Inside Lincoln Kienholz’s Secret Weapon That Could Decide Ohio State’s Thrilling QB Showdown
In Murphy’s article, Kienholz himself described how those experiences have helped him adapt and compete at the highest level.
“Just being an athlete helps, first and foremost,” Kienholz said. “Playing basketball, baseball, football. I think that helped me kind of get to the position I’m at right now.”
This multi-sport foundation gives Kienholz a distinct edge in the Buckeyes’ quarterback battle. Sayin, a five-star recruit and redshirt freshman celebrated for his arm talent, has been in Columbus for about a year and a half after transferring from Alabama following the surprise retirement of legendary Crimson Tide head coach Nick Saban in early 2024. While Sayin’s natural throwing ability has turned heads in camp, Kienholz’s athleticism and improvisational skills have kept the race extremely close.
In terms of experience, the redshirt sophomore has been in the Ohio State football program longer, but Sayin actually holds a slight edge in game action—having played in four games and taken 27 snaps at Alabama, compared to Kienholz’s single college appearance in the 2023 Cotton Bowl after starter Devin Brown was injured. As Brian Hartline prepares to call plays for the Ohio State offense for the first time in 2025 after splitting duties with Chip Kelly last season, the system now places a premium on mobility, quick decision-making, and run-pass option execution—all areas where Kienholz’s multi-sport background gives him an opportunity to shine.
The competition between Kienholz and Sayin is as intense as any in college football, with Day and quarterback coach Billy Fessler both praising Kienholz’s growth in leadership and command of the offense. While Sayin’s deep-ball accuracy and poise stand out, the three-sport phenom’s dual-threat capability and physical development—including a 33-pound increase since enrolling—make him an ideal fit for Hartline’s offense.
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