The Ohio State Buckeyes will open their 2026 campaign on September 5 at noon Eastern, hosting Ball State in a matchup that blends tradition with a strategic pivot toward a more physical ground game.
The ceremony will double as Senior Day, honoring the departing veterans while Jim Tressel, the former head coach, is slated for induction into the stadium’s Ring of Honor, a move that underscores the program’s reverence for its recent legacy.
Building a Ground Game
After a Cotton Bowl loss that left the Buckeyes with negative rushing yards, the coaching staff has placed a premium on establishing a reliable run attack. Bo Jackson, who burst onto the scene as a freshman, is now the designated starter, and his blend of power and vision is expected to anchor the offense.
Supporting the backfield, Ja'Kobi Jackson, a transfer from Florida, and Isaiah West are competing for snaps, while freshmen phenoms Legend Bey and Anthony Rogers are slated to receive early playing time, adding youthful dynamism to the roster.
Across the field, Ball State’s defense will be led by first‑time starter Keldric Luster, whose size and mobility pose a unique challenge to Ohio State’s containment schemes. The unit is overseen by veteran coordinator Matt Patricia, whose disciplined approach aims to test the Buckeyes’ newfound rushing identity.
Despite being listed as heavy favorites — oddsmakers project a 50‑point margin — the coaching staff emphasizes development over domination. The game also serves as a prelude to a road trip to Texas the following week, making experience and depth critical as the Big Ten schedule looms.