Ohio State quarterback Julian Sayin is healing from a fractured elbow suffered in last month's win at Indiana, coach Ryan Day said Thursday. Day stopped short of giving a return timeline but indicated the recovery is on a positive track.
Sayin underwent surgery and missed the Buckeyes' loss at USC. With a 6-2 record and No. 12 in the initial College Football Playoff rankings, Ohio State hopes to stay competitive until Sayin could potentially return for the postseason.
Day said on his weekly show the outcome has been decent and the injury is healing, but it will take time — not next week or next month. The Buckeyes face Oregon, Northwestern, Nebraska, and Michigan to maintain or improve their playoff positioning.
Before the injury, Sayin ranked third nationally in passing yards (2,007) and touchdowns (19), helping push wide receiver Jeremiah Smith into Heisman Trophy contention. After the USC loss, Miami quarterback Darian Mensah moved to the forefront of the Heisman race.
Freshman Luke Fahey threw for 260 yards and a touchdown in his first start, though Ohio State receivers suffered several critical drops. Fahey has sought advice from Sayin, who remains involved in team meetings and preparation.
Day praised Sayin's leadership and communication, noting his presence benefits the team. The Buckeyes must perform well with Fahey against Oregon to stay in the CFP conversation; a loss could damage their at-large berth hopes.
