Ohio State Buckeyes prepare for season opener against Ball State

The No. 1 ranked Ohio State Buckeyes are set to open their 2026 college football season against the Ball State Cardinals at Ohio Stadium on September 5. The Buckeyes enter the matchup with a significant advantage, as sportsbooks favor them by over 50 points. Head coach Ryan Day has emphasized the importance of playing a clean, fundamental game to establish a team identity before a subsequent high-profile game against Texas.

The season opener will also feature several ceremonial honors. Former Buckeyes head coach Jim Tressel will be inducted into the Ohio State Ring of Honor. Additionally, 2002 national champion Maurice Clarett has been named the first Victory Bell Ringer of the season.