Ohio State’s QB Julian Sayin Draws Comparisons to Former Michigan Star: A New Rivalry in the Making
As the 2025 college football season approaches, all eyes are on Ohio State’s new quarterback, Julian Sayin, whose arrival in Columbus has set the stage for what could be one of the most exciting quarterback rivalries in recent history. Sayin, a five-star recruit who signed with Ohio State in the 2024 recruiting class, is already being compared to one of Michigan’s all-time great quarterbacks: Tom Brady.
This comparison is not one that is taken lightly. Tom Brady, widely regarded as the greatest quarterback of all time, spent his college years at Michigan, where he was largely overlooked before becoming the NFL’s all-time leader in Super Bowl victories. His success in the pros is legendary, but in college, he was known for his leadership, poise under pressure, and ability to elevate his teammates—traits that many feel Sayin possesses in abundance.
### A Rising Star
Julian Sayin arrived at Ohio State after a standout high school career in California, where he was celebrated for his exceptional arm strength, football IQ, and ability to make quick, decisive decisions in high-pressure situations. Throughout his recruitment, Sayin impressed coaches and scouts alike with his maturity and his penchant for leading his team in high-stakes moments.
During his senior season, Sayin threw for over 3,500 yards and 40 touchdowns, leading his team to a state championship appearance. His poise in the pocket, similar to Brady’s in college, is one of the qualities that has scouts buzzing. While Sayin’s physical attributes are certainly impressive, it’s his mental toughness and unshakable confidence in high-pressure situations that have some comparing him to Brady, a player known for thriving in adversity.
### A Strong Start at Ohio State
When Sayin enrolled at Ohio State, he immediately became the center of attention. The Buckeyes have long been known for producing elite quarterbacks, from Heisman winners like Troy Smith and Justin Fields to NFL stars like Dwayne Haskins. Expectations for Sayin are high, and so far, he’s met them.
Sayin quickly caught the eye of head coach Ryan Day and offensive coordinator Brian Hartline during the team’s spring practices, showing off not only his physical skills but also his leadership on and off the field. His ability to connect with his receivers and make quick decisions under pressure impressed coaches, and by the time the team hit fall camp, Sayin was already being touted as a future star.
### The Michigan Comparison
For Ohio State fans, the idea of a new quarterback being compared to a Michigan legend like Tom Brady is an interesting twist in a longstanding rivalry that dates back more than a century. The Michigan-Ohio State rivalry is one of the most intense in all of college football, and the stakes have only gotten higher with each passing season. Both schools have a rich tradition of producing elite talent, and a high-profile quarterback comparison only adds fuel to the fire.
The comparison to Brady, in particular, raises the stakes. Brady’s underdog story—where he went from a backup at Michigan to a sixth-round pick in the NFL draft—has become the stuff of legend. His ability to overcome adversity, perform under pressure, and eventually lead the New England Patriots to six Super Bowl titles has made him a household name.
For Sayin, the challenge will be replicating Brady’s calmness in high-pressure moments, as well as his ability to elevate his game when the spotlight is brightest. Ohio State’s schedule is always loaded with marquee matchups, including the annual showdown against Michigan, and Sayin will be expected to shine in these pivotal games, much like Brady did in his time with the Wolverines.
### What Makes Sayin Different
While the Brady comparison has garnered significant attention, it’s important to note that Sayin is his own player. While he shares some qualities with Brady, such as his poise under pressure and leadership, Sayin is known for his versatility and ability to make plays with his legs, something Brady was never particularly known for. Sayin’s athleticism could allow him to do things in the Ohio State offense that Brady, with his more traditional style, might not have been able to.
Moreover, Sayin’s deep ball accuracy and ability to stretch the field with precision passes could give the Buckeyes’ high-powered offense a unique element that hasn’t been seen in recent years. His arm strength, combined with his ability to make quick decisions, makes him a potential game-changer for Ohio State’s offense.
### The Rivalry Heats Up
The comparisons to Brady have undoubtedly created a narrative that will follow Sayin throughout his career. With Michigan’s ongoing success under head coach Jim Harbaugh and their powerful team, especially at quarterback, Sayin’s performance against the Wolverines in the annual Ohio State-Michigan game will likely be one of the defining moments of his early career. For Ohio State fans, the idea of having a quarterback who could potentially carry the same type of underdog, hard-nosed mentality that Brady did at Michigan has them excited for the future.
In the coming years, expect the rivalry between Ohio State and Michigan to reach new heights as Sayin’s career unfolds. As long as he can live up to the lofty comparisons and rise to the occasion in the biggest games, Julian Sayin could end up being one of Ohio State’s all-time greats—and perhaps even a thorn in Michigan’s side, just like Brady was for years.
With the college football landscape always evolving, one thing is certain: the Sayin-Brady comparison will remain a major talking point for years to come, especially as Sayin’s journey unfolds in the crucible of the greatest rivalry in college sports.
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