Daily Buckeye Blitz: Ohio State vs. Ball State: 5 Things the New Offense Must Prove

Ohio State football opens the 2026 season against Ball State, giving Buckeye fans their first look at Arthur Smith's new offense. We break down five things the Buckeyes must demonstrate before next week's showdown at Texas: Arthur Smith's offensive identity, the new-look offensive line, the Bo Jackson–Isaiah West running-back rotation, Julian Sayin's command of the system and the playmakers emerging behind Jeremiah Smith. Ohio State should beat Ball State comfortably, but the final score won't tell the entire story. The Buckeyes have one game to establish their identity, test their depth and correct any problems before the competition takes a massive step forward in Austin. Ohio State vs. Ball State kicks off Saturday, September 5, at 12:30 p.m. on Big Ten Network. Monday, August 31, 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