Buckeyes’ Young Core Faces Tough 2026 Slate | Ohio State Buckeyes Football News

Ohio State Buckeyes open 2026 as preseason No. 1, hosting Ball State in a non-conference tune-up—no FCS teams this year. Offense is stacked with eight returning starters, including QB Julian Sayin and playmakers Jeremiah Smith and Brandon Inniss, while the offensive line boasts elite continuity. Defense returns just three starters, but last year’s top-ranked scoring defense (under 9 PPG) gives hope that new coordinator Matt Patricia can repeat magic. Smith is close to shattering school records—just 43 catches, 341 yards, and 9 TDs away from all-time leadership. The team is also among the youngest in college football. And don’t sleep on the schedule: six top-25 opponents, four on the road, three against top-six foes—the toughest slate since 2005. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/4092fb1e38939cbc