Julian Sayin Named Buckeyes QB, OSU-Texas Showdown, DirecTV Deal, AI Education Push, and New Chalking Ban

Good afternoon, Buckeyes! It's Monday, August 25, 2025, and here's what's happening around Ohio State University. The Buckeyes are gearing up for an exciting start to the football season. Head coach Ryan Day has named sophomore Julian Sayin as the starting quarterback for the season opener against top-ranked Texas on August 30 at Ohio Stadium. Sayin, a former five-star recruit, steps into the role following the departure of Will Howard to the NFL. This highly anticipated matchup will also feature ESPN's "College GameDay," marking the final appearance of legendary commentator Lee Corso. In the latest Associated Press preseason Top 25 poll, Ohio State is ranked third, behind Texas and Penn State. The Buckeyes are set to face Texas in the season opener, a rematch of last year's College Football Playoff semifinal. Ohio State has entered into a multi-year marketing and sponsorship agreement with DirecTV. This partnership includes in-venue signage, digital media, and a Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) program featuring college athletes. The first "Fan Zone" experience will debut at the August 30 game against Texas, offering fans interactive experiences and streaming content. The university is advancing its commitment to artificial intelligence education. Provost Ravi Bellamkonda announced that all incoming students will be "bilingual," fluent in AI and its applications to their fields of study. This initiative aims to prepare students for the evolving technological landscape. Ohio State has implemented a new policy prohibiting chalking on campus sidewalks. This decision follows complaints regarding chalk messages and aims to address concerns about campus signage. The policy has sparked discussions about free speech and university regulations. That's all for today's update. Stay tuned for more news and events happening around campus. Go Buckeyes!