Julian Sayin: Profile, Journey, and Prospects

Main Takeaway: Julian Sayin, once a five-star recruit and dual-threat quarterback, quickly rose from a Carlsbad High School star to Ohio State’s starting quarterback. His strong arm, sharp field vision, and athletic skills create high hopes as he leads the Buckeyes into the 2025 season.

Early Life and High School Career

Julian Sayin was born on July 23, 2005. He grew up in Solana Beach, CA, and later went to Carlsbad High School. He is the son of Dan and Karen Brandenburg Sayin. His older brother, Aidan, played quarterback at the University of Pennsylvania. His sister, Bailey, played soccer at the University of Chicago.

As a freshman, Sayin sat behind his brother in high school. Then, he took the starting role as a sophomore. In his three seasons as Carlsbad’s quarterback, his passing stats were outstanding:

In his senior year, he guided Carlsbad to its fifth straight Avocado League title. He earned the 2023 Elite 11 Finals MVP. He was also picked for the Under Armour All-America Game and the Polynesian Bowl.

Sayin’s mix of accuracy, arm strength, and athleticism made him a top national quarterback. He was universally rated a five-star prospect, ranked as the nation’s No. 1 dual-threat quarterback by ESPN, and the No. 1 player in California by On3 and the 247Sports composite rankings.

Recruiting Process

In eighth grade, Sayin got his first scholarship offer. It came from Kenny Dillingham, who was the offensive coordinator at Florida State. By his junior year, he focused on top schools like Alabama, Georgia, LSU, Notre Dame, Texas, and Florida. On November 2, 2022, he chose to join the Alabama Crimson Tide. He was attracted by the program’s history and its growth under coach Nick Saban.

College Career

Alabama Crimson Tide

In December 2023, Sayin enrolled early at Alabama. He is getting ready for spring practices and will learn from veteran quarterbacks during the 2023 season. On January 19, 2024, he joined the NCAA transfer portal. This came after Saban’s retirement, and he hadn’t yet thrown a collegiate pass.

Transfer to Ohio State

On January 21, 2024, Sayin announced his decision to transfer to Ohio State. In his first month in Columbus, he landed big NIL deals with Panini America (trading cards) and The Foundation, an Ohio State collective.

During the 2024 season, Sayin appeared in four games, totaling 27 offensive snaps. His freshman collegiate statistics were modest but displayed promise:

He threw a 55-yard touchdown pass to tight end Bennett Christian. It was his only score in the game against Western Michigan.

Coaches praised his preparation, command of the offense, and growth during spring and fall camps, even with limited game time. His ongoing improvement in fall practices got him the starting quarterback job for 2025.

Ascension to Starting Quarterback

On August 18, 2025, head coach Ryan Day announced that sophomore Julian Sayin would start at quarterback in Ohio State’s season opener against No. 1 Texas. The decision wrapped up a close race between junior Lincoln Kienholz and true freshman Tavien St. Clair. Day cited Sayin’s “consistent play,” command of the offense, and growth over the last week of camp as decisive factors.

“ “It was a close competition. I think Julian separated himself really over the last week with his consistent play. Go get it, man. Play with confidence, because that’s what all the preparation rewards you with.” – – Ryan Day

Sayin’s appointment follows a proud tradition at Ohio State where first-year starters shine. Since 2014, quarterbacks starting their first season have put up strong records. Justin Fields finished 2019 with a 13–1 record, and C.J. Stroud ended 2021 at 10–2.

Skill Set and Playing Style

At 6 ft 1 in and 208 lb, Sayin isn’t the biggest quarterback. But his precise passing, sharp football IQ, and athletic playmaking really define his style.

• **Arm Talent:** Has a quick release and a tight spiral. Also, shows deep-ball accuracy that makes defenses stay alert. His performance at Elite 11 highlighted his ability to make every NFL-level throw.
• Field Vision & IQ: Sees coverages well, predicts receiver moves, and changes protections at the line. His leadership in practice has earned praise from coaches and teammates.
• Athleticism: Shows the skill to extend plays using his legs. He evades pressure and creates big rushing chances. While not a primary running threat, his mobility adds a valuable dimension.
• Resilience & Consistency: Overcame early-career ups and downs to deliver steady command of the offense in high-pressure fall camp practices.

Offensive Surroundings and Team Outlook

Ohio State returns a potent supporting cast around Sayin:

• Skill Talent: Wide receivers feature Jeremiah Smith, a sophomore who is a preseason Heisman contender. He has strong deep-threat ability. The team also boasts a group of proven playmakers.
• **Offensive Line:** Skilled veterans support an offensive line that is great at pass protection and creating a solid run game.
• Running Game: A group of backs who can keep drives going. This helps Sayin run the offense smoothly.
• Coaching Continuity: Ryan Day is in his seventh season. The offensive scheme is familiar, and play-calling is designed to maximize Sayin’s strengths.

Sayin’s depth and skill set the stage for his debut. Fans have high hopes for a run at back-to-back national championships.

Notable Milestones and Achievements

• Elite 11 Finals MVP (2023): Honored as the best player at the top quarterback showcase.
• Five-Star Recruit & Composite No. 1 QB (2024 class): Universally lauded by ESPN, 247Sports, and On3.
• Under Armour All-America & Polynesian Bowl Selection: Showcase appearances against elite peers.
• NIL Partnerships (2024): Early alignment with Panini America and The Foundation, reflecting marketability.
• OSU Scholar-Athlete Honors: Recognition of academic performance while adjusting to a new program.
• Starting QB Naming (2025): Won the Buckeyes’ top spot after a tough competition.

Challenges and Expectations

While momentum and team talent favor success, Sayin faces significant challenges:

1. High-Pressure Debut: Opening against top-5 Texas on national television with championship expectations.
2. Big Ten Toughness: A season full of tests against Penn State, Michigan State, and the rivalry with Michigan.
3. Consistency under Fire: Maintaining precision and decision-making amidst complex defensive schemes.
4. Legacy Building: Following legendary first-year starters and securing victories that cement leadership.

Success won’t just be about wins. It will also look at how players handle important matchups and remain composed in key moments.

Future Outlook

If Sayin lives up to high expectations, he could be the backbone of Ohio State’s offense for years. This might also set him up for a Heisman run. His trajectory suggests:

• **Short Term:** Show readiness by handling the opener against Texas. Build trust with receivers and the line.
• Mid Term: Guide the Buckeyes in Big Ten games. Keep the winning tradition alive and chase national championship dreams.
• Long Term: Position himself as an NFL prospect, building upon his dual-threat skill set and high football IQ.

Considering his age and four seasons left, Sayin’s path might resemble past Ohio State players. He could grow under Ryan Day and head to the NFL as a well-prepared talent.

In summary, Julian Sayin went from a star at Carlsbad High School to Ohio State’s starting quarterback. His journey shows quick growth and great potential. With strong skills, sharp thinking, and support around him, he is ready to meet high expectations and work toward college success. Continuous growth, consistency, and leadership will define his legacy in Columbus and beyond.