Ohio State’s Julian Sayin takes the reins in the Cotton Bowl

Julian Sayin doesn’t sound overwhelmed. He sounds ready.

Ahead of tonight’s CFP quarterfinal, he was asked what it means to start a playoff game, Sayin smiled at the moment rather than shrinking from it. “It’s pretty fun,” he said. “I’m excited. Really cool atmosphere. You know, it’s awesome to see.” For a freshman quarterback, that tone has become the defining trait of his season.

Preparation, Sayin explained, has been steady and demanding. With extra time before knowing the opponent, Ohio State leaned heavily on competing against itself. “It’s been good to practice against our defense,” he said. “Playing against our defense, it’s been really challenging. We’re excited about this matchup.”

That matchup comes against a Miami defense Sayin clearly respects. “They’re really a fast defense. They’re coached really well. They have really good players,” he said. “They don’t give up many points, and it shows on tape…we have a really tough challenge against us. We have to focus on our execution as an offense.”

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Execution and composure are central to Sayin’s identity. Nicknamed “J Cool,” he sees poise as a responsibility. “Trying to be the calm in the storm for the team,” he said. “When things are good, just be even-keeled. And when things are bad, be even-keeled.”

Much of that mindset, Sayin credits to Ryan Day. “He’s been a big part of my development,” Sayin said, emphasizing Day’s constant message to stay level-headed.

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After a loss that left the offense frustrated, Sayin didn’t dodge accountability. “Execution-wise, it starts with me,” he said, noting the group was “a little bit pissed off” watching the film.

Still, at his core, Sayin says he hasn’t changed. He’s grown, matured, and learned the game, but he remains “that same kid who loves playing football, loves throwing touchdowns, and loves being with his teammates.” 

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