Ohio State QB Julian Sayin struggles with rushing game

In the United States, Ohio State quarterback Julian Sayin had a remarkable debut season as a starter in 2025. He threw for 3,610 yards, achieving 32 touchdowns and only eight interceptions, which helped lead the Buckeyes to a 12-2 record. This performance included reaching the Big Ten Championship Game and an appearance in the College Football Playoff. Sayin's impressive season also earned him a fourth-place finish in the Heisman Trophy voting, showcasing his potential as a top player in college football. Ohio State coach Ryan Day praised Sayin's achievements, highlighting his success in the rivalry game against Michigan and his undefeated regular season. However, despite these accolades, concerns have been raised about Sayin's performance, particularly regarding his rushing ability. An anonymous Big Ten defensive coordinator pointed out that Sayin is not a very big player and has been reluctant to run the ball. This observation is significant, as Sayin recorded -44 rushing yards last season, largely due to the 16 sacks he endured. His longest run was only 12 yards, indicating a lack of comfort in utilizing his athleticism to escape pressure. The defensive coordinator noted that teams that pressured Sayin effectively were able to disrupt his game, as he tends to stay in the pocket rather than rolling out or making plays with his feet. This aspect of his game could be a critical area for improvement as he looks to build on his successful debut season in the upcoming years.