Ohio State Buckeyes football news
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The gist
Ohio State opens its 137th season Saturday against Ball State as 49.5-point favorites.
The game debuts Arthur Smith's new offense and tests the top-ranked Buckeyes' title hopes.
Background
Ohio State enters the 2026 season ranked No. 1 in the AP Top 25 after losing their final two games in 2025. The team has won 26 consecutive season openers, the longest active streak in the country, and is 8-0 under coach Ryan Day in openers. New offensive coordinator Arthur Smith, former Falcons head coach and Steelers OC, will debut his system with quarterback Julian Sayin and receivers Jeremiah Smith and Chris Henry Jr.
How it unfolded
- Mar 10, 2026Ohio State holds first spring workouts, with Jeremiah Smith and Chris Henry Jr. present.
- Aug 26, 2026Sanchez named to Hispanic College Football Player of the Year watch list.
- Aug 27, 2026Buckeye captains speak to media after Wednesday's practice.
- Aug 30, 2026Eleven Warriors reports Ohio State is a 50-point favorite for the opener; 10TV announces game details.
- Aug 31, 2026Ohio State official site confirms season opener vs Ball State on Sept 5; multiple outlets preview the game.
- Sep 5, 2026Ohio State hosts Ball State at Ohio Stadium, 12:30 PM ET.
Who’s saying what
- Official
- Ohio State athletics highlights the team's 26-game opening win streak and top national rankings in several defensive categories.
- Analysts
- SI projects the Buckeyes as 49.5-point favorites and expects a statement win en route to a tenth national title.
- Caution
- Some Buckeye fans don't anticipate an undefeated regular season, per Land-Grant Holy Land.
- Expert
- ESPN's Adam Rittenberg notes Arthur Smith could field head coach offers if he maximizes the offense's talent.
Still unverified
Reports of Arthur Smith being 'tempted' to leave for another college job are speculative, based on ESPN analyst commentary.