Ohio State prepares for key 2026 College Football playoff games
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 18, 2026, 4:35 AM
Last updated Jun 18, 2026
The Ohio State Buckeyes face critical matchups in the 2026 College Football season, beginning with a contest against Texas on September 12. Following a tough defeat to Indiana in the Big Ten Championship and a loss in the CFP quarterfinals, Ohio State's season hinges on games against Texas, USC on October 31, and Oregon on November 7. The team must adapt to significant roster changes, particularly on defense, after 11 players were selected in the 2026 NFL Draft. Quarterback Julian Sayin aims to take a more significant role this season, supported by Heisman hopeful Jeremiah Smith.
- •Ohio State faces Texas on September 12 to kick off the season.
- •USC clash on October 31 presents a significant challenge.
- •Oregon match scheduled for November 7 could define their playoff hopes.
- •Julian Sayin enters his second season as starting quarterback.
- •The team must replace seven defensive starters from last season.
- 5:19 AMYahoo Sports — Miami: 3 games that will define 2026 season
- 4:35 AMYahoo Sports — Ohio State: 3 games that will define 2026 season
"The Ohio State Buckeyes will need to win three key games to keep their hopes of making the College Football Playoff alive.
"The Miami Hurricanes have three challenging games that will decide if the team returns to the College Football Playoff.
Sources
External links- Yahoo SportsJun 18, 2026, 5:19 AMMiami: 3 games that will define 2026 season
The Miami Hurricanes have three challenging games that will decide if the team returns to the College Football Playoff.
- Yahoo SportsJun 18, 2026, 4:35 AMOhio State: 3 games that will define 2026 season
The Ohio State Buckeyes will need to win three key games to keep their hopes of making the College Football Playoff alive.
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