As Ohio State gears up for the next chapter in its storied football legacy, the quarterback room has become the center of attention in Columbus. With Kyle McCord having transferred and Devin Brown and Lincoln Kienholz still developing, the Buckeyes find themselves at a crucial juncture. Head coach Ryan Day and offensive coordinator Chip Kelly are evaluating a talented pool of signal callers who could shape the program’s future, both in the short term and for years to come. Here’s a deep dive into the top contenders vying to lead one of college football’s most prominent offenses.
First on the list is Devin Brown, a redshirt sophomore who has been in the Buckeyes’ system long enough to understand the offense thoroughly. Brown was a four-star recruit coming out of Utah and has impressed with his arm strength and confidence. Though he missed out on the starting job last season, Brown’s experience and familiarity with the playbook give him a leg up heading into fall camp. Coaches admire his leadership and competitive drive, and he has shown flashes of being a capable starter when healthy. If he can stay consistent and avoid turnovers, Brown might finally get his shot under center.
Lincoln Kienholz, a second-year quarterback out of South Dakota, is another name generating buzz. Though considered a developmental prospect when he arrived, Kienholz has grown rapidly in the Buckeyes’ system. His dual-threat capabilities make him a tantalizing option in an era where mobility is increasingly valued. Kienholz showed poise in limited snaps last season, and the coaching staff has praised his work ethic and intelligence. While he may still be a year away from being a full-time starter, a strong fall camp could fast-track his rise.
Perhaps the most intriguing name in the mix is Julian Sayin, the five-star quarterback who transferred in after a brief stint with Alabama. Sayin was one of the most polished quarterbacks in the 2024 recruiting class, known for his quick release, accuracy, and advanced football IQ. While he’s yet to take a snap at the college level, his raw talent and high ceiling have already made waves during offseason workouts. Sayin’s presence has injected excitement and added competition to the quarterback room, and if he adapts quickly to the college game, he could make a legitimate push for the starting job as a true freshman.
Adding even more depth to the position is Air Noland, another highly-rated freshman who committed to the Buckeyes with considerable fanfare. A left-handed passer with a big arm and natural playmaking instincts, Noland has all the physical tools needed to succeed in Columbus. While he’s likely not the immediate answer, Noland represents the future of the program. His development over the next year will be closely watched, and in the right circumstances, he could emerge as a contender sooner than expected.
Of course, the wild card in this quarterback competition is transfer portal activity. Ryan Day has proven he’s not afraid to bring in outside talent if it benefits the team, and the landscape of college football now allows for mid-year adjustments. Should injuries or performance issues arise, the Buckeyes could look to bring in a veteran presence to steady the ship.
What makes this quarterback battle particularly fascinating is the balance between proven experience and untapped potential. Ohio State isn’t just looking for a game manager—they need a playmaker who can thrive under pressure, distribute the ball to an elite group of receivers, and lead the team to the College Football Playoff. With one of the nation’s most talented rosters, the margin for error is small, and the expectations are sky-high.
Spring practices have already given a glimpse of what each contender brings to the table, but fall camp will be the true proving ground. The competition will be fierce, and it may take several weeks into the season before a clear leader emerges. Ryan Day has consistently developed top-tier quarterbacks, and whoever wins the job will be handed the keys to a Ferrari of an offense—complete with All-American pass catchers and a dominant offensive line.
Ultimately, Ohio State’s quarterback future is brimming with promise. Whether it’s the steady hand of Devin Brown, the athleticism of Lincoln Kienholz, the polish of Julian Sayin, or the upside of Air Noland, the Buckeyes are well-positioned to remain in the national title conversation. The only question is: who will seize the opportunity and become the next great quarterback in scarlet and gray?
