As the 2026 college football season approaches, the Ohio State Buckeyes are gearing up for their opening game against Ball State. With just over 90 days until the opener, the team is in the midst of spring practice, and the focus is on replacing the 12 starters who helped them go 12-0 during the regular season. The Buckeyes have been hard at work, getting younger players ready and adding players through recruiting and the transfer portal.
One of the key positions to watch is quarterback, where Julian Sayin is the only returning starter. Sayin had a productive first season as a starter in 2025, completing 77% of his passes and throwing for 3,610 yards, 32 touchdowns, and eight interceptions. While there's always competition at the Woody Hayes Athletic Center, Sayin is the only returning Heisman Trophy finalist, and backup Tavien St. Clair isn't challenging for the starting job yet.
Sayin has focused on improving his movement in the pocket and using his legs more, which could make him another star quarterback under Ryan Day. The running back position is also in good hands with Bo Jackson, who finished the 2025 season as the fifth true freshman in program history to rush for 1,000 yards. Although Jackson missed spring practice after a shoulder procedure, he is now entrenched as the Buckeyes' starting running back.
The wide receiver position is led by Jeremiah Smith, who has been the best wide receiver in college football since arriving at Ohio State ahead of the 2024 season. Smith has caught 163 passes for 2,558 yards and 27 touchdowns through his first two seasons with the Scarlet and Gray. NFL teams are already excited about the chance to draft Smith in 2027.
The tight end position will see multiple players rotate in, including Nate Roberts, Bennett Christian, Mason Williams, and Hunter Welcing. Roberts will play his natural position and is in line to start, while Christian, Williams, and Welcing will also get opportunities.
The offensive line is a key area to watch, with left tackle and right guard being the two biggest questions. Ian Moore is trending toward starting at left tackle, while Luke Montgomery will start at left guard once again. Carson Hinzman will start at center for the third time, and Austin Siereveld will play right guard.
Overall, the Buckeyes are in good shape heading into the 2026 season, with a strong core of returning players and some exciting new additions. With just over 90 days until the opener, the team is in the midst of spring practice, and the focus is on fine-tuning their game plan and getting ready for the challenges ahead.
