Ohio State was dismantled in the 2025 College Football Playoff against Miami. They have a bold prediction upcoming for the 2026 season.
Ohio State looked like a strong contender to repeat as a national champion in 2025.
The Buckeyes cruised to a 12-0 start in the regular season before suffering their first loss against Indiana in a tight 13-10 Big Ten Championship Game.
No. 2 Ohio State had plenty of firepower at skilled positions, but the trenches were a liability in a 24-14 loss to No. 10 Miami in the College Football Playoff quarterfinal at the Cotton Bowl.
The losses to Miami and Indiana don't look so bad on Monday before the two teams are set to play in the CFP national championship at Hard Rock Stadium in South Florida.
OSU has plenty to look forward to in 2026 with quarterback Julian Sayin, running back Bo Jackson, and wide receiver Jeremiah Smith set to return.
On3 recently published their predictions for the 2026 season. They rank Ohio State as the No. 1 team before spring football begins.
"Having the top pass-catch combo in college football is always a good place to start," wrote Chris Low. "Julian Sayin returns at quarterback and Jeremiah Smith at receiver.
"They hooked up for 12 touchdowns in 2015. Running back Bo Jackson, after rushing for 1,090 yards and earning true freshman All-America honors, is also returning, along with the left side of the offensive line and center Carson Hinzman."
Low is concerned about the Buckeyes losing numerous starters on defense. Ohio State has been aggressive in the transfer portal, landing pass-rusher Qua Russaw from Alabama.
The Buckeyes should make it to the CFP in 2026. However, Ohio State head coach Ryan Day will have his hands full trying to earn a Big Ten championship.
Indiana has become a juggernaut in Curt Cignetti's second season in Bloomington. The Hoosiers very well could win the national championship on Monday night.
Despite having the CFP to prepare for, Cignetti has taken advantage of Mark Cuban's generous donations to the program. IU has landed impressive help in the transfer portal, including quarterback Josh Hoover and wide receiver Nick Marsh.
Ohio State will need its defense to be impressive if it wants to overtake Indiana in 2026.