Daily Buckeye Blitz: Ohio State vs. Ball State: 5 Keys to a Buckeye Victory

Ohio State opens the 2026 season against Ball State as the nation's No. 1 team and a favorite of more than 50 points. Simply winning won't tell us much about the Buckeyes. The real test is whether Ryan Day's team looks ready for next week's trip to Texas. Joe breaks down five keys to a successful season opener, including the offensive line's first real test, establishing the running game, containing Ball State quarterback Keldric Luster and getting meaningful snaps for Ohio State's young players. Can Julian Sayin take command of the offense? Will the Buckeyes control both lines of scrimmage? And which freshmen will begin earning larger roles? Plus, a final score prediction for Ohio State's Week 1 matchup with Ball State. Friday, September 4, 2026 Join Kalshi and Get $10 Subscribe to the Podcast 📺 Watch On YouTube https://www.youtube.com/thebuckeyecast LIKE 👍 and SUBSCRIBE to the YouTube channel https://www.youtube.com/@TheBuckeyeCast?sub_confirmation=1 Questions or Comments? Call or text at 614-414-2274 Email at joe@thebuckeyecast.com ⭐️ Find Us Here https://linktr.ee/thebuckeyecast