Ohio State QB Race, Smith Guarantees Win vs Michigan

Ohio State enters the 2025 college football season as reigning national champions but faces uncertainty at quarterback after Will Howard's move to the NFL. Five-star Alabama transfer Julian Sayin is the frontrunner to start, impressing coaches and teammates—including star receiver Jeremiah Smith—through offseason workouts and spring practices. Smith, a pivotal player in last year's title run, has praised Sayin's arm talent, intelligence, and emerging leadership, and has publicly guaranteed Ohio State victories over Michigan for the next two years. Despite key NFL departures, Smith remains confident in the Buckeyes' championship prospects. Sayin will lead an offense featuring Smith and other top receivers. Ohio State opens its 2025 campaign against Texas on August 30.