NFL
By: Owen Tyler
Ohio State came away from Bloomington with a massive 19-15 win over Indiana, but the victory came at a significant cost. Quarterback Julian Sayin suffered a right arm injury late in the fourth quarter, leaving the Buckeyes facing major questions about the rest of their season.
Head coach Ryan Day confirmed Tuesday that Sayin is out indefinitely. The injury comes at a difficult time for a Buckeyes team with championship expectations and a challenging schedule ahead.
Sayin’s Injury Changes Everything for Ohio State
Sayin’s injury is a major concern for an Ohio State offense that has relied on his consistency throughout the season. Before leaving against Indiana, the quarterback completed 15 of 29 passes for 235 yards, two touchdowns and two interceptions.
The timing makes the situation even more difficult. Ohio State still has several important games remaining, including matchups against USC, Oregon, Michigan, Nebraska, and Northwestern. With the College Football Playoff in sight, the Buckeyes cannot afford to spend too much time figuring out their offense.
Luke Fahey and Tavien St. Clair Face a Major Opportunity
With Sayin sidelined, Ohio State must determine who will lead the offense moving forward. True freshman Luke Fahey is the leading candidate after holding the backup role, but Tavien St. Clair will also have an opportunity to compete during the bye week.
Fahey has completed nine of 13 passes for 203 yards, two touchdowns and two interceptions this season. St. Clair has completed five of nine passes for 52 yards, one touchdown and one interception in limited action.
Day has indicated that Fahey has been ahead of St. Clair, but the coaching staff will have additional time to evaluate both quarterbacks before the next game.
Ohio State has dealt with quarterback injuries before, including during its 2014 national championship season. That history provides a reminder that a team can overcome adversity.
Jeremiah Smith Becomes Even More Important
One player who could have an even bigger role in Ohio State’s offense is wide receiver Jeremiah Smith. The star receiver has been one of the most productive players in college football this season and remains a major part of the Buckeyes’ championship hopes.
Smith recorded four receptions for 68 yards and a touchdown against Indiana. Through seven games, he has 52 catches for 984 yards and 12 touchdowns, putting him firmly in the Heisman Trophy conversation.
A change at quarterback could affect Smith’s production, especially if Ohio State has to rely on a less experienced passer. However, his ability to win matchups and create explosive plays gives the Buckeyes backup Qb’s a better chance.
The coaching staff will need to find ways to keep Smith involved while making life easier for whichever quarterback takes over. A strong running game and a dependable offensive line could also help take pressure off the new starter.
The Bye Week Comes at the Right Time
Ohio State’s bye week could not have arrived at a better time. The extra preparation gives the coaching staff an opportunity to evaluate its quarterback options, adjust the offensive game plan and prepare the team for the team playing without Sayin for the rest of the season.
The Buckeyes return to action on October 31 against USC. That road matchup will provide an immediate test for the offense, followed by games against Oregon, Northwestern, Nebraska and Michigan.
The upcoming schedule leaves little room for mistakes. Ohio State has the talent to compete with anyone in the country, but the quarterback situation could determine how far the team goes this season.
Ohio State’s Season Is at a Turning Point
Fahey and St. Clair have an opportunity to prove themselves, while the coaching staff must find the right way to adjust the offense. The defense and the running game could also become more important as Ohio State tries to protect its position among the nation’s top teams.
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