Devin Gardner boasts about coaching Julian Sayin: ‘I’m just telling you, ultra talented’

Arch Manning is not the only new quarterback entering the spotlight Aug. 30 in Columbus. Ohio State will trot out Julian Sayin out there against Texas for his first career start. Sayin won the Buckeyes quarterback battle against Lincoln Kienholz, head coach Ryan Day recently announced.

Plenty of people are high on Sayin’s potential. But when a former Michigan quarterback starts to sing your praises, ears perk up a little more. Devin Gardner got a chance to see Sayin when he was in high school and to this day remains impressed with what the second-year player possesses.

“A little more on that Texas-Ohio State game, don’t forget Ohio State is breaking in a new quarterback, Julian Sayin,” Gardner said while calling Saturday’s Fresno State–Kansas game. “I’m just telling you, ultra talented. I remember coaching him at the Elite 11 and being very impressed with just his ability to make any throw. Obviously, there’s no defense and things like that. But very cool.”

Sayin played high school football at Carlsbad (CA), where he was a Five-Star Plus+ prospect. He was the No. 8 overall recruit in the 2024 cycle, according to the Rivals Industry Ranking, a weighted average that utilizes all four major recruiting media companies.

When Gardner saw him throw at the Elite 11, Sayin was committed to play for the Alabama Crimson Tide. Shortly after signing, Nick Saban decided to step away from the program and retire. Sayin quickly entered the NCAA transfer portal and landed at Ohio State.

Now, the time has come to lead the Buckeyes out there. There is just an eyelash of experience, playing in four games during the national championship-winning 2024 season. Sayin threw 12 passes, completing five for 84 yards. The first touchdown of his career came in the season opener against Western Michigan.

This first game will be a little different. Texas boasts one of the best defenses in college football, looking to attack Sayin when given the opportunity. Ohio State counters with an elite group at wide receiver, headlined by Jeremiah Smith. Plenty of options will be there when Sayin steps back to pass.

Gardner believes the ability to deliver is there, based on previous Elite 11 experiences. He likely is not cheering for the young man come late November, hoping Michigan can extend its rivalry winning streak to five games. However, high praise from somebody on the other side is always eye-opening.