A surprise at the top
Pro Football Focus has placed Ohio State’s quarterback Julian Sayin at the summit of its 2026 quarterback rankings, praising his efficiency and a standout 2025 campaign that saw him throw for 3,610 yards and a 77.0% completion rate.
Sayin’s numbers were bolstered by 32 touchdowns against just eight interceptions, a combination that helped him lead the nation in completion percentage and earn the moniker of the most efficient passer in the country.
The journey that brought him to Columbus was anything but conventional. After Nick Saban retired from Alabama, Sayin transferred to Ohio State, where he spent a redshirt freshman year behind Will Howard before emerging as the starter.
What makes his return especially intriguing is that he is the only 2025 Heisman Trophy finalist who will be back in college for the 2026 season, a rarity that has analysts watching his every snap.
Joining Sayin near the top of the list are several other standout performers. Wide receiver Jeremiah Smith, Sayin’s primary target, earned the No. 1 spot among PFF’s overall player rankings, while defensive standouts Leonard Moore of Notre Dame and edge rusher Colin Simmons of Texas also cracked the upper echelon.
Implications for the 2026 season
The rankings also hint at broader storylines, from the impact of coaching changes to the evolving talent pool across the Power Five, setting the stage for a 2026 season that could redefine college football’s power dynamics.
The quarterback conversation extends beyond Sayin, with veterans like Bo Nix and Mac Jones still commanding attention, while Dalton Wasserman and Max Chadwick are being watched for their potential breakout seasons.
Coaches and analysts alike are already speculating on how Sayin’s blend of precision passing and mobility will affect Ohio State’s offensive scheme, especially as the team integrates new recruits and adapts to defensive schemes that have grown increasingly sophisticated.
Meanwhile, the rise of players like Leonard Moore and Colin Simmons signals a shift toward more balanced two‑way performances, suggesting that the next wave of college stars may excel on both sides of the ball.
For fans, the narrative is clear: a new generation of leaders is emerging, and the storylines that will dominate fall conversations are already taking shape on the practice field.