Ryan Day compares Ohio State's current QB battle to Joe Burrow, Dwayne Haskins' 2018 competition

Published in Sports and Competition on Wednesday, August 13th 2025 at 17:55 GMT by Sporting News
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The Buckeyes are yet to announce a starting quarterback.

Ryan Day Draws Parallels Between Ohio State's Current Quarterback Battle and the Iconic 2018 Competition

In a recent press interaction, Ohio State head coach Ryan Day delved into the ongoing quarterback competition within the Buckeyes' program, likening it to the high-stakes battle that unfolded in 2018 between Dwayne Haskins and Joe Burrow. Day's comments highlight the depth of talent and the competitive spirit that has defined Ohio State's quarterback room in both eras, underscoring how such rivalries can elevate the entire team. As the Buckeyes prepare for the upcoming season, this comparison serves as a reminder of the program's rich history of producing elite signal-callers and the challenges inherent in selecting a starter from a pool of promising options.

To understand the parallel Day is drawing, it's essential to revisit the 2018 quarterback saga. That year marked a transitional period for Ohio State following the departure of J.T. Barrett, a four-year starter who had become synonymous with the team's offensive identity. The competition boiled down to three talented contenders: Dwayne Haskins, a highly touted recruit with a strong arm and pocket presence; Joe Burrow, a transfer from within the program who had shown flashes of potential but was seeking a clearer path to playing time; and Tate Martell, a dynamic dual-threat option who added another layer of intrigue. The battle was intense, spanning spring practices and into the preseason, with each quarterback pushing the others to refine their skills. Ultimately, Haskins emerged as the starter, leading Ohio State to a successful campaign that included a Big Ten title and a Rose Bowl victory. His performance that season—throwing for over 4,800 yards and 50 touchdowns—catapulted him into the NFL as a first-round draft pick.

However, the story didn't end there for the other competitors. Burrow, feeling overshadowed and seeking greater opportunity, transferred to LSU. What followed was one of the most remarkable turnarounds in college football history. At LSU, Burrow blossomed into a Heisman Trophy winner in 2019, guiding the Tigers to a national championship with a record-breaking offensive display. His journey from Ohio State backup to NFL star with the Cincinnati Bengals exemplifies the "what if" scenarios that often arise from heated quarterback competitions. Martell, meanwhile, transferred to Miami and later UNLV, but his career never reached the heights anticipated. Day reflected on this period as a pivotal moment, noting how the competition fostered growth and resilience among the players involved. "It was a battle every day," Day recalled, emphasizing that the intensity of that room prepared Haskins for immediate success while motivating Burrow to seek his own path.

Fast-forward to the present, and Day sees echoes of that 2018 dynamic in Ohio State's current quarterback group. The Buckeyes are once again navigating a crowded and talented room, with no clear frontrunner emerging just yet. Leading the pack is Will Howard, a transfer from Kansas State who brings experience and a proven track record. Howard started 27 games for the Wildcats, showcasing his ability to manage games effectively and make plays under pressure. Behind him is Devin Brown, a returning player who has been with the program and is eager to prove himself as a viable starter. The room is further deepened by underclassmen like Lincoln Kienholz, who offers developmental upside, and highly recruited freshmen Julian Sayin and Air Noland. Sayin, in particular, stands out as a former Alabama commit who flipped to Ohio State, bringing elite arm talent and poise that have already generated buzz in early practices. Noland, another blue-chip prospect, adds to the mix with his athleticism and potential for long-term growth.

Day's comparison isn't just nostalgic; it's strategic. He pointed out that, much like in 2018, the current competition is driving daily improvements across the board. "You've got guys who are all capable of playing at a high level," Day said, stressing that the battle is about more than just naming a starter—it's about building a quarterback room that can withstand injuries, adapt to game situations, and contribute to the team's overall success. He highlighted the importance of practice reps, film study, and leadership development, noting that the 2018 experience taught him valuable lessons in managing egos and fostering a collaborative environment. In that year, the competition didn't fracture the team; instead, it created a sense of urgency and excellence that carried over into the season. Day believes the same could happen now, especially as Ohio State aims to rebound from recent disappointments, including back-to-back losses to Michigan and a failure to reach the College Football Playoff in the last campaign.

One key similarity Day emphasized is the blend of experience and raw talent. In 2018, Haskins had the edge in arm strength and decision-making, while Burrow brought grit and intelligence. Today, Howard's veteran savvy contrasts with the untapped potential of Sayin and Noland, creating a similar dynamic where no one can afford to coast. Day also touched on the transfer portal's role in modern college football, which has amplified these battles. Just as Burrow's departure opened doors for him elsewhere, current players know that opportunities abound if they don't secure the starting spot. Yet, Day is focused on retention and development, encouraging his quarterbacks to view the competition as a positive force. "It's about getting better every day," he stated, drawing a direct line to how Haskins and Burrow both benefited from the rivalry, even if their paths diverged.

The implications of this quarterback battle extend beyond the position itself. Ohio State boasts a loaded roster, with returning stars on offense and defense, making the quarterback decision crucial for maximizing the team's potential. Day's offense, known for its explosiveness and reliance on precise passing, demands a leader who can distribute the ball to playmakers like Emeka Egbuka and TreVeyon Henderson. A prolonged competition could delay chemistry-building, but Day sees it as an asset, much like in 2018 when the uncertainty ultimately forged a resilient unit. As spring practices continue and fall camp approaches, all eyes will be on how this battle unfolds. Will Howard solidify his role as the steady hand? Could a freshman like Sayin make a surprising leap? Or will Brown capitalize on his familiarity with the system?

In summing up his thoughts, Day expressed optimism that history could repeat itself in the best way possible—producing not just a capable starter, but potentially multiple future stars. The 2018 competition, after all, gave the world both Haskins' immediate impact and Burrow's legendary rise. For Ohio State fans, this current saga represents both excitement and uncertainty, a testament to the program's ability to attract top talent and the challenges of harnessing it. As Day put it, "These are the kinds of problems you want to have," signaling that the Buckeyes' quarterback depth is a strength, not a liability, in their quest for national contention. With the season on the horizon, the resolution of this battle could define Ohio State's trajectory, much like it did six years ago. (Word count: 1,048)

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