Julian Sayin briefly joined Alabama’s football team for a few practices in California before the Crimson Tide’s College Football Playoff Rose Bowl semifinal against Michigan. A five-star quarterback from the 2024 recruiting class, Sayin enrolled early and participated in practices ahead of the game, earning praise from Alabama’s coaching staff. Nick Saban expressed high praise for him, noting his accuracy, intelligence, and strong high school career, describing him as one of the best, most consistent players in the country.
However, a few weeks later, everything changed when Saban announced his retirement as Alabama’s head coach. Sayin was caught off guard by the news. “It was definitely a little surprising,” Sayin said, reflecting on the situation.
Following Saban’s retirement, athletic director Greg Byrne appointed Kalen DeBoer as the new head coach. Soon after, Sayin entered the transfer portal. He explained his decision by saying he didn’t feel a strong connection with the new staff, which led him to explore other opportunities, ultimately landing at Ohio State.
Sayin chose Ohio State primarily because of head coach Ryan Day’s reputation for developing quarterbacks. “I just wanted to be part of that,” Sayin said about the decision.
Now at Ohio State, Sayin spent his freshman year backing up Will Howard, playing in four games during the 2024 season, including a brief appearance in the Buckeyes’ playoff victory over Tennessee. Entering the national championship game, he has completed five of 12 passes for 84 yards and a touchdown.
Ohio State’s offensive coordinator, Chip Kelly, has high hopes for Sayin’s potential, drawing parallels to Saban’s earlier praise. “As high as he wants it to be,” Kelly said, noting Sayin’s talent and work ethic.
Sayin will compete for the starting job next season, with Kelly expecting a quarterback group that includes Sayin, Lincoln Kienholtz, and incoming freshman Tavien St. Clair. Since joining Ohio State, Sayin feels he has grown as a player, learning more about college football and the quarterback position.
Ohio State will face Notre Dame in the national championship game on Monday in Atlanta, with the game scheduled for 6:30 CT and broadcast on ESPN.
Leave a Reply