# Big Ten conference quarterback instability > Developing situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/big-ten-conference-quarterback-instability > Updated: 2026-10-29T03:13:37.000Z. Sources: 7. Developments: 2. The Big Ten football conference is experiencing widespread instability at the quarterback position due to injuries and roster challenges. Approximately half of the 18 teams in the conference may rely on second-string quarterbacks during late October 2026. High-ranking programs, including Ohio State and UCLA, are managing injuries, while other teams such as Michigan, Oregon, and Washington face roster shifts. Ohio State coach Ryan Day attributed these difficulties to changes in roster construction driven by the transfer portal and Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) rules. Following an injury to Julian Sayin, Ohio State is deciding between Luke Fahey and Tavien St. Clair for their upcoming game against Southern California. Michigan is also navigating uncertainty at the position following a 13-6 overtime loss to Indiana. While freshman Tommy Carr recently earned a start, offensive struggles have led to speculation that the program may seek a transfer quarterback during the offseason, particularly as Bryce Underwood is expected to depart. ## Timeline ### 2026-10-29: Michigan football faces quarterback uncertainty following loss to Indiana Michigan football faces quarterback instability following a loss to Indiana, with analysts predicting the team may seek a transfer quarterback this offseason. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/michigan-football-faces-quarterback-uncertainty-following-loss-to-indiana ### 2026-10-27: Big Ten football faces widespread quarterback instability Half of the Big Ten conference teams may start backup quarterbacks this weekend due to injuries and roster challenges affecting programs like Ohio State and UCLA. 5 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/big-ten-football-faces-widespread-quarterback-instability --- Cite as: Big Ten conference quarterback instability. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/big-ten-conference-quarterback-instability