Overview
- This week at Big Ten Media Days, head coach Ryan Day called Sayin's accuracy, intelligence and leadership "extraordinary" and said the quarterback has grown stronger and more vocal in the offseason.
- Day and multiple outlets reported that new offensive coordinator Arthur Smith is bringing pro‑style concepts from his NFL work with Aaron Rodgers and is challenging Sayin in practice and preparation.
- Sayin and top receiver Jeremiah Smith spent the offseason building chemistry so Sayin can be more aggressive taking downfield shots, and coaches say other weapons such as Bo Jackson and Brandon Inniss give the offense more options.
- Reports note the specific aim of the offseason work is to fix Sayin's weakness against interior pass rush and to cut late‑season turnovers that included a costly 72‑yard interception in last season's playoff loss.
- Ohio State enters the season projected among the nation's best and opens Sept. 5 at Ball State, with the key question now whether offseason gains and Smith's system will translate to cleaner pocket play in big games.