COLUMBUS — A new season begins Saturday in Columbus as Ohio State welcomes Ball State to Ohio Stadium to kick off the 2026 campaign. While expectations are once again sky-high for the Buckeyes, Week 1 is less about style points than establishing an identity, getting reps for the roster, and building momentum.

Season openers always bring a mix of excitement and uncertainty. Ohio State will look to answer early questions, showcase its offseason development, and start the year with a complete performance before turning its attention to Texas, and the schedule that lies ahead.

Players to Watch:

• Devin McCuin — The former UTSA wide receiver has, by all accounts, exceeded expectations since transferring to Ohio State during the offseason. Ryan Day went so far as to say McCuin was "as good as we've had here." If that statement proves even remotely true, it would go a long way toward determining just how potent the Buckeyes' offense can be under new signal caller Arthur Smith.
• Earl Little Jr. — Caleb Downs is one of one. No one can replace him. But if Florida State transfer Earl Little Jr. can become the best version of himself, this defense should once again prove to be an elite unit—provided the defensive line plays to its potential.
• O Line — Say what you want about Julian Sayin's struggles at the end of the year, the biggest problem was how the offensive line performed in front of him.  The unit would be the first to admit it has to be better this year. While it should have no problem handling Ball State, this group needs to set the tone early and come out firing.

Who:                               Ball State Cardinals vs. Ohio State Buckeyes

When:                             September 5, 2026 @ 12:30 p.m.

Where:                            Ohio Stadium - Columbus, Ohio

History:                           0 – 0 – 0             

Last:                                Never Played

Television:                      B1G Ten Network

Streaming:                     B1G Ten Network | FOX Sports App | FOX One | FUBO

Radio:                             97.1 The Fan (Columbus market)

Money Line:                   Ohio State  – 50.5 (BetMGM)

Game Eats:                     Door Dash | GrubHub

Notes:                               

• Ryan Day is 8-0 in season opening games and Ohio State has the nation’s longest active streak in season opening wins at 26 in a row.
• For the first time ever, an Ohio State season opener will also be senior day for the players and their families.  This is a departure from the tradition of senior day being the last game of the year.  It was moved to remove distractions during Michigan week.
• Former Ohio State Head Coach Jim Tressel will earn a well-deserved induction into the Ohio State Ring of Honor on Saturday.