Locked On Buckeyes - Daily Podcast On Ohio State Buckeyes Football & Basketball

Ohio State Buckeyes eye a defensive resurgence as James Smith’s explosive versatility raises expectations for the upcoming season—is he set to be the next game-wrecker in Columbus? Jay Stephens spotlights Smith’s transfer from Alabama, his potential impact on Matt Patricia’s multiple-front defense, and how his athleticism could free up linebackers like Peyton Pierce and Christian Allegro to make plays all over the field.

The conversation heats up as Jay Stephens introduces the “Bash Brothers”—James Smith and fellow transfer Qua Russaw—whose chemistry dates back to their Alabama high school days. Dive into the potential lineup shakeups, the ongoing battle for edge rusher roles, and which alternate jersey reigns supreme in the Buckeyes’ closet. With 51 new faces on the roster and heated debates about tradition versus innovation, the Buckeyes’ path to the College Football Playoff is packed with intrigue and high stakes.

Photo credit: Adam Cairns-Imagn Images

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FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

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Ohio State Buckeyes add explosive playmaker Devin McCuin from UTSA—will his speed transform the offense and special teams? Jay Stephens spotlights McEwen’s ability to create game-changing plays, break zones, and serve as a reliable target for quarterback Julian Sayin. Insightful stats, including McCuin’s 11.2 yards per catch and proven productivity, highlight why he’s poised to thrive alongside top wideouts like Jeremiah Smith and Brandon Inniss in the Big Ten.

Key topics include the challenge of McCuin’s transition from the American Conference to “big boy” Big Ten football, his surprising red zone prowess, and why he should overtake Inniss as Ohio State’s primary kick and punt returner. Jay Stephens also debates innovative jersey combos and emphasizes the value of transfer competition in Brian Hartline’s receiving room. Can McCuin’s unique skill set help the Buckeyes sustain their championship pedigree?

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If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub

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FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

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Ohio State Buckeyes’ wide receiver room braces for a potential record-shattering season as Jeremiah Smith’s leadership and work ethic set the standard for new faces like Kyle Parker, Brandon Inniss, and Chris Henry Jr. Can Smith’s approach shape the unit into the nation’s most dangerous receiving corps? Meanwhile, Cortez Hankton steps in as receivers coach, facing the challenge of maintaining Buckeye tradition with over 50 newcomers on the roster.

Jay Stephens spotlights Kenyatta Jackson Jr.’s crucial role as the defensive line relies on transfers John Walker, James Smith, and Qua Russaw. Is this group ready to become a dominant force in Big Ten football? On defense, the Buckeyes look to Jermaine Matthews Jr. to anchor a secondary aiming for “no fly zone” status, leveraging his fire and vocal leadership. Mistakes, mentality, and legacy—the Buckeyes’ quest for greatness starts with accountability and belief on both sides of the ball.

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If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub

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FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

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Ohio State Buckeyes enter 2026 with a competitive edge—can Ryan Day’s veteran squad finally break through and reclaim college football’s spotlight? Jay Stephens and Jeff Hunt debate if Ohio State should run Arthur Smith’s offense or stick with Day’s proven approach, spotlighting the impact of experienced leaders like quarterback Julian and the explosive Bo Jackson in the backfield.

Key topics include Ohio State’s advantage with returning starters at key positions, Matt Patricia’s adaptable defensive schemes, and the critical importance of developing a tougher mentality after late-season letdowns against Michigan, Indiana, and Miami. The conversation explores whether the Buckeyes can avoid overthinking on offense, maximize tight end play, and foster a championship mentality to navigate a daunting schedule featuring Texas, Oregon, and Michigan. Is this the year Ohio State overcomes its mental hurdles and re-establishes dominance in the Big Ten and College Football Playoff race?

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If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub

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FanDuel

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

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On3’s latest quarterback and receiver rankings spark heated debate—can elite quarterback-receiver duos truly explain team success, or do inconsistencies between individual and duo rankings leave fans scratching their heads? The Locked On Big Ten Squad analyzes controversial placements: Why is Jayden Maiava ranked third among Big Ten quarterbacks, yet his top wideout drops to an honorable mention? Does the meteoric rise of Purdue’s Josh Hoover and Nick Marsh make sense, or is it pure off-season hype? Attention shifts to the Iowa Hawkeyes’ win total—set at 7.5 by FanDuel. Can Iowa’s new-look offense and a lean senior class maintain Kirk Ferentz’s historic winning consistency against heavyweights like Michigan, Ohio State, and Washington? Predictions fly, rivalries flare, and bold calls are made. Is an eight-win season realistic, or are the Hawkeyes set for a step back in a loaded Big Ten?

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Can Bo Jackson cement himself as Ohio State's next breakout offensive weapon? The Buckeyes' star sophomore running back is primed to headline the ground attack after a 1,000-yard freshman season, and expectations are sky-high for him to avoid the notorious sophomore slump.

The conversation focused on Jackson's elite vision, contact balance, and his role in Arthur Smith’s revamped offense. A key theme that emerged was the influence of Ohio State’s dynamic running back room, featuring names like Isaiah West and Ja'Kobi Jackson, and how their complementary skill sets could spark the offense. The discussion explored recruiting drama surrounding five-star running back David Gabriel Georges and examined how Ohio State’s history of producing NFL-ready running backs could tip the scales. Will Bo Jackson's performance and the Buckeyes’ deep player pipeline be enough to attract top talent and power a championship run?

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If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub

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FanDuel

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

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Ohio State Buckeyes’ Ryan Day faces mounting pressure—can he finally defeat Michigan at home? With the biggest rivalry in college football heating up, questions swirl around Day’s legacy, playoff implications, and the intensity of “The Game.” Does winning the Big Ten Championship now matter more than topping Michigan on Thanksgiving weekend?

Jay Stephens and Mo Murphy break down the Buckeyes’ quarterback stability with Julian Sayin and Tavis Sinclair, dissect the evolving playoff stakes, and debate the true measure of a successful season in Columbus. Insights include the importance of talent versus mentality, future quarterback plans, and what it will take for Ohio State to reclaim dominance over the Wolverines. Is this the year Buckeye Nation gets the home win it craves?

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If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub

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FanDuel

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

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Ohio State Buckeyes prepare for a pivotal season with Julian Sayin poised to elevate his game. After a standout year as college football’s most accurate passer and a Heisman finalist, can Sayin reach new heights—or will working with his third offensive coordinator in as many years spark unexpected challenges for the Buckeyes’ offense?

Jay Stephens spotlights Sayin’s strengths, from elite processing to quick decision-making, and examines areas where mobility and arm strength must improve. The episode breaks down battles on the offensive line, introduces dynamic playmakers like Jeremiah Smith, Brandon Inniss, and Christian Junior, and debates how Arthur Smith’s NFL background could reshape the Buckeyes’ attack. With Big Ten title hopes, a fierce rivalry against Michigan, and playoff aspirations on the line, questions remain: will Sayin’s steady growth power Ohio State forward, or could coaching turnover threaten their pursuit of college football dominance?

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Everydayer Club
If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub

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FanDuel

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

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Ohio State Buckeyes shake up college football recruiting as Cortez Hankton lands top wide receiver prospects Jett Harrison (2028) and Austin Miller (2029), and secures a pivotal commitment from Jameer Brown. Is a new era of elite talent on the horizon for the Buckeyes’ receiver room?

Jay Stephens spotlights Hankton’s immediate recruiting success, the impact of NIL bidding wars, and how these high-profile wins are igniting a contagious drive among the Buckeyes’ coaching staff. Key topics include the hunt for five-star receiver Monshon Sales, efforts to flip Texas Tech commit Benny Easter Jr., and the significance of building a physically dominant, veteran team ahead of training camp. Discussion also covers Ryan Day’s evolving leadership style—will he move from reactive to proactive to keep Ohio State atop the national landscape?

Photo credit: Adam Cairns-Imagn Images

Everydayer Club
If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub

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FanDuel

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

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Big Ten coaching rankings ignite debate as Curt Cignetti’s meteoric rise at Indiana challenges Ryan Day’s Ohio State dominance. Can Cignetti’s underdog playbook outshine traditional powerhouses if given equal resources? The discussion also spotlights Kyle Whittingham’s consistency, questions Dan Lanning’s performance in pressure games, and evaluates where Jedd Fisch and the Washington Huskies truly fit in the new Big Ten landscape. Washington’s daunting 2026 schedule faces scrutiny—can the Huskies surpass expectations with key matchups against USC, Oregon, Penn State, and Iowa? The conversation breaks down Washington’s roster strengths and weaknesses, Jedd Fisch’s offensive strategy, and what it will take for the Huskies to clear FanDuel’s 7.5 win total projection. Which Big Ten coach would you want leading your team through a gauntlet, and how will conference newcomers shake up the hierarchy?

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