Game Week Command Center

Upcoming · HomeBig Tenfootball

OHI

Ohio State University

Ball State

Opponent

WhenSat, Sep 5 · 12:30 PM EDT

VenueMilan Puskar Stadium, Morgantown

Home

BroadcastTNT / HBO Max

ContextBig Ten

Football

Three things to know

Matchup context: Upcoming · Home · Sat, Sep 5 · 12:30 PM EDT.
Signal coverage: 23 ranked developments linked to this week.
What is verified: Kickoff, venue, and broadcast for the Coastal Carolina opener. Rankings and standings appear after Week 1.

Football signals

Opponent snapshot

Ball State

Ohio State opens against Ball State. Fall camp coverage and Game Week news are listed below.

Latest developments

Game Week Signal

Sunday, August 16

23 developments

Women's Soccer

Buckeyes Open 2026 Season Sunday vs. Clemson

The Ohio State women's soccer team kicks off its 2026 season at home against Clemson on Sunday, August 16. The match marks the beginning of a new campaign for the Buckeyes, who are looking to build on last year's success. Head coach Lori Walker-Hock highlighted the team's preparation and excitement for the opener, noting the strong roster and the challenge Clemson presents. The game is set for 1 p.m. ET at Jesse Owens Memorial Stadium and will be broadcast on Big Ten Network.

Read on Official athletics website ↗

football

Buckeye fans most want to travel to the Coliseum for Halloween

Ohio State fans would most like to travel to USC's Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum for a Halloween game, according to a fan poll conducted by Land-Grant Holy Land. The poll asked Buckeye fans which road game they would most want to attend, and the Coliseum topped the list, likely due to the historic venue and the allure of a Halloween matchup in Los Angeles.

Read on fan blog ↗

football

Sayin and Smith Named ESPN Preseason All-American

Two Ohio State football players, quarterback Julian Sayin and wide receiver Jeremiah Smith, have been named to ESPN's preseason All-American team. This recognition highlights their exceptional talent and the high expectations for the Buckeyes in the upcoming season.

Read on official athletics site ↗

Women's Basketball

Behind the quiet Ohio State women’s basketball transfer portal season

The article discusses Ohio State women's basketball's unexpectedly quiet transfer portal season, analyzing the reasons behind the lack of movement. It explores how the coaching staff's retention strategy, player development, and the program's stability have kept players from entering the portal, contrasting with the national trend of high transfer activity. The piece also touches on the impact of NIL and the evolving landscape of college athletics, suggesting that Ohio State's approach may signal a shift toward building continuity rather than relying on transfers.

Read on analysis ↗

Football

New at the ‘Shoe: Ohio State Unveils 2026 Home Game Themes and Fan Experience Upgrades

Ohio State has announced the 2026 home game themes and fan experience upgrades for Ohio Stadium, including new game-day traditions, enhanced mobile app features, upgraded Wi-Fi, and themed matchups such as a 'Scarlet Out' and a 'Legacy Game' honoring past champions. The upgrades aim to improve fan engagement and create a more immersive atmosphere for Buckeye home games.

Read on Official University Athletics Site ↗

Men's Basketball

You’re Nuts: How many Ohio State players will record a 30-point game this season?

The article from Land-Grant Holy Land discusses the potential for Ohio State basketball players to record 30-point games in the upcoming season. It explores the scoring capabilities of key players and compares them to past performances, offering a fan perspective on the team's offensive potential.

Read on Fan Blog ↗

Football

Ohio State continues to attract top receivers in 2028 class, Buckeyes to host five-star hooper this fall

Ohio State's football program continues to build momentum in the 2028 recruiting class, particularly at the wide receiver position. The Buckeyes are set to host a five-star receiver prospect this fall, highlighting their ongoing ability to attract elite talent. This article discusses the recruiting efforts and the significance of hosting top prospects on campus.

Read on blog ↗

Football

Little Jr. Named to the 2026 Paycom Jim Thorpe Award Watch List

Ohio State defensive back Caleb Little Jr. has been named to the 2026 Paycom Jim Thorpe Award Watch List, recognizing him as one of the top defensive backs in college football. Little Jr., a key player for the Buckeyes, enters the season with high expectations after a strong previous year.

Read on Official Athletic Site ↗

football

Josh Padilla could be Ohio State’s most valuable offensive lineman who doesn’t start

This article from Land-Grant Holy Land discusses Ohio State offensive lineman Josh Padilla, who, despite not being a starter, is considered a highly valuable asset to the team. The piece highlights his versatility, experience, and reliability as a reserve, noting that he could be called upon in critical situations and provides depth that is crucial for a championship-caliber roster. It emphasizes his role in practice, his ability to play multiple positions, and the trust coaches have in him.

Read on fan site ↗

Football

Buckeyes working hard to replace lost defensive line production

Ohio State is actively working to replace the production lost from key defensive linemen who departed after last season. The coaching staff is focusing on recruiting and developing younger players, and they are also looking at potential transfers to fill the gaps. The article discusses the challenges of maintaining a strong defensive line and the strategies being employed to ensure the unit remains competitive.

Read on Blog ↗

College Football

You’re Nuts: Which Big Ten team is a sleeper to make the CFP?

Brett Ludwiczak and a co-host discuss potential Big Ten sleeper teams for the 2026 College Football Playoff, considering factors like returning talent, transfer portal additions, and favorable schedules. They evaluate teams such as Oregon, Penn State, USC, and Nebraska, but focus on a few under-the-radar squads that could surprise. The conversation highlights the expanded playoff format and how it might benefit teams outside the traditional top tier.

Read on Blog/Analysis ↗

Football and Basketball

A top 2028 DB sets return trip to Ohio State, Buckeyes make the cut for 2027 four-star basketball prospect

Ohio State's athletic programs continue to build future rosters, as a top 2028 defensive back has scheduled a return visit to campus, and the Buckeyes basketball team has made the cut for a 2027 four-star prospect. The football program's early recruiting efforts are paying off with elite underclassmen, while the basketball program is also securing interest from top-tier talent.

Read on Team News ↗

football

Matt Patricia is bringing a ‘committee’ approach to Ohio State’s defense this year

Ohio State's new defensive coordinator Matt Patricia is implementing a committee approach to the defense, which could have implications for West Virginia's upcoming games against the Buckeyes. The article discusses Patricia's strategy of rotating players and using multiple defensive looks to keep opponents off balance.

Read on news ↗

football

Ohio State is embracing The Game; Michigan seems scared by it

This opinion piece contrasts the mental approaches of Ohio State and Michigan ahead of 'The Game.' The author argues that Ohio State's players and coaches are embracing the pressure and significance of the rivalry, while Michigan appears to be avoiding or deflecting it. The article cites recent comments and behaviors from both programs, suggesting that Ohio State's confidence and willingness to confront the moment gives them a psychological edge, whereas Michigan's apparent fear could be detrimental.

Read on opinion ↗

football

Jaylen McClain Named to Allstate Wuerffel Trophy Watch List

Ohio State safety Jaylen McClain has been named to the 2026 Allstate Wuerffel Trophy watch list, an award that recognizes college football players for outstanding community service and academic achievement. McClain, a junior, has been active in volunteer work in the Columbus area and maintains a high GPA. The Wuerffel Trophy is one of the most prestigious honors in college football, and McClain's inclusion highlights his character both on and off the field.

Read on official university athletics site ↗

football

Player to Watch: Can Jeremiah Smith reach an even higher level in 2026?

This article from Land Grant Holy Land, a Michigan State Spartans blog, discusses whether Ohio State wide receiver Jeremiah Smith can elevate his already impressive play in the 2026 season. Smith, a former five-star recruit, had a standout freshman year with 89 catches, 1,315 yards, and 15 touchdowns, earning Freshman All-American honors. The piece examines his potential for improvement, noting his elite athleticism and the possibility of increased targets with key departures. It also touches on his impact in the Big Ten and his status as a Heisman contender, offering a fan's perspective on his trajectory.

Read on rival fan blog ↗

football

Player to Watch: John Walker aims to make an impact in first season at Ohio State

John Walker, a highly touted defensive tackle, is set to make his debut for Ohio State in the 2026 season. After transferring or enrolling, he is expected to bring immediate impact to the Buckeyes' defensive line. The article highlights his physical attributes, high school pedigree, and the potential role he could play in Ohio State's defensive scheme, making him a player to watch in the upcoming season.

Read on news ↗

football

Arthur Smith is impressed by Julian Sayin, wanted to be in Columbus

Ohio State offensive coordinator Arthur Smith expressed admiration for quarterback Julian Sayin, noting that Sayin's skills and work ethic made him want to be in Columbus. Smith highlighted Sayin's development and potential impact on the Buckeyes' offense.

Read on news ↗

Football

Buckeye Offense Chats with Media After Practice on Wednesday

The Ohio State Buckeyes football team held a practice session on Wednesday, August 12, 2026, after which offensive players and coaches spoke with the media. The discussions likely covered the team's preparation, offensive strategies, player development, and expectations for the upcoming season.

Read on Official team website ↗

football

Beyond the Box Score: There shouldn’t be any pressure on Ryan Day entering this season

The article argues that Ohio State head coach Ryan Day should not face pressure entering the upcoming season, despite past playoff disappointments. It emphasizes the program's consistent success, recruiting prowess, and the unrealistic expectations set by fans and media. The piece suggests that Day's track record, including a national championship appearance and multiple Big Ten titles, warrants patience and confidence.

Read on blog ↗

General

Varsity O Membership Updates

The Ohio State University Varsity O association, which recognizes varsity letter winners, has announced updates to its membership, including new benefits, eligibility criteria, and upcoming events for former Buckeye student-athletes.

Read on Official athletics website ↗

Football

You’re Nuts: Which transfer are you most excited to watch as a Buckeye this season?

This article from Land-Grant Holy Land, an Ohio State sports blog, discusses which transfer player the authors are most excited to watch for the Buckeyes this season. It highlights key incoming transfers and their potential impact on the team, but focuses on Ohio State, not West Virginia.

Read on blog ↗

Football

Legend Bey’s fall camp absence: What happened, and what it means going forward

This article from Land-Grant Holy Land discusses the absence of Ohio State freshman running back Legend Bey from fall camp, explaining the reasons behind it and the implications for the Buckeyes' depth chart. While the article focuses on Ohio State, it is relevant to West Virginia University fans because WVU and Ohio State share recruiting interests and have faced each other in recent seasons, making the development of Ohio State players potentially impactful for future matchups.

Read on blog ↗