Ohio State can still merit a top-five ranking without injured quarterback Julian Sayin, but its road test at USC will reveal whether the Buckeyes can win with a backup under pressure. Sayin is out indefinitely after being hurt against Indiana, and neither Luke Fahey nor five-star freshman Tavien St. Clair has proved ready to take over. Ohio State’s offensive line must protect the new starter and help establish the run against a USC defense led by veteran coordinator Gary Patterson.

By the Numbers
  • Ohio State allowed 9 sacks in its last 2 games.
  • Against Missouri in the 2023 Cotton Bowl, Devin Brown and Lincoln Kienholz combined to complete 10 of 23 passes for 106 yards.
Yes, But

Ohio State remains talented enough to win, and Sayin struggled under pressure before his injury. But a new quarterback making his first road start faces a vulnerable offensive line and a USC team with major postseason stakes.

State of Play
  • Sayin is out indefinitely; Fahey or St. Clair could start against USC.
  • USC is fighting to keep its College Football Playoff hopes alive, while Ohio State is ranked No. 2.
What's Next

Ohio State needs to protect its quarterback, lean on the ground game and show it can handle a high-pressure matchup without Sayin. The result could shape perceptions of the Buckeyes’ title chances as the playoff rankings approach.

Bottom Line

The USC game is a stress test for Ohio State’s quarterback depth and pass protection—and a chance for Ryan Day to show his program can develop a backup quickly.