🏈 ESPN REPORT: “$30 MILLION SHOCKWAVES!” — Ohio State Star Julian Sayin Stuns the Nation with Historic Stadium Donation: “Buckeye Pride is in My Blood”
COLUMBUS, OH — In a jaw-dropping act of generosity and school pride, Ohio State Buckeyes quarterback Julian Sayin has stunned the college football world by pledging a $30 million donation toward the renovation and enhancement of Ohio Stadium, affectionately known as “The Horseshoe.” The landmark gift — one of the largest ever made by a current or former collegiate athlete — has sent shockwaves across the NCAA landscape.
The donation will fund a wide-scale modernization project at the stadium, focusing on technological upgrades, fan amenities, athlete facilities, and historical preservation, while also including a scholarship fund for student-athletes in need.
Sayin, a rising star and projected first-round NFL draft pick, announced the donation in front of a packed media room at the Woody Hayes Athletic Center, flanked by Ohio State Athletic Director Gene Smith, Head Coach Ryan Day, and university officials.
“Buckeye Pride Is in My Blood”
Sayin, who transferred from Alabama to Ohio State earlier this year, has quickly become the face of the Buckeye football program. Despite not yet taking a snap in a regular season game at Ohio Stadium, he has already etched his name into Buckeye lore with this unprecedented gesture.
> “This isn’t about me — it’s about the legacy of Ohio State football and giving back to something far bigger than myself,” Sayin said during his emotional speech. “Buckeye pride is in my blood now. I’ve felt it from the moment I stepped on campus, and I wanted to do something meaningful that would last for generations.”
Sayin’s family, who attended the press conference, have deep roots in collegiate athletics and philanthropy. His father, a successful tech entrepreneur, matched part of the donation, helping bring the total contribution package to $30 million.
Project Buckeye Legacy
The donation launches what the university is calling “Project Buckeye Legacy” — a multi-phase stadium enhancement effort that will include:
A state-of-the-art LED scoreboard system
Expanded locker room and recovery facilities
Additional student section seating
A new Buckeye Heritage Museum honoring legends like Archie Griffin, Eddie George, and Troy Smith
Increased ADA accessibility and sustainability features
Athletic Director Gene Smith called the donation “historic and transformative.”
> “Julian’s commitment is unmatched. He is setting the tone for the next generation of athletes — not just with how he plays, but how he gives. Ohio State will be better because of him.”
Reactions Pour In
Social media lit up within minutes of the announcement. Former Buckeyes players, current NFL stars, and even rival fanbases took to X (formerly Twitter) to express their admiration.
“Much respect to Julian Sayin,” tweeted former OSU QB Justin Fields. “That’s leadership. That’s legacy.”
Coach Ryan Day, speaking to reporters, was visibly emotional.
> “Julian’s heart, maturity, and vision go way beyond football. He’s the kind of leader any program would dream of having.”
What’s Next?
As Sayin prepares for the 2025 season with national title hopes and Heisman buzz surrounding him, he’s already ensured his place in Ohio State history. The renovations are expected to begin after the season and will be completed in stages over three years.
One thing is certain — Julian Sayin’s legacy at Ohio State has already begun, and it’s worth far more than just touchdowns.