Julian Sayin vs. Josh Hoover: Two Different Paths, Same Championship Ambitions

What do a five-star quarterback from California who once committed to play for Nick Saban and a three-star prospect from Texas who nearly started his career at Indiana have in common? More than you might think.

Ohio State's Julian Sayin and Indiana's Josh Hoover took different paths to get where they are today, but both share the same goal of winning a national championship.

Julian Sayin was supposed to be the next big thing at Alabama.

A five-star recruit, he committed to the Crimson Tide with plans to play for Saban.

Then Saban retired, and Sayin’s plans changed.

He pivoted to Ohio State — a decision that has worked out pretty well for both sides.

Sayin spent the 2024 season learning from the sideline, serving as the backup to Kansas State transfer Will Howard.

While Sayin waited, Howard led the Buckeyes on a College Football Playoff run that ended with a national championship.

Then it was Sayin’s turn.

Taking over the Ohio State offense came with a bonus that any quarterback would dream about: Jeremiah Smith.

I had the luxury of throwing to Jeff Samardzija.

Anthony Fasano and Maurice Stovall during my time at Notre Dame.

I quickly learned that an elite pass-catcher can be a quarterback's best friend, and Sayin and Smith have developed a strong connection.

Sayin is finding his star receiver again and again as Smith continues to rewrite the Buckeyes’ record book.