Julian Sayin, Devin Sanchez Make Shaun Alexander Freshman Of The Year Watch List

Around eight months after star receiver Jeremiah Smith narrowly missed out on the Shaun Alexander Award, given out to the nation’s best freshman, two Buckeyes, quarterback Julian Sayin and cornerback Devin Sanchez, were included on the watch list for the award on Wednesday.

Sayin, who was named the team’s starting quarterback on Aug. 18, could be set up for a strong 2025 season after redshirting as a true freshman in 2024. Making brief appearances in four games last season, the Carlsbad, Calif.-native completed 5 of 12 passes for 84 yards and a touchdown.

Now, as the Buckeyes’ starter, Sayin gets to operate a loaded Buckeye offense, which includes not only Smith but also All-Big Ten tight end Max Klare.

Unlike Sayin, Sanchez isn’t expected to start in the team’s season-opening clash against No. 1 Texas, but he could make an impact as a depth piece behind projected starters like Davison Igbinosun, Jermaine Mathews Jr. and Lorenzo Styles Jr.   

Sanchez, a five-star recruit out of North Shore High School in Houston, proved he is ready to play as a true freshman on Aug. 6 when he had his black stripe removed.