
Ohio State Poised for 2026 Dominance After Playoff Heartbreak
Ohio State finished 2025 undefeated and top‑ranked before a playoff exit, yet the program enters 2026 as the preseason No. 1 favorite, bolstered by returning stars and a revamped defense.
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Ohio State finished 2025 undefeated and top‑ranked before a playoff exit, yet the program enters 2026 as the preseason No. 1 favorite, bolstered by returning stars and a revamped defense.

The 2026 Allstate Wuerffel Trophy watch list recognizes 113 FBS players for leadership, academic achievement and impactful service initiatives, spotlighting projects that reach from Texas to Nigeria.

Ohio State entered the 2024 preseason atop the national rankings, carrying the weight of championship expectations as the Buckeyes aim to translate preseason hype into on‑field dominance.

The Big Ten has dominated recent college football, and with 18 programs gathering in Chicago for media days, each team is shaping its strategy for a new season of title contention.

Ohio State prepares for Big Ten Media Day in Chicago, entering the season as the poll’s top pick while facing a slate of elite opponents.

Preseason polls place Ohio State at the top, Iowa at eighth, and highlight All‑Big Ten selections and player of the year favorites as media days begin in Chicago.
The USA TODAY NETWORK released its preseason Big Ten football outlook, projecting the Wisconsin Badgers to finish 13th. Sophomore linebacker Mason Posa is the only Badger recognized on the preseason all‑conference team, while the program adopts a wait‑and‑see approach despite roster upgrades.
Ohio State emerged as the overwhelming favorite in the USA TODAY Network’s 2026 preseason Big Ten football poll, capturing more than half of the first‑place votes. The poll also highlighted a strong offensive core for the Buckeyes, with several players receiving conference accolades.

Ohio State safety Jaylen McClain praises transfer Christian Alliegro, a former Wisconsin linebacker whose size, speed and aggressive style are expected to reshape the Buckeyes’ defense for the 2026 season.
From July 28‑30, Chicago will host the Big Ten football media days, featuring Ohio State coach Ryan Day and rising stars Jeremiah Smith, Jaylen McClain and Julian Sayin. The schedule, broadcast partners and early game details were also revealed.

Ohio State safety Jaylen McClain praised the arrival of Christian Alliegro, a former Wisconsin linebacker, highlighting his potential impact on the defense heading into the 2026 season.

Ohio State is preparing for a pivotal 2026 campaign, highlighted by open fall camp sessions, high‑profile games against Texas and Michigan, and a push for a fourth consecutive Big Ten title.

Fans can attend open practices from August 6‑8, ticket sales are underway, and a packed schedule featuring games against Ball State, Texas and Michigan sets the stage for a hopeful return to Big Ten prominence.

The Ducks boast the most talent‑laden roster in the Big Ten for the upcoming season, with 13 athletes named to the all‑conference teams, including a host of standout performers.

With a wave of departures to the NFL, Ohio State is counting on experienced transfers and fresh talent to anchor its secondary. McClain points to Little and Timmons as key pieces.

Veteran safety Earl Little Jr. and freshman cornerback Jay Timmons are being counted on to shore up Ohio State's secondary as the Buckeyes rebuild for a demanding 2026 schedule.

College football coach Ryan Day and defensive back Jaylen McClain have been recognized for their off‑field contributions, receiving nominations for the Allstate AFCA Good Works Team, which celebrates service, scholarship and sport.

Ohio State's 27‑9 victory over Michigan highlights a season of momentum, from a grueling Power Four slate to record‑breaking recruiting prospects.

Julian Sayin climbs to fifth in national quarterback rankings while Ohio State faces a high‑stakes recruiting showdown with Tennessee over five‑star running back David Gabriel Georges, a contest underscored by multimillion‑dollar NIL offers and a deep pool of Buckeyes prospects heading toward the 2027 NFL draft.

ESPN’s Football Power Index projects a 7.6‑4.4 record for Iowa in 2026, an 11.7% chance of reaching the College Football Playoff and a 1.7% chance of capturing the Big Ten, with detailed win probabilities against every scheduled opponent.

Ohio State is revamping its defensive unit for 2026 after key departures, highlighted by the addition of safety Earl Little Jr., a transfer praised by wide receiver Brandon Inniss for his experience and versatility.

Ohio State’s newest safety, Kaden Gebhardt, is drawing early attention for his work ethic and physical readiness, with coach Carson Hinzman highlighting his potential impact on special teams in the 2026 season.
The latest installment from EA Sports will launch worldwide on July 9, offering early play for Deluxe and MVP+ members, and featuring the highest‑rated Ohio State player, Jeremiah Smith.

Ohio State's football roster for 2027 will see an extra year of eligibility for many players under the NCAA's revised five‑year model, reshaping scholarship allocations and draft plans.