Ohio State is preparing for one of its biggest challenges of the season, and the Buckeyes will reportedly have a new quarterback leading the offense. According to CBS Sports, true freshman Luke Fahey is expected to start for No. 2 Ohio State in Saturday's matchup against USC, replacing injured quarterback Julian Sayin. The decision comes after Sayin suffered an injury to his throwing arm during Ohio State's 19-15 victory over Indiana on Oct. 17.
Sayin exited the contest in the fourth quarter and later returned to the sideline wearing a sling. Head coach Ryan Day later confirmed that the quarterback would miss several weeks. His absence creates a significant challenge for a Buckeyes team attempting to remain in the Big Ten championship race and strengthen its College Football Playoff position.
Fahey, a freshman from Mission Viejo, California, entered the Indiana game after Sayin's injury but completed neither of his two pass attempts. Through limited action this season, Fahey has completed nine of 13 passes for 203 yards, two touchdowns and two interceptions. Despite his lack of starting experience, Fahey entered the season ahead of former five-star recruit Tavien St.
Clair on Ohio State's depth chart. Day had previously indicated that both quarterbacks were competing for the starting role during the team's bye week. Now, Fahey appears positioned to receive his first collegiate start against a USC team looking to rebound from a disappointing loss.
The Trojans enter Saturday's contest with a 6-2 record after falling 24-7 to Wisconsin in their previous outing. For Ohio State, the challenge will be finding ways to support its young quarterback against a conference opponent on the road. The Buckeyes still possess considerable offensive talent, including standout wide receiver Jeremiah Smith, who has recorded 984 receiving yards and 12 touchdowns this season.
Ohio State could also lean more heavily on its rushing attack to help ease the pressure on Fahey. The Buckeyes enter the matchup with a 6-1 record and remain firmly in the national championship conversation. However, Sayin's injury has introduced uncertainty at the most important position on the field.
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