Ryan Day updates Ohio State’s QB battle, team identity, and leadership ahead of the Texas opener, emphasizing fundamentals and depth.

The season opener against Texas is just under three weeks away. Ohio State head coach Ryan Day addressed the media Monday to provide updates on the quarterback competition, team development, and overall readiness heading into the stretch run of fall camp.

The battle between Julian Sayin and Lincoln Kienholz is still ongoing, with Day confirming there is no clear starter yet. “They’re both getting the reps, and we’re preparing them both to be ready for the first game,” Day said.

“This will be each of their first starts, so we have to tailor things to what they do best.”

Day compared the current situation to the 2018 battle between Dwayne Haskins and Joe Burrow, citing similarities in skill sets, though noting every competition is unique. Both Haskins and Burrow went on to have successful collegiate careers, which is how Sayin and Keinholz project. 

By the two-week mark before kickoff, the Buckeyes will begin installing more of the Texas game plan while continuing competitive “good on good” work in practice.

Day acknowledged this year’s team is different from last year’s national champions, not better or worse, but distinct in makeup.

“This group is edgy, competitive, and full of energy,” Day said. “We’ve got a lot of new faces, so the first game will give us great feedback to continue building our identity.”

Several veterans who have played on the biggest stages, including Carnell Tate, Jeremiah Smith, Carson Hinzman, Luke Montgomery, and Austin Siereveld, are expected to provide stability on offense. Day reminds younger players that everyone has a first start, and consistent practice performance builds the confidence to handle the real thing.

The depth up front is encouraging to Day, emphasizing that the starting five must execute at a high level.

“You’ve got to carry the water,” Day said.

“Being a starter at Ohio State means dominating your position, not just filling in.”

In the secondary, safety Caleb Downs has taken command with confident communication and leadership. Cornerback Jermaine Mathews Jr. has shown maturity and is emerging as a leader who uplifts teammates while holding them accountable. The safety rotation remains undecided as of now, but hopes are for McClain and Hartford to hold down the back end if Downs slides to nickel.

Josh Boyer, who joined the staff this weekend, will contribute on both sides of the ball. He will assist Day with offensive strategy while also providing defensive insight. Boyer received much praise frrom Day and will be an intelligent addition to the staff, given his role assisting both sides of the ball. The specifics are still being worked out as Day mentioned game day is still undecided. 

According to a poll from the Columbus Dispatch, 95% of fans recently rated Day’s tenure as excellent or above average. Day’s response centered on staying focused on principles, development, and championships because that’s the standard at Ohio State. 

He closed with a direct appeal to fans ahead of the opener:

“We need the ‘Shoe rocking. It needs to be the loudest it’s ever been. Texas is a monster game right out of the gate, and our guys are preparing for it every moment.”

Ohio State opens the season ranked No. 3 in the AP Poll and No. 2 in the Coaches Poll. The Buckeyes welcome the top-ranked Texas Longhorns on August 30th.