The Ohio State Buckeyes are set to face one of the toughest slates in recent memory, a schedule that pits them against a mix of traditional powerhouses and rising contenders.
Analyst Bill Connelly of ESPN has singled out three particular matchups as must‑see events, citing the combination of brand prestige and competitive balance that each game brings.
A Schedule That Demands Attention
The clash with Oregon stands out, not only because the Ducks have been a frequent foil over the past decade, but also because the game promises a high‑octane offensive duel that could reshape both teams' trajectories.
Ohio State’s long‑standing dominance over Indiana is underscored by a 12‑year stretch in which the Hoosiers have failed to break through, a streak that adds extra stakes whenever the two meet.
Traveling to Texas is already labeled the No. 2 must‑see game of the season by Connelly, reflecting both the Longhorns’ resurgence and the Buckeyes’ desire to make a statement on a national stage.
Adding intrigue is Lane Kiffin’s recent move from Ole Miss to LSU, a storyline that will inevitably filter into the conversation around the LSU at Ole Miss matchup, even though it lies outside the Buckeyes’ direct schedule.
Interestingly, the highly anticipated showdown between Ohio State and USC did not crack Connelly’s top three, while the storied rivalry with Michigan — known simply as ‘The Game’ — was omitted not out of lack of importance but because it is generally assumed to be a must‑watch.
Overall, the schedule not only tests the team’s depth but also reinforces the Buckeyes’ brand as a perennial contender, ensuring that every Saturday brings a fresh narrative for fans and analysts alike.