Preseason Outlook
Lindy's Sports College Football preview magazine has placed Ohio State at No. 3 in its 2026 preseason rankings, trailing only Oregon and Texas. The Buckeyes are projected to contend again for a College Football Playoff berth and a shot at the national title, but the road ahead looks anything but easy.
The previous season saw the team open 12‑0, hold the No. 1 spot for much of the year and finish with a two‑game skid that left fans yearning for redemption. Head coach Ryan Day says the squad carries an angry edge that could fuel a bounce‑back effort.
On offense, Heisman‑caliber talents Julian Sayin and Jeremiah Smith form what many analysts call the most compelling pitch‑and‑catch duo in the country, giving the Buckeyes a potent weapon in the passing game.
Defensive Questions
A major storyline revolves around the defense, which lost three first‑round picks from the previous draft. Coordinator Matt Patricia will need to rebuild that unit, and the arrival of Power 4 transfers James Smith, Qua Russaw, Terry Moore and Earl Little Jr. is being watched closely as a potential remedy.
The Buckeyes' schedule is stacked with formidable opponents, and their opening game will be at home against Ball State on September 5. Navigating that slate will be a true test of whether the team can translate preseason optimism into on‑field success.