{
  "id": 4272362,
  "title": "Ohio State QB Julian Sayin takes charge as a team captain, bringing swagger to the huddle",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/08/29/ohio-state-qb-julian-sayin-takes-charge-as-a-team-captain-bringing",
  "topic": "culture",
  "section": "Culture",
  "published": "2026-08-29T20:23:02.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Associated Press",
    "slug": "associated-press",
    "url": "https://apnews.com/article/ohio-state-sayin-278f4971073cd5935671347bf406f0fb"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "COLUMBUS, Ohio (AP) — Julian Sayin, Ohio State's quarterback, has taken on a new role as a team captain and a more assertive leader this season. Sayin, who was elected as one of Ohio State's seven team captains, has been noticed for his increased confidence and vocal presence in the huddle.\n\nWide receiver Jeremiah Smith has observed a significant change in Sayin's demeanor, stating that he is now \"telling everybody to shut up\" during huddles, demonstrating his growing swagger as the top-ranked Buckeyes prepare for their season opener against Ball State on September 5.\n\nSayin's newfound confidence is well-deserved, given his strong performance during the fall camp last year. He led the nation with a 77% completion rate, throwing for 3,610 yards and 32 touchdowns while only throwing eight interceptions. Furthermore, Sayin was the first Ohio State quarterback to achieve two games with at least 85% completion rates for over 300 yards, at least three touchdowns, and no interceptions.\n\nThe familiarity with the team and the expectations placed on him in Ohio State's familiar environment have played a significant role in Sayin's growth as a leader. However, he acknowledges that he still needs to work on being more assertive and stepping out of his comfort zone. Ohio State's Coach Ryan Day, who was also a former quarterback, credits the transition of acquiring experience and facing the expectations of a season at Ohio State as a great teacher for Sayin's development.",
  "summary": "COLUMBUS, Ohio (AP) — Julian Sayin’s main focus during Ohio State’s fall camp last year was on winning the starting quarterback job. This season, there’s no doubt on who is commanding the huddle. Sayin…",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}