Off-Script Ohio: Ball State preview, players to watch and what we want to see from Ohio State

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Ohio State football is finally back.

Episode 33 of Off-Script Ohio gets you ready for the Buckeyes’ season opener against Ball State, as Cole breaks down what he wants to see from Ohio State in the first game of the 2026 season.

We start with the big-picture questions surrounding a game Ohio State is heavily favored to win. What will Arthur Smith’s offense actually look like in its first game? How will the running back, wide receiver and tight end rotations shake out? Will the Buckeyes stick with their projected starting offensive line or begin rotating players early?

The defense provides just as many questions. With only three starters returning from last year’s historic unit, who will make the biggest impression up front? Can Kenyatta Jackson Jr. establish himself as Ohio State’s top pass rusher? What will the defensive line rotation look like? Will Matt Patricia show much of the three-linebacker package that has been discussed throughout the offseason?

The secondary is another position to watch, particularly with Jay Timmons potentially seeing his first significant action at nickel. Cole also discusses Julian Sayin, Jeremiah Smith, Chris Henry Jr. and Bo Jackson before wrapping things up his bold prediction for the opener.

After a long offseason, it’s finally time for some football.

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