Ohio State’s quarterback competition remains “neck-and-neck” with no clear frontrunner emerging during spring practices, according to head coach Ryan Day.
Day told reporters that junior Lincoln Kienholz and sophomore Julian Sayin are virtually tied in the battle to replace Will Howard.
Sayin transferred from Alabama specifically to compete for the starting role with the Buckeyes.
Both quarterbacks are currently ahead of true freshman Tavien St. Clair in the competition. St. Clair, an early enrollee from Bellefontaine, Ohio, was ranked as a top-three quarterback recruit nationally.
The Buckeyes find themselves in the unusual position of having three former top recruits competing for the same position. Each quarterback was highly rated in their respective recruiting class.
While Sayin might be considered the favorite by many observers, Day’s comments suggest the competition will likely continue through summer and into fall camp.
The quarterback decision carries significant weight as Ohio State aims to build on last season’s national championship run led by Howard.
Day has not indicated when he plans to name a starter, potentially leaving the decision until just before the season opener in August.
