Ohio State's Ryan Day reveals Julian Sayin working on 'biggest weakness'

Ohio State coach Ryan Day had a few months to mull over his approach to the 2026 season following the College Football Playoff Cotton Bowl loss to Miami. He met with the media on Tuesday and took questions on the state of the program with some offseason changes. 

The most obvious one is offensive coordinator Authur Smith taking over for Brian Hartline. What does this mean for Heisman Trophy finalist QB Julian Sayin? Day addressed his signal-caller's biggest weakness and how that will be an "X-factor" for the Buckeyes under center. Sayin will need to make more plays on the run this season. 

“We know that’s the X-factor that has to show up this year,” Day said about Sayin being a dual-threat passer. 

Ryan Day said Julian Sayin needs to make plays with his legs for Ohio State to be successful this season. “We know that’s the X-factor that has to show up this year,” Day said.

While Spring Ball is upon us and there's no true sense of urgency yet. However, it's clear Day wants to tackle the small adjustments now before fall camp. It's not a huge part of Sayin's game, but it could be used in a similar way to how Indiana used Fernando Mendoza last year. 

Outside of fixing one side of the offense, Day sees Ohio State utilizing an NFL style. He believes having Smith and Matt Patricia as defensive coordinator allows the Buckeyes to run its program in a capacity similar to what's expected at the next level. Day also believes this could be a hit on the recruiting trail as well.

More: Ohio State's Ryan Day faces backlash after NFL Combine

“I think he would tell you it’s a great place to go to work every day," Day said about Patricia staying in Columbus. "Does he have options, did he have options? Yes. But I think he’s found a lot of joy in working with the guys here.”

Ohio State’s 2026 Pro Day is scheduled for March 25. This will be a critical follow-up to the NFL Scouting Combine for top Buckeye prospects. Caleb Downs is expected to be one of the most watched in the process, aiming to solidify his draft stock following potential injury concerns.

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