Is Julian Sayin the future of Ohio State football? Coach Ryan Day's recent press conference suggests the answer is a resounding yes, but with a crucial caveat: it's all about the team. Day's message was crystal clear: individual accolades are secondary to collective success. Let's dive into the key takeaways from Day's discussion with the media, where he not only recapped the thrilling win against Penn State but also offered insights into the upcoming clash with Purdue and, most importantly, the development of his promising quarterback, Julian Sayin.
Coach Day began his press conference reflecting on the victory over Penn State and immediately pivoting to the challenges that Purdue presents on the road. "This is all about getting the first first down and focusing on Purdue on the road, and that's it," Day emphasized, setting the tone for a week of unwavering focus.
But here's where it gets controversial... Day's comments on managing Julian Sayin's playing time, should Ohio State secure a significant lead, sparked debate: "Just win the game, I mean, that's it." He elaborated that individual achievements, including Sayin getting more reps, are secondary to the team's ultimate goal. This raises a question: Is it truly unselfish to prioritize winning above all else, even if it means potentially hindering the development of a future star? Or is this the kind of team-first mentality that breeds champions?
Moving on to James Peoples, Day expressed optimism about his improved performance against Penn State. "I saw somebody who has been practicing better and had a good run, broke a couple tackles, came up, showed some energy," he noted, hoping this momentum would carry over into the Purdue game. The Buckeyes need depth at running back, and Peoples' emergence could be a significant boost.
The core of the press conference, however, revolved around Julian Sayin. Day addressed Sayin's progress with cautious optimism. He stressed the importance of avoiding premature evaluations and instead focusing on continuous improvement. "We all have to avoid trying to...sit back and try to evaluate anything other than, all right, what do we need to get better at? What's going well?" he stated.
And this is the part most people miss... Day highlighted the crucial role of Sayin's teammates in his success. He emphasized that Sayin needs "a bunch of guys around him that he needs to make routine plays routinely." In other words, even a quarterback with Sayin's talent can only shine if the entire offense performs at a high level.
Day acknowledged Sayin's impressive throws and sound decision-making, noting that he's "put himself in a situation to allow us to reach our goals." But he also cautioned against complacency, reminding everyone that "we haven't accomplished anything. We're in the middle of the season and got a lot of football ahead of us."
When asked about Sayin's next steps, Day emphasized the need for consistency. "It just can't be a play or two or a half a season. It's gotta be consistent," he explained. He drew parallels to quarterbacks in college and the NFL, highlighting the importance of sustained performance over time, especially as opponents analyze and exploit weaknesses. "He's just getting started, which is very exciting for all of us," Day concluded, fueling the anticipation surrounding Sayin's future.
Addressing the health of offensive linemen Tegra Tshabola, Luke Montgomery, and Josh Padilla, Day indicated that at least two of the three would be practicing, suggesting a return to full strength for the offensive line.
Switching gears to the College Football Playoff rankings, Day dismissed their importance, urging his team and fans to ignore them. "It doesn't matter where you're ranked? Does not matter at all. Just keep winning, man, that's it," he declared. His message was clear: the only ranking that matters is the one at the end of the season.
Day also touched upon Tshabola's response to splitting time at right guard, emphasizing the coaching staff's role in motivating players and helping them reach their full potential. He stressed that consistency is key for Tshabola.
A logistical change was also discussed: moving the OSU band visit from Michigan week to the open week. Day explained that this decision was aimed at maintaining a consistent routine during the crucial final week of the regular season.
Day addressed the pressure Penn State applied to Sayin, acknowledging that facing a strong defensive line requires flawless technique. He emphasized the need for continuous improvement to achieve the team's ultimate goal of winning every game.
Day elaborated on what it means for Sayin to play "bigger than his size," highlighting his posture, ability to read coverages, and feel the rush. He also emphasized the importance of the offensive line's performance in allowing Sayin to step into his passes.
Addressing the challenges Ohio State has faced at Purdue in the past, Day acknowledged Purdue's pride and the quality of their coaching staff. He emphasized the need for the Buckeyes to be prepared and focused for the upcoming game.
Day reiterated his indifference to the CFB Playoff rankings, stressing that winning each game is the only thing that truly matters.
He also emphasized the importance of maintaining a consistent routine to avoid upsets. He used the analogy of "chopping wood and carrying water," emphasizing the need to focus on the mundane, boring tasks that are essential for success. He cautioned against complacency, warning that even small things can lead to defeat.
When asked whether winning a Heisman Trophy for OSU matters, Day responded that "everything matters," but that team success is the top priority. Individual accolades are a byproduct of winning as a team, he explained.
Day provided a detailed explanation of the mechanics of throwing deep, highlighting the importance of footwork, timing, and the receiver's route running. He also acknowledged Sayin's innate talent for throwing the deep ball.
He shared an anecdote about a deep pass to Carnell Tate that was drawn up at halftime, praising the players' ability to execute a play they hadn't practiced.
Day revealed that adding plays during a game happens "a few times a year," usually based on something the team is seeing.
He emphasized the importance of logistical decisions like moving the band visit, explaining that everything is done to maintain a consistent routine for the players.
Day explained that maintaining a routine is crucial because so many things change on a week-to-week basis. Consistency helps the players focus on what matters, he said.
Day praised freshman running back Bo Jackson for his consistency and ability to handle the workload.
Day refrained from comparing Sayin's accuracy to C.J. Stroud's, but he acknowledged Sayin's quick decision-making, rapid ball release, and pinpoint accuracy. He emphasized the importance of Sayin's work in the classroom to master run checks and protection checks.
Day recalled the moment he realized Sayin had the potential to be a playmaker, citing his performance in the first game and his poise under pressure.
He praised tight end Max Klare's development as a blocker, noting that the tight end position is a developmental one and that Klare is constantly being challenged to improve.
Day shared his perspective on how defensive coordinator Matt Patricia sees the defense, emphasizing the chemistry on the staff and the players' buy-in. He also noted the defense's resilience in the face of adversity during the Penn State game.
Day admitted that Sayin had some "bad habits" that needed to be addressed, but he also highlighted Sayin's natural ability to throw the ball off-platform. He recounted a story about correcting Sayin's throwing technique after seeing a video of him throwing passes across his body on social media.
Finally, Day reflected on the challenges of being a head coach, admitting that it's a constantly evolving job that requires adaptability and multitasking.
So, what do you think? Is Ryan Day right to prioritize team wins above all else, even if it means limiting Julian Sayin's playing time? Can Sayin live up to the hype and become the consistent, long-term quarterback the Buckeyes need? And what challenges do you foresee for Ohio State as they navigate the rest of the season? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
