Ryan Day reveals 1 change that could determine if Ohio State wins another national championship
The Buckeyes will need to see a different version of their quarterback to return to the top of college football in 2026.
Ryan Day just revealed one offseason development that could define Ohio State’s 2026 season, and it has nothing to do with Julian Sayin’s arm, his accuracy, or his command of the offense. It’s about his body. When discussing his starting quarterback at Big Ten Media Days this week, Day took time to praise how Sayin attacked the offseason, offering a telling assessment of the signal-caller’s physical transformation.
“You see a different person, you see a different body. He’s worked hard, he’s gotten stronger, he’s found his voice even more,” Day stated.
That added strength could be the biggest development for Ohio State this offseason. Sayin was phenomenal during most of last season. He protected the ball well, throwing 30 touchdowns against only five interceptions during the regular season, and he was sacked just six times during that stretch. When the offense stayed on schedule, and the pocket remained clean, he was one of the most efficient quarterbacks in college football.
Indiana and Miami exposed Sayin’s biggest weakness
However, against Indiana and Miami, two of the toughest defenses Sayin faced, everything changed. Both teams pressured him relentlessly, with each team sacking him five times each and Sayin tossing three picks across both games. Indiana finished fourth nationally in havoc rate while Miami ranked seventh. Those elite defenses exposed Sayin’s most glaring flaw. He struggled to escape pressure, extend plays, and consistently deliver the football when defenders were bearing down on him.
That’s exactly why Day’s emphasis on the added weight carries so much significance. Sayin doesn’t need to suddenly become a dual-threat quarterback, but he does need to become more confident and stronger in the pocket. He needs to do a better job of handling those tense situations, getting the ball out quicker, and punishing defenses when they send extra rushers.
Can a stronger Sayin carry Ohio State to another title?
Ohio State’s schedule is going to test him this year. If the Buckeyes want to survive their toughest tests and win a national championship in 2026, Sayin simply can’t look like the same quarterback he was against Miami and Indiana. He was already incredibly efficient during the regular season. Hopefully Julian Sayin version 2.0 can now handle that heat, and if so, Ohio State absolutely has what it takes to win another national title.