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League: NFLSport: College SportsCountry: United StatesCategory: Scores & Results

EJ Manuel predicts Ohio State can win national title wire-to-wire

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 22, 2026, 12:10 AM

Last updated Aug 22, 2026

EJ Manuel predicts Ohio State can win national title wire-to-wire
Summary

ESPN analyst EJ Manuel forecasts that Ohio State, starting the 2026 season as the top-ranked team in the preseason AP Poll, can claim the national championship wire-to-wire. He cites quarterback Julian Sayin's potential and the team's challenging schedule, including road games against top-25 opponents. Manuel's prediction comes amid concerns about the team's defense after losing three key players to the NFL Draft. Ohio State opens its season against Ball State on September 5, which also marks Senior Day for the Buckeyes.

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By the Numbers
  • •Julian Sayin is projected to lead Ohio State to a national title.
  • •The Buckeyes face a demanding road schedule against ranked teams.
  • •Three top defensive players were lost to NFL Draft.
  • •Ohio State begins the season against Ball State on September 5.
  • •Analysts weigh in on the team's offensive and defensive strengths.
Latest Updates
  • 12:10 AMYahoo Sports — ESPN analyst makes one very bold claim about Ohio State this year
What they're saying
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ESPN analyst EJ Manuel believes has gone on the record with an awfully bold claim about this year's Ohio State football team.

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