The Ohio State football team came into this season with a lot of expectations. After winning the national championship a year ago, they thought they had a real shot to win back-to-back titles. Of course, that would mean that Julian Sayin would need to play well.
Sayin, a redshirt freshman, was one of the best recruits in the 2024 recruiting class. He transferred from Alabama once Nick Saban decided to retire and redshirted last season. As the starter, he has been fantastic for the Buckeyes, leading them to an undefeated regular season.
Despite a rough game against Indiana, Sayin is still one of the best players in the country. In fact, he has been named as a finalist for the ultimate honor in college football, being named a finalist for the Heisman Trophy. He is looking to be the first Buckeye to win it since 2006.
Ohio State quarterback Julian Sayin names Heisman Finalist
Sayin has put together a strong season. He has thrown for 3,323 yards, 31 touchdowns, and six interceptions. He has completed 78.4 percent of his passes, which leads the country. Sayin is one of the reasons why the Ohio State Buckeyes are still favored to win the national title.
Unfortunately, Sayin likely won't win the award. After Indiana beat Ohio State in the Big Ten Championship, Fernando Mendoza will likely get the nod. That game was essentially a duel for the Heisman, as both quarterbacks have been two of the best players in the country all year.
The last Heisman Trophy winner to come from Ohio State was Troy Smith back in 2006. Since then, Justin Fields, Chase Young, and C.J. Stroud have all been finalists. Sayin has now joined that illustrious group of players. It would be great if he were to somehow win the award.
Sayin would like to win a national championship more than the Heisman. That goal is still on the table.