Ryan Day’s admission about Julian Sayin after Ohio State beat Illinois could change everything for the Buckeyes going forward
Julian Sayin showed glimpses of his game changing in the Buckeyes’ Week 4 win, and it could completely change things for Ohio State going forward.
Ohio State Buckeyes quarterback Julian Sayin delivered his best performance of the 2026 season in a 42-19 win over Illinois on Saturday, throwing for 367 yards and four touchdowns while flashing a new element to his game.
The Buckeyes’ passing attack was the story of the day, but Sayin’s willingness to use his legs may have been the most encouraging development for Ohio State’s offense going forward.
Julian Sayin’s legs could be a bitter factor for the Buckeyes going forward
Sayin finished 27-of-36 passing with four touchdown passes and added a rushing touchdown on seven carries for 29 yards. The junior quarterback showed he can get out of the pocket and pick up yards when needed, highlighted by a key scramble on third down in the first half where he took the yards when they were given. That’s a real development for a player who simply didn’t do that last season.
On the season, Sayin is now up to two rushing touchdowns, which is two more than last season when he had zero. The coaching staff clearly made it a point of emphasis heading into the Illinois game, and Ohio State coach Ryan Day confirmed as much after the win.
“I would say that we’ve talked about it,” Day said. “But yeah, I mean, one of our jobs as coaches is challenge, challenge coaches, coaches challenge players, players challenge players. Sometimes the players will challenge the coaches. I thought you knew I like it when that happens. I love it when players challenge coaches. I think we need that a little more. But yeah, for sure, we challenged Julian this past week, and I thought he responded.”
The fact that Ohio State is pushing Sayin to run the ball adds another dimension to an offense that is already dangerous. Wide receiver Jeremiah Smith had 217 receiving yards against Illinois, and if Sayin can continue to use his legs, it gives defenses one more thing to worry about. The Buckeyes put up 518 total yards on the day, showing what a balanced attack can look like when the quarterback is willing to be a threat on the ground.
Through four games, Sayin has thrown for 1,206 yards with 10 touchdown passes and just one interception. If the junior quarterback can continue to play at this level, Ohio State is going to have a chance to accomplish its biggest goals this season. Saturday’s performance was a step in the right direction, and if Sayin’s legs remain a consistent factor, the Buckeyes’ offense could go to another level.
