leading the Football Bowl Subdivision with an impressive 79.4% completion rate and a 185.38 passing efficiency rating. He has thrown for 2,832 yards, with 27 touchdowns and only four interceptions. This game represents his opportunity for a defining moment in his young career.
“Lead the team to a victory. That’s it at the end of the day,” said Ohio State head coach Ryan Day in a press conference earlier this week. Sayin is tasked with maintaining composure and delivering under pressure against a formidable Michigan defense.
Sayin follows in the footsteps of notable Ohio State quarterbacks like Dwayne Haskins and Justin Fields, both of whom had stellar first seasons. Coach Sherrone Moore of Michigan noted, “Quarterback is elite,” emphasizing the potency of Ohio State’s passing game, which is considered one of the best in the country.
Despite Sayin’s achievements, injuries to key receivers have hampered the team’s deep-game strategy. Receiver Carnell Tate has been sidelined since a pregame injury against Purdue on November 8, and Jeremiah Smith has not played since November 15 due to injury. Sayin has adapted by building chemistry with other players, including Brandon Inniss and Max Klare.
In his rookie season, Sayin has already made history as the only second FBS quarterback in the past 40 years to achieve three games with at least 300 passing yards, three touchdowns, no interceptions, and a completion rate of at least 80%. His deep ball accuracy is particularly noteworthy, with a 95.9 grade on deep throws, second only to Oregon’s Dante Moore.
With the stakes high, Sayin is also a dark horse candidate for the Heisman Trophy. A standout performance against Michigan or in the upcoming Big Ten championship could elevate his profile significantly. However, Sayin remains focused on team success rather than individual accolades, stating, “I can get through my reads quicker… just trying to improve and keep growing my game.”
As the Buckeyes prepare for this critical matchup, fans and analysts alike are eager to see if Julian Sayin can deliver the performance needed to change the narrative and secure a victory over Michigan. This game not only has championship implications but also the potential to define Sayin’s future at Ohio State.
