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Ohio State hosts Ball State for 2026 season opener in Columbus

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 4, 2026, 11:54 PM

Last updated Sep 4, 2026

Ohio State hosts Ball State for 2026 season opener in Columbus

Summary

The No. 1 ranked Ohio State football team opens its 2026 campaign at home on Saturday against Ball State. Kickoff at Ohio Stadium is set for 12:30 p.m. ET. Staff from Buckeyes Wire expect a dominant performance from the home team, with individual score predictions ranging from 42-3 to 56-6 in favor of the Buckeyes. Ohio State head coach Ryan Day may look to utilize younger roster depth if the team secures a comfortable lead early in the contest. This game serves as the final tune-up for Ohio State before the team travels to Austin for a top-5 matchup against Texas next week. While forecasts mention potential rain, the Buckeyes enter the contest as significant favorites to extend their streak of season-opening victories.

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By the Numbers

•Ohio State hosts Ball State at 12:30 p.m. ET on Saturday.
•The Buckeyes enter the game ranked No. 1 in the country.
•Ohio State faces Texas in Austin next week.
•Staff predictions for the game range from 42-3 to 56-6.
•Weather reports indicate a potential for rain at Ohio Stadium.

Latest Updates

11:54 PMYahoo Sports — Ohio State vs. Ball State Buckeyes Wire staff predictions for Week 1

What they're saying

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It's Week 1 of the college football season and Ohio State kicks it off against Ball State. Our Buckeyes Wire staff predicts the score, and why.
— Yahoo Sports

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