Eric Boggs
In the aftermath of Ohio State’s recent performance, a pressing question emerges: Is it time for Ryan Day to reassess his backup quarterback situation? The debate raged on during The OHIO Podcast, where hosts Eric Boggs and Chris Wilds critically evaluated Devin Brown’s role in the Buckeye offense and explored whether the freshman phenom’s, Julian Sayin and Air Noland, might deserve a chance to win the position.
The discussion centered on Brown’s struggles and his viability as a backup in a program with championship aspirations. Both Boggs and Wilds acknowledged Brown’s leadership qualities and competitive spirit, but they questioned whether his skill set is sufficient for the high demands of an elite program like Ohio State.
“I think these guys would be great MAC or FCS quarterbacks,” Wilds remarked, grouping Brown with fellow backup Lincoln Kienholz. “But I just don’t see it at a Power Four program.”
The stats seem to support their skepticism. Brown’s limited action in the second half of last weekend’s game raised eyebrows. His passing record? A lackluster 0-for-1, paired with just two rushing yards on three carries.
Some speculate that Brown’s limited appearances might serve as an audition for potential transfer destinations—a notion that Boggs quickly dismissed as misguided. “Ryan Day has no loyalty to other football teams,” Boggs stated. “His job is to win football games at Ohio State.”
The hosts expressed frustration over the lack of opportunities given to Air Noland, a standout in the spring game. “Of all the quarterbacks in the spring game, I thought he looked best,” Wilds said. “He runs the RPO better than anyone we’ve got, except maybe Will Howard because of his size.”
With the season progressing, the focus naturally shifts to the future of Ohio State’s quarterback depth chart. While Will Howard has solidified his status as the starter, the battle for the backup role could intensify with Noland, Sayin, and incoming talent Tavien St. Clair in the mix.
Head Coach Ryan Day addressed the situation on Tuesday during his press conference, acknowledging the challenge of balancing player development with the need to win games. “Devin is our backup right now, but Julian’s pushing hard,” Day said. “We’ll keep evaluating it every week.”
For Brown, the road ahead might include a transfer, a move that could align better with his abilities and provide him with more playing time. As Wilds noted, “If he loves Ohio State and wants to stay a Buckeye, we’ll support him. But realistically, his future might lie elsewhere.”
As Ohio State marches toward the postseason, the pressure on Day to optimize his quarterback depth will only increase. For now, it remains unclear who will secure the backup spot—or whether a new contender will emerge.
What is certain is that the Buckeyes’ quarterback saga will continue to dominate conversations, both on and off the field.
