Ohio State is layering its roster in advance of a season-opening showdown with top-ranked Texas, with Julian Sayin officially named the Buckeyes’ starting quarterback. The freshman has separated himself with steady play and improved decision-making, Day said, giving Ohio State a clearer path at the most important position heading into the opener.
Around Sayin, Ohio State is also building depth and versatility across the rest of the lineup. The Buckeyes intend to rotate on the offensive line again, a strategy they used during the College Football Playoff run, with six or seven linemen trusted to contribute. At running back and tight end, Day indicated the group is deep enough to keep players fresh and versatile for different packages. Austin Siereveld will start at left tackle after a standout offseason, and Day added there are two or three more linemen who will work in as well.
In the backfield and at receiver, Ohio State expects a robust rotation, and Day emphasized the need for routine, high-efficiency plays. The depth at tight end is particularly strong, with multiple players ready to contribute in a variety of roles.
Special teams features a competition at punter, with incumbent Joe McGuire trying to hold off Nick McLarty, who has shown notable improvement this preseason. Both McGuire and McLarty could see game action in punting duties.
In the secondary, Jaylen McClain and Malik Hartford are both ready to start at safety, though Day did not specify which will open as the first-team strong safety. The coaching staff has noted each player’s improvement and consistency in their performances. Caleb Downs has drawn praise from defensive coordinator Matt Patricia for his football savviness and his ability to stay around the ball, making him a valuable option at nickel.
Patricia also highlighted the versatility of Arvell Reese and Sonny Styles, two linebackers who can impact both the run and the pass game. Defensive line coach Larry Johnson has faced the challenge of integrating four new starters into the front, but Day said the unit is progressing well and that the defense should benefit from clearer roles as the season begins.
The coaching staff also touched on Tavien St. Clair, who remains in the quarterback mix as the clear third option, and Max Klare, described as talented and explosive with the ball in his hands. Klare’s preparation this fall has set him up to contribute when called upon.
On quarterback development, Day explained that the goal is to identify players who can throw accurately and manage multiple styles, so the offense can tailor itself to the quarterback’s strengths. He likened developing a quarterback from their freshman season to raising a son—rewarding but with challenges, underscoring the long view Ohio State takes on growth and readiness.
Leadership within the team is recognized in captains Austin Siereveld and Inniss, who have earned trust through consistency and performance. Siereveld and Inniss, who were named captains after spring practice and through the leadership committee process, have taken on roles that help set the tone for the team.
Defensive coordinator Patricia spoke about preparing for Texas and Arch Manning, noting Manning’s strong arm and the challenge of keeping the defense clean and disciplined on game day. He also praised Sayin’s processing and decision-making under tempo and said Downs’ football IQ and communication make him an asset around the ball.
What to watch in Week 1:
– Sayin’s command and rhythm from the start, and how well the offensive line protects him as he lets it rip.
– The early rotation on the offensive line and which five start, plus how the depth players contribute on three- or four-man packages.
– The punting battle between McGuire and McLarty and how the special teams handle field position against a top opponent.
– Safety rotations between McClain and Hartford and how Downs’ football savviness shows up near the ball.
– Defensive line integration under Johnson as they face a potent Texas offense, and how Reese, Styles, and Downs are deployed in multiple packages.
Summary
Ohio State enters the Texas game with a clearer quarterback plan in Sayin and a deeper, more flexible roster across both lines and the skill positions. The coaching staff is prioritizing consistency, protection, and playmaking reliability, while building leadership and depth that should pay dividends over a demanding season. If Sayin can translate his practice progress to game speed and the line and playmakers deliver, the Buckeyes project to present a balanced, adaptable attack against a challenging Texas squad.
Positive angle
The depth and leadership emergence give Ohio State a strong foundation to weather a long season, with a quarterback who has grown into the role and a defense eager to prove itself behind a retooled but cohesive unit.
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