Report: Ohio State to Start Luke Fahey at QB Against USC
Luke Fahey to Start at Quarterback for Ohio State Against USC
Freshman quarterback Luke Fahey is set to make his first collegiate start for Ohio State against USC on Saturday, stepping in as Julian Sayin remains sidelined for the remainder of the season with an injury sustained against Indiana two weeks ago, according to a report.
Head coach Ryan Day did not initially reveal his starting plans during the Buckeyes’ bye week after Fahey relieved Sayin during the Indiana matchup. However, a report from Matt Zenitz of CBS Sports indicated that Ohio State plans to start Fahey over redshirt freshman Tavien St. Clair.
Ohio State is expected to start true freshman Luke Fahey at quarterback tomorrow against USC, sources tell @CBSSports.Was the clear favorite in the competition with sophomore Tavien St. Clair to be Ohio State’s new starter with Julian Sayin now injured but head coach Ryan Day… pic.twitter.com/n1irFnE9Wc
The Competition Behind the Depth Chart Shift
Fahey has completed 9-of-13 passes this season for 203 yards, two touchdowns, and two interceptions. While Fahey and St. Clair competed for the backup role throughout the year, Fahey consistently held the number two spot on the depth chart.
St. Clair entered the 2025 recruiting class as a highly regarded five-star prospect out of Bellefontaine, Ohio. He has seen action in two games off the bench this season, completing 5-of-7 passes for 52 yards with one touchdown and one interception.
Ohio State Faces USC Passing Defense on Saturday
The timing presents an immediate test as the Buckeyes prepare to face the Trojans at 7:30 p.m. ET on Saturday with a broadcast on NBC. Fahey will operate behind an offense that features wide receiver Jeremiah Smith, a freshman from Mission Viejo, California.
USC enters the matchup boasting the No. 14 passing defense in the Big Ten, conceding 216 yards per game through the air. With Ohio State experiencing difficulties establishing a consistent running game this season, Fahey will likely need to stretch the defense vertically to keep the offense moving.
Luke Fahey could become just the fifth true freshman to start a game for Ohio State at QB, joining Kyle McCord, Braxton Miller, Terrelle Pryor and Art Schlichter. https://t.co/IxYplJrrGr