As Ohio State gears up for the Cotton Bowl, the Buckeyes are once again juggling postseason prep with the now-annual reality of roster movement. The Transfer Portal looms large this time of year, and for the second straight season, it’s a subplot that could shape the team’s depth chart even as they chase a national title.
One name to watch closely is backup quarterback Lincoln Kienholz. While he’s not expected to see much action during the Buckeyes' College Football Playoff run, his future with the program is very much in question - and by his own admission, a change could be coming soon.
Speaking to the media on Monday, Kienholz didn’t exactly shy away from the possibility of entering the portal when it opens on January 2nd. In fact, his comments strongly suggest that a move is on the table.
“I've definitely had conversations,” Kienholz said. “I'm not 100% sure, but my goal is to go to the NFL, and in order to do that, you gotta play. So I've had conversations with Coach Day and also with Coach Fessler a little bit about it.”
That’s a candid, honest response - and one that reflects the tough reality for many talented quarterbacks stuck behind entrenched starters. Kienholz isn’t just looking for a new jersey; he’s looking for reps, film, and ultimately, a shot at the next level. And with Julian Sayin expected to return and lead the Buckeyes’ quarterback room next season, the path to playing time in Columbus looks crowded.
Kienholz’s situation is emblematic of the modern college football landscape. The portal isn’t just about discontent - it’s about opportunity.
For a player with NFL aspirations, sitting on the sideline doesn’t move the needle. He knows that.
The coaches know that. And it sounds like those conversations have already taken place behind closed doors.
While nothing is official yet, all signs point to Kienholz exploring his options once the window opens. And if he does decide to leave, it wouldn’t come as a shock. The Buckeyes have seen players make similar moves before, especially during this exact time of year, when playoff prep overlaps with roster reshuffling.
For now, Kienholz remains a Buckeye. But come January, don’t be surprised if he’s wearing different colors - chasing the same dream, just on a different path.