Ryan Day’s Quarterback Gamble Pays Off: Tavien St. Clair Named Future Face of Ohio State After Portal Shake-Up

In a move that surprised many across the college football landscape, Ohio State head coach Ryan Day has made a definitive — and undeniably bold — decision about the Buckeyes’ future at quarterback. Amid the chaos of the ever-churning transfer portal, Day announced that class of 2025 standout Tavien St. Clair is the program’s clear-cut quarterback of the future.

It’s not every day that a blue-blood program like Ohio State plants its flag behind a high school junior, especially with the transfer portal offering instant access to seasoned collegiate quarterbacks. But Day, known for his offensive acumen and quarterback development pedigree, believes St. Clair is the right fit — and he’s not shying away from the pressure of such a high-stakes call.

The quarterback room in Columbus has seen substantial turnover in recent months. With former 5-star Kyle McCord transferring to Syracuse and Devin Brown’s status uncertain, the Buckeyes were thrust into a transitional phase at the most vital position on the field. Incoming transfers and promising underclassmen remain on the roster, but none, according to Day, have the combination of traits he sees in St. Clair.

The departure of seasoned talent prompted speculation that Ohio State might dip heavily into the portal once again to find a proven starter. Instead, Day doubled down on youth and potential. “Tavien is the kind of player we believe we can build around for years to come,” Day said. “He’s a competitor, a leader, and he has the skill set that fits exactly what we want to do on offense.”

Hailing from Bellefontaine, Ohio, St. Clair has steadily risen in the national rankings. A prototypical modern quarterback, he possesses excellent size (6’4”, 225 lbs), athleticism, and a refined throwing motion. His junior season was a breakout campaign, showcasing his ability to read defenses, make every throw, and extend plays with his legs when necessary.

What truly sets St. Clair apart, according to scouts and coaches, is his poise and maturity. For someone his age, he operates with the calm and command of a college veteran. It’s that intangible edge — the quiet leadership and football IQ — that impressed Day and the rest of the Buckeyes staff most.

Ryan Day’s track record with quarterbacks is impressive. From developing Justin Fields into a Heisman finalist to grooming C.J. Stroud into a first-round NFL pick, Day has shown he can turn raw talent into top-tier performance. Now, he’s wagering that he can do the same with St. Clair, even in an era where patience is rare and expectations are sky-high.

Analysts across the country are calling the move a “calculated risk.” With the ability to land plug-and-play talent from the portal, why hand the keys to a high schooler?

By publicly endorsing St. Clair now, Day is sending a message — to his team, to fans, and to recruits. He’s committing to continuity, development, and belief in his system. It also gives the Buckeyes stability on the recruiting trail. Other skill players and offensive linemen now know who they could be lining up alongside for the next three or four years.

Some observers believe this announcement also doubles as a challenge to the current QB room. “If you want the job, you better raise your game,” one Big Ten analyst said. “Ryan Day just told the world what the bar is.”

St. Clair isn’t expected to step in as the starter in 2025 — not yet. But barring a drastic shift in trajectory or unforeseen circumstances, he’s being groomed as the next leader of one of college football’s most iconic programs. With a year left in high school, he’ll have time to refine his skills and prepare mentally for the jump.

The spotlight will be intense, and comparisons will be inevitable. But Day’s early declaration could be exactly the kind of confidence boost St. Clair needs to rise to the occasion.

For Ryan Day, this isn’t just about winning games — it’s about defining a new chapter for Ohio State football. One where belief in young talent, in development over convenience, may prove to be the defining edge in an increasingly chaotic college football landscape.