The Ohio State Buckeyes’ quarterback competition is shaping up to be one of the most intriguing storylines of the offseason as they prepare to defend their national championship. With Will Howard, the Kansas State transfer who led them to victory in 2024, now heading to the NFL, the focus shifts to finding his replacement for the 2025 season. The battle for the starting role features Alabama transfer Julian Sayin, returning player Lincoln Kienholz, and highly touted freshman Tavien St. Clair.
Though the decision is still months away, ESPN’s Jake Trotter has pointed to a clear frontrunner. In ESPN’s Big Ten spring preview, Trotter highlighted Sayin as the top candidate to take over. He noted that Howard was outstanding in his lone season at Ohio State and emphasized that Sayin, a highly ranked recruit, is currently the favorite. However, Sayin will need to fend off St. Clair, another elite prospect, to secure the starting job.
Sayin, a five-star recruit from Carlsbad, California, played limited snaps in four games last season after transferring from Alabama. His talent and potential have been widely recognized, and he holds an impressive NIL valuation of $1.1 million, ranking third in the Big Ten behind Ohio State teammates Jeremiah Smith and Caleb Downs, according to On3.
If Sayin secures the starting role and successfully follows in Howard’s footsteps, leading the Buckeyes to another championship run, his prominence and NIL value could rise significantly. The competition remains open, but as spring practices unfold, all eyes will be on Sayin as he looks to cement himself as Ohio State’s next star quarterback.
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