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Ohio State Football’s 2026 Schedule Is Out-And It's No Walk in the Park
The 2026 college football season may still be months away, but we’ve officially got our first real taste of what Ohio State will be up against. The Buckeyes’ full 2026 schedule is out, and let’s just say-it’s not for the faint of heart.
From a strength-of-schedule standpoint, this one jumps off the page. The Big Ten continues to evolve, and the Buckeyes are staring down a gauntlet that could define their postseason hopes. It’s a slate that demands consistency, depth, and no shortage of resilience.
A Quick Look at What’s Ahead
There are three things you need to know right off the bat. First, this schedule is loaded.
It features multiple high-caliber opponents that could challenge Ohio State early and often. Second, road games won’t be easy.
The Buckeyes will need to bring their A-game away from Columbus. And third, the margin for error?
It’s shrinking. In a conference that’s only getting deeper, each week could carry playoff implications.
Carnell Tate Earns First-Team Academic All-American Honors
On the individual front, wide receiver Carnell Tate continues to impress-this time off the field. Tate has been named a First-Team Academic All-American, a testament to the kind of student-athlete Ohio State continues to develop. With his performance in the classroom matching his talent on the field, Tate is setting the standard for what it means to wear the scarlet and gray.
Cortez Hankton’s Contract Details Released
Ohio State’s new wide receivers coach, Cortez Hankton, is officially on board, and now we know the details of his deal. The Buckeyes are investing in a coach with a proven track record, and Hankton is expected to play a major role in continuing Ohio State’s tradition of elite receiver play.
Buckeyes Land Five Five-Star Signees in Final Rivals300 Rankings
Recruiting continues to be a bright spot. In the final Rivals300 rankings, five members of Ohio State’s 2026 signing class earned five-star status.
That’s a strong signal that the Buckeyes are reloading with top-tier talent-and not just at one position. This group brings a mix of explosiveness, versatility, and long-term upside.
Arthur Smith’s Hiring Signals More Multi-Tight End Looks in 2026
With Arthur Smith now on staff, don’t be surprised if Ohio State leans even more into multi-tight end packages this fall. Smith’s NFL background, particularly his time coordinating offenses that emphasized tight end versatility, makes this a natural fit. The Buckeyes have the personnel to pull it off, and Smith’s schemes could unlock new dimensions in the offense.
A Deep Dive into Arthur Smith’s NFL Play-Calling Resume
Speaking of Smith, his NFL track record offers some insight into what Buckeye fans might expect. Over seven seasons as a pro play-caller, Smith showed a clear preference for physicality, balance, and tight end-heavy formations.
His offenses often leaned on the run to set up play-action, and he has a knack for maximizing mismatches. Translating that to the college game will be one of the more intriguing storylines heading into the season.
Transfer Portal Reload: Can Ohio State Keep Pace?
The transfer portal has become a defining part of modern college football, and Ohio State is right in the thick of it. The question now is: Can the Buckeyes continue to adapt and thrive in this new era?
With teams retooling their rosters overnight, depth and development matter more than ever. Ohio State has the infrastructure, but staying ahead means being aggressive, smart, and maybe even a little lucky when it comes to portal additions.
Dominick Kelly: The Underrated Transfer with Big-Time Upside
One of those additions? Dominick Kelly.
He may not have been the flashiest name in the portal, but don’t sleep on his potential. Kelly brings a unique blend of size, speed, and versatility that could make him a difference-maker.
If he clicks in Columbus, this could be one of the most impactful under-the-radar moves of the offseason.
Buckeyes Bounce Back on the Hardwood
On the basketball court, Ohio State’s men’s team picked up a much-needed win over Penn State. It wasn’t pretty, but it was gritty-and sometimes that’s exactly what you need.
The Buckeyes held off a late push to secure the bounce-back victory, with several players stepping up in key moments. The big picture?
This win could be a turning point as they look to build momentum heading deeper into conference play.
Women’s Hoops Adjusting Without Kitts
For the women’s team, the absence of forward Cotie Kitts has forced the Buckeyes to rethink their approach. With Kitts sidelined, Ohio State is leaning on a more balanced, team-oriented game plan. The early returns have been promising, and how this group adjusts moving forward could determine their postseason ceiling.
Kennedy Cambridge Named to Naismith Defensive Player of the Year Watch List
Defensive standout Kennedy Cambridge is getting some well-earned national recognition. She’s been named to the Naismith Defensive Player of the Year Watch List, underscoring her impact on that end of the floor. Cambridge has been a tone-setter all season long, and her presence gives the Buckeyes a defensive anchor they can count on.
From the gridiron to the hardwood, it’s a busy time in Buckeye Nation-and the pieces are starting to take shape for what could be a defining year across multiple sports.