Freshman Luke Fahey Expected to Start for Ohio State Against USC

Ohio State is expected to hand its offense to Luke Fahey for its October 31 game against USC, giving the true freshman his first collegiate start. The Buckeyes are coming off a bye and will face the Trojans at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum.

Fahey is stepping in for Julian Sayin, who was injured during Ohio State’s 19-15 win over Indiana on October 17. Sayin left the game after being sacked and later appeared on the sideline with his arm in a sling. Coach Ryan Day said Sayin would miss several weeks.

Fahey and redshirt freshman Tavien St. Clair competed for the starting role during the bye. Day said both had practiced well and would be prepared to play. Ohio State could still use St. Clair during the game, including if Fahey struggles.

Fahey, a three-star recruit from Mission Viejo, California, completed nine of 13 passes this season for 203 yards, two touchdowns and two interceptions. He attempted two passes after entering the Indiana game but did not complete either. He threw for 1,638 yards and 17 touchdowns in high school.

Ohio State is 6-1 and ranked No. 2, while USC is 6-2 and coming off a 24-7 loss to Wisconsin. The Buckeyes could lean on their rushing game to support Fahey, as well as wide receiver Jeremiah Smith, who has 984 receiving yards and 12 touchdowns. The game will test whether Ohio State can maintain its championship push with a new quarterback.