Ryan Day has big praise for this underrated aspect of Julian Sayin's game

Ohio State has already been through a few dogfights this season. Last week on the road against Washington was a physical battle and, with Illinois, Penn State and Michigan on the upcoming schedule, there will be more dogfights in the future.

That means points will be harder to come by, even with the Buckeyes' explosive offense and seemingly little plays can prove to be the difference in a tight game. Ryan Day understands this and continues to see the growth from quarterback Julian Sayin in his decision-making.

"I like the way he extended plays. Even on an extension where you're running, and you're getting three yards, second-and-7 is better than second-and-10 or taking a sack," Day said. 

In his first road start, Sayin was efficient, going 22-of-28 for 208 yards and two touchdown passes. He only rushed for 12 yards total, but had a big scramble on third-and-long to turn a 46-yard field goal into a 34-yarder. Jayden Fielding made the kick and the Buckeyes extended their lead to 17-6, making it a two-possession game early in the fourth quarter. 

Day said that Sayin showed maturity at that moment, understanding the situation and what was necessary to make sure that Ohio State got points on that possession.

"​"A big play for him was the 3rd-and-17....I think he scampered for like 12 yards and shortened the field goal, which adds to the percentage of make there. That's all like really great teaching moments for somebody who has had only four starts.""

Ohio State head coach Ryan Day

Early in the game, Sayin had another nice scramble on a 3rd-and-7 that gained six and gave Ohio State a chance on a fourth-and-1 at the Washington 5. The Buckeyes got stuffed on the next play, but Sayin protected the football in the red zone, something he would do for the rest of the game. He never put the Buckeyes' tremendous defense in a bad position. 

​Day understands that Ohio State will have more games like last Saturday, and for Sayin to already understand the right decisions to make based on the situation bodes well for the rest of the season. 

"When we're in a game like that where both teams are huddling and the possessions are at a premium, these decisions are critical," Day explained. "Great learning experiences for him, understanding how that works and for our team in general."