Ohio State Buckeyes' QB coach, Billy Fessler, stepped into the spotlight last year, and thanks to Julian Sayin, he shone brightly. As a freshman, Sayin dazzled, showing star potential, though he stumbled in the final two games against the Indiana Hoosiers and Miami Hurricanes.
Now comes the real challenge for Fessler. Sayin needs to elevate his game in 2026, or questions will arise about Fessler’s ability to maximize the potential of the former 5-star recruit from Carlsbad, California.
Moreover, Fessler must ensure that backup Tavien St. Clair is ready to step up when needed.
Cole Van Wiechen from Land-Grant Holy Land highlights the pressure on Fessler to develop both quarterbacks into elite players. The success of Ohio State's championship aspirations hinges on this development.
"As always, the difference between contending and winning comes down to quarterback play. Billy Fessler may not be the most visible coach on the staff, but his impact will be felt every Saturday.
If Sayin makes the leap to elite and St. Clair develops into the next answer, Ohio State’s championship window stays wide open," Van Wiechen notes.
"If not, the margin narrows quickly."
Should things take a downturn, Ryan Day might look to Fessler as a scapegoat. Day’s recent title win gives him some breathing room, but if Sayin or St. Clair falters, Fessler could find himself in the hot seat.
At 30, Fessler is in his fourth season as a QB coach, with Ohio State marking a significant milestone in his budding career. Success here could pave the way for future opportunities, potentially as an offensive coordinator by 2027 or 2028. If he continues on this trajectory, he might even be considered for an internal promotion, much like Brian Hartline last year.
In the high-stakes world of college football, particularly in the NIL/rev-share era, Fessler must prove his worth continually. Success could secure his future, but failure could mean a quick exit from Columbus.