BREAKING: Ohio State Set to Bench Lincoln Kienholz After Shocking Comparisons to Failed NFL QBs, Insider Claims That…

BREAKING: Ohio State Set to Bench Lincoln Kienholz After Shocking Comparisons to Failed NFL QBs, Insider Claims That…

BREAKING: Ohio State Set to Bench Lincoln Kienholz After Shocking Comparisons to Failed NFL QBs, Insider Claims Confidence Has Plummeted

In a dramatic turn of events that could have massive implications for the Buckeyes’ quarterback room, sources close to the program have revealed that Ohio State is preparing to bench sophomore quarterback Lincoln Kienholz, following a string of underwhelming performances and growing internal concerns. The decision, while not yet official, comes after stunning comparisons made behind closed doors to several high-profile NFL busts, shaking the confidence of coaches, players, and even Kienholz himself.

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Kienholz’s Fall From Promising Prospect to Major Question Mark

Just a year ago, Lincoln Kienholz arrived in Columbus as a high-upside prospect out of South Dakota — raw but brimming with potential. Touted for his athleticism, quick release, and fearless playstyle, Kienholz was seen as a possible successor in Ohio State’s long line of successful quarterbacks. But according to multiple program insiders, his development has not only stagnated — it’s regressed.

“He’s got the tools, no doubt,” one anonymous source inside the Woody Hayes Athletic Center told Buckeye Confidential. “But mentally, it’s not clicking. The reads, the pace, the composure — it’s just not there. And now people are starting to whisper names like Zach Wilson, Paxton Lynch, DeShone Kizer… guys who had all the traits but couldn’t put it together when it mattered.”

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Comparisons That Cut Deep – And Stir Panic

The comparisons, though unofficial, are said to have rattled confidence across the Buckeyes’ offensive coaching staff. According to one Big Ten scout who spoke anonymously, Kienholz is being viewed internally as “talented but dangerously erratic.”

One particularly harsh evaluation allegedly likened his progress to that of former Jets first-round pick Zach Wilson, whose NFL career has been marred by poor decision-making, inconsistency, and an inability to lead an offense.

“There’s a fear that if you keep him in there, you could derail not just the season, but his career,” the scout added. “He’s not ready, and the pressure of playing at a place like Ohio State is just crushing right now.”

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Coaching Staff Reportedly Split on Decision

Head coach Ryan Day and offensive coordinator Chip Kelly are said to be in deep discussions regarding the next step. While Day has long been loyal to the quarterbacks he recruits, sources claim that even he can’t ignore the warning signs anymore.

“There’s tension behind the scenes,” one insider shared. “Day knows what it takes to win big games, and Chip [Kelly] is not going to hesitate to make a change if he thinks Kienholz is hurting the offense’s rhythm. They want someone who can run the system with precision, not flashes.”

There is growing belief that true freshman Julian Sayin or even redshirt sophomore Devin Brown could be in line to take over QB1 duties during fall camp, depending on their performance in upcoming scrimmages.

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Confidence Issues and Locker Room Impact

Perhaps most concerning is the reported mental toll this scrutiny is taking on Kienholz. According to individuals familiar with the team’s inner dynamics, the young quarterback has grown visibly frustrated and withdrawn in recent weeks.

“He’s not the same guy anymore,” said one teammate under anonymity. “In spring ball he was talking, leading, laughing. Now he just looks tight. Pressured. You can feel the weight on him.”

Sources also suggest that several offensive veterans have privately expressed a preference for a more stable presence at quarterback, citing concerns about rhythm and decision-making in team drills.

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What This Means for Ohio State’s 2025 Campaign

The implications of this potential benching are significant. With national title aspirations and a reloaded roster, the Buckeyes can ill afford a misfire at the most important position on the field. And in the ultra-competitive Big Ten — especially with Michigan, Penn State, and even Oregon looming on the schedule — the margin for error is razor-thin.

Kienholz was expected to bring mobility and creativity to the quarterback role, especially under Chip Kelly’s revamped offense. But if the early camp reports are to be believed, he’s now closer to being a cautionary tale than a rising star.

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Next Steps: A Change Inevitable?

While no official decision has been announced, multiple insiders suggest a change could come within days, especially if Kienholz continues to struggle in closed-door scrimmages. The coaching staff is expected to evaluate all quarterbacks thoroughly during the upcoming joint practices and make a final call before the second week of fall camp.

Whether it’s Julian Sayin, Devin Brown, or a surprise name, someone else could be taking the first snap when Ohio State opens its season at home.

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Conclusion: A Stark Reality Check in Columbus

The Lincoln Kienholz experiment is not over — but the runway is getting short. What was once a promising narrative of a small-town star rising through the Buckeye ranks has turned into a story of pressure, stalled progress, and sobering comparisons. Unless something changes fast, Ohio State could be on the brink of its fir

st major quarterback controversy of the Chip Kelly era.

Stay tuned.