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

UCLA Basketball implodes as Mick Cronin ejects his own player and clashes with media, sparking debate about his future. Is Cronin’s fiery approach wearing thin, and did UCLA make a costly mistake by extending his contract? Locked On Big Ten Squad tackles Cronin’s meltdown, comparing his antics with Tom Izzo and Matt Painter’s leadership styles, and questions whether postgame outbursts are damaging UCLA’s reputation. The conversation heats up as ESPN rumors swirl about Ohio State, Michigan, and Penn State potentially leaving the Big Ten to cash in on their own alliances. Hosts weigh the risks, benefits, and scheduling headaches of a league without its top brands, while panelists analyze Pat Fitzgerald’s impact at Michigan State and debate whether his hiring truly deserves “worst of the cycle” status. Don’t miss candid insights on Big Ten football’s wild future and the turbulent coaching carousel.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Ohio State Buckeyes reignite their NCAA tournament hopes with a resounding 17-point win over No. 24 Wisconsin, but is the Big Dance truly within reach? Jay Stephens breaks down Bruce Thornton’s explosive impact, Amare Bynum’s consistency, and Devin Royal’s bounce-back game, highlighting how Jake Diebler’s leadership could be the difference-maker in a tumultuous season. With injuries piling up and defensive lapses haunting their past, the Buckeyes must secure key wins against Michigan State, Purdue, and Indiana to keep their postseason dreams alive.

Can Diebler rally his squad to dictate the pace down the stretch and upset college basketball bluebloods? Plus, Kalia Butler spotlights South Carolina women’s basketball’s statement win over LSU—Tessa Johnson and Raven Johnson headline a balanced attack that keeps the Gamecocks atop the SEC. Don’t miss this jam-packed analysis of both Buckeyes’ tournament ambitions and rising figures in women’s college basketball.

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  

Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!

5-Hour ENERGY

Mazda

Turbo Tax

Indeed

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)

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Can Kenyatta Jackson Jr. explode as Ohio State’s next elite defensive end and leader in the Ryan Day era? Jay Stephens explores Jackson’s NFL-caliber traits, breakout potential, and the critical impact of his decision to stay with the Buckeyes for another year. The episode breaks down how Jackson’s leadership will shape a revamped defensive line—featuring Quay Russaw, James Smith, and transfer John Walker—while also comparing his upside to past OSU standouts like Chase Young, Caden Curry, and Jack Sawyer.

Who should wear the coveted Block O jersey in 2026? Jay Stephens debates top candidates, highlighting Jeremiah Smith as the ideal choice while ranking Carson Hinzman and Kenyatta Jackson Jr. as contenders. Listeners get insight into how Ryan Day evaluates program loyalty and performance to set the tone for another championship pursuit in Columbus. Buckeye fans: Is this the year your next defensive superstar emerges?

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  

Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!

5-Hour ENERGY
Have your cake & drink it too. Birthday cake-flavor is back, no fork needed. Vanilla-y cakey flavor, caffeinated kick, and no sugar. It's party time. Order Now at https://5-hourENERGY.com or Amazon.
 

Mazda
Like our players, we’re driven by the details. Because highlights make the reel. What it takes to get there makes it count.
There’s more to a Mazda. Because there’s more to you.

Turbo Tax
For a limited time, you can have your taxes done by a local TurboTax expert for just $150 — all in, if a TurboTax expert didn’t file for you last year. Just file by February 28. Take taxes off your plate and get back to your life. 
Visit https://TurboTax.com/local to book your appointment today. 
 

Indeed
Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast
 

FanDuel
Use your Profit Boost on an NBA future and get entered for your chance to win a trip to the NBA Finals.
Play your game with FanDuel, the official sports betting partner of the NBA. Visit https://FANDUEL.COMto get started. 
 

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)

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Ohio State shocks Wisconsin with Devin Royal’s breakout 25-point performance, reigniting hopes for a March Madness bid. Could this dominant 86-69 victory signal a turning point for the Buckeyes in the Big Ten and the NCAA Tournament race?

Jay Stephens breaks down how improved defensive intensity, key adjustments by Jake Diebler, and standout efforts from Amare Bynum and Taison Chatman powered the Buckeyes past a ranked opponent for the first time this season. From Royal’s late-night shooting grind to Bruce Thornton’s leadership and Ohio State’s much-needed offensive spacing, this episode explores whether the Buckeyes can build on this momentum. Plus, get insights on postseason implications, rotation challenges, and what must click as Ohio State faces Michigan State, Iowa, and Purdue down the stretch. Can the Buckeyes punch their ticket to the Big Dance—or was this upset just a flash?

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  

Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!

5-Hour ENERGY
Have your cake & drink it too. Birthday cake-flavor is back, no fork needed. Vanilla-y cakey flavor, caffeinated kick, and no sugar. It's party time. Order Now at https://5-hourENERGY.com or Amazon.
 

Mazda
Like our players, we’re driven by the details. Because highlights make the reel. What it takes to get there makes it count.
There’s more to a Mazda. Because there’s more to you.

Turbo Tax
For a limited time, you can have your taxes done by a local TurboTax expert for just $150 — all in, if a TurboTax expert didn’t file for you last year. Just file by February 28. Take taxes off your plate and get back to your life. 
Visit https://TurboTax.com/local to book your appointment today. 
 

Indeed
Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast
 

FanDuel
Use your Profit Boost on an NBA future and get entered for your chance to win a trip to the NBA Finals.
Play your game with FanDuel, the official sports betting partner of the NBA. Visit https://FANDUEL.COMto get started. 
 

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)

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Ohio State Buckeyes face a must-win challenge against the No. 22 Wisconsin Badgers as their NCAA Tournament hopes hang in the balance. Can Bruce Thornton carry the team with a breakout performance, and will Tayson Chapman or Amari Bynum step up to ignite an upset? Jay Stephens spotlights the Buckeyes’ need for better defense, balanced scoring, and leadership from head coach Jake Diebler.

Key discussion points include Ohio State’s tournament resume, upcoming matchups with Michigan State and Purdue, and the importance of earning Quad 1 wins. The episode covers the Buckeyes’ struggles in league play, lack of production from the bench, and defensive breakdowns that threaten their postseason aspirations. Will Diebler’s squad silence critics and punch their ticket to March Madness, or is it too late for Ohio State to turn the season around?

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  

Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!

5-Hour ENERGY
Have your cake & drink it too. Birthday cake-flavor is back, no fork needed. Vanilla-y cakey flavor, caffeinated kick, and no sugar. It's party time. Order Now at https://5-hourENERGY.com or Amazon.
 

Mazda
Like our players, we’re driven by the details. Because highlights make the reel. What it takes to get there makes it count.
There’s more to a Mazda. Because there’s more to you.

Turbo Tax
For a limited time, you can have your taxes done by a local TurboTax expert for just $150 — all in, if a TurboTax expert didn’t file for you last year. Just file by February 28. Take taxes off your plate and get back to your life. 
Visit https://TurboTax.com/local to book your appointment today. 
 

Indeed
Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast
 

FanDuel
Use your Profit Boost on an NBA future and get entered for your chance to win a trip to the NBA Finals.
Play your game with FanDuel, the official sports betting partner of the NBA. Visit https://FANDUEL.COMto get started. 
 

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)

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Ohio State Buckeyes secure a major offseason win as Matt Patricia stays put, reinforcing their quest for elite defense. Is Ryan Day building unprecedented coaching stability and recruiting power at Columbus?

Jay Stephens spotlights Patricia’s NFL-caliber expertise, player-tailored defensive schemes, and impact on portal additions like Caleb Downs, Kenyatta Jackson Jr., and Sonny Styles. The conversation explores contract extensions, retention of key assistants such as Tim Walton, James Laurinaitis, and Matt Guerrieri, and how this continuity shapes recruiting and player development. With Arthur Smith joining the staff and offensive roles stable, the Buckeyes signal a new era of sustained excellence. How high can Patricia elevate the defense—and can this coaching unit deliver Ohio State’s next championship run?

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  

Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!

5-Hour ENERGY
Have your cake & drink it too. Birthday cake-flavor is back, no fork needed. Vanilla-y cakey flavor, caffeinated kick, and no sugar. It's party time. Order Now at https://5-hourENERGY.com or Amazon.
 

Mazda
Like our players, we’re driven by the details. Because highlights make the reel. What it takes to get there makes it count.
There’s more to a Mazda. Because there’s more to you.

Turbo Tax
For a limited time, you can have your taxes done by a local TurboTax expert for just $150 — all in, if a TurboTax expert didn’t file for you last year. Just file by February 28. Take taxes off your plate and get back to your life. 
Visit https://TurboTax.com/local to book your appointment today. 
 

Indeed
Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast
 

FanDuel
Use your Profit Boost on an NBA future and get entered for your chance to win a trip to the NBA Finals.
Play your game with FanDuel, the official sports betting partner of the NBA. Visit https://FANDUEL.COMto get started. 
 

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)

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Ohio State Buckeyes basketball faces a critical juncture as questions swirl around head coach Jake Diebler’s inexperience and the team’s NCAA tournament hopes. Can Diebler rally the squad and silence the doubters after disappointing Big Ten play and a crushing home loss to Michigan? Jay Stephens spotlights roster challenges, puzzling transfer portal moves, and the lack of bench production as key hurdles in the Buckeyes’ postseason push.

Analysis focuses on Amare Bynum’s recent surge, John Mobley Jr.'s resilience, and how Ohio State must adopt a must-win mentality for the final six regular season games. With Diebler under the microscope and fan patience wearing thin, the looming matchup against Wisconsin could define the season. Will the Buckeyes rise above mediocrity, or is change on the horizon for Ohio State basketball?

00:00 Buckeyes Basketball Struggles Persist

04:29 "Ohio State Basketball Future Uncertain"

08:22 "Indeed Sponsored Jobs Benefits"

11:57 "Must-Win Stretch for Buckeyes"

14:33 "Ohio State Bench Production Struggles"

17:38 "Locked on Buckeyes Updates"

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  

Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!

5-Hour ENERGY
Have your cake & drink it too. Birthday cake-flavor is back, no fork needed. Vanilla-y cakey flavor, caffeinated kick, and no sugar. It's party time. Order Now at https://5-hourENERGY.com or Amazon.
 

Mazda
Like our players, we’re driven by the details. Because highlights make the reel. What it takes to get there makes it count.
There’s more to a Mazda. Because there’s more to you.

Turbo Tax
For a limited time, you can have your taxes done by a local TurboTax expert for just $150 — all in, if a TurboTax expert didn’t file for you last year. Just file by February 28. Take taxes off your plate and get back to your life. 
Visit https://TurboTax.com/local to book your appointment today. 
 

Indeed
Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast
 

FanDuel
Use your Profit Boost on an NBA future and get entered for your chance to win a trip to the NBA Finals.
Play your game with FanDuel, the official sports betting partner of the NBA. Visit https://FANDUEL.COMto get started. 
 

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)

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Ohio State Buckeyes unlock a new level with Julian Sayin by picking up the offensive pace. Is a faster tempo the key to a championship run, or could it backfire during the season's longest grind yet?

Jay Stephens breaks down how an uptempo offense aligns with Sayin's strengths and supports Bo Jackson, Isaiah West, and the receiving corps. The episode explores Arthur Smith’s arrival as offensive coordinator, Ryan Day’s evolving philosophy, and the impact of play-calling speed on player development and playoff readiness. Key topics include the risks and benefits of tempo, potential for tighter games against Texas, Oregon, and Michigan, and how offensive rhythm translates to postseason success. Will the Buckeyes' shift in strategy push them past their rivals, or expose new weaknesses?

Don’t miss this high-energy analysis of Ohio State's path toward a memorable 2026 football season.

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  

Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!

5-Hour ENERGY
Have your cake & drink it too. Birthday cake-flavor is back, no fork needed. Vanilla-y cakey flavor, caffeinated kick, and no sugar. It's party time. Order Now at https://5-hourENERGY.com or Amazon.
 

Mazda
Like our players, we’re driven by the details. Because highlights make the reel. What it takes to get there makes it count.
There’s more to a Mazda. Because there’s more to you.

Turbo Tax
For a limited time, you can have your taxes done by a local TurboTax expert for just $150 — all in, if a TurboTax expert didn’t file for you last year. Just file by February 28. Take taxes off your plate and get back to your life. 
Visit https://TurboTax.com/local to book your appointment today. 
 

Indeed
Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast
 

FanDuel
Use your Profit Boost on an NBA future and get entered for your chance to win a trip to the NBA Finals.
Play your game with FanDuel, the official sports betting partner of the NBA. Visit https://FANDUEL.COMto get started. 
 

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)

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Ohio State Buckeyes squander a golden upset opportunity in a crushing 70-66 loss to #15 Virginia. Can Jay Stephens pinpoint why the Buckeyes falter late in big games—especially without key scorer John Mobley Jr.? Bruce Thornton’s 28-point explosion nearly carried Ohio State, but costly turnovers, missed rebounds, and ice-cold shooting in the final 10 minutes highlight the team’s struggles to close out elite opponents.

Jay Stephens breaks down critical moments, including Devin Royal’s costly mistakes, Christoph Tilly’s rebounding woes, and Jake Diebler’s battle to restore player confidence with the Big Ten and NCAA tournament hopes slipping away. Is this the turning point for Diebler, or will the Buckeyes miss the big dance? Plus, key analysis on upcoming matchups, bubble talk, and the urgent need for consistency beyond Thornton. Buckeye Nation, this is a must-listen postmortem on a season-defining defeat.

00:00 — Buckeyes Lose to Virginia:
Jay Stephens opens by recapping Ohio State's tough 70-66 loss to Virginia and sets the context for the episode.

11:46 — Buckeyes' Season Outlook & Next Steps:
Jay Stephens analyzes what the loss means for Ohio State’s NCAA tournament hopes, discusses internal challenges, and examines what head coach Jake Diebler must do moving forward.

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  

Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!

5-Hour ENERGY
Have your cake & drink it too. Birthday cake-flavor is back, no fork needed. Vanilla-y cakey flavor, caffeinated kick, and no sugar. It's party time. Order Now at https://5-hourENERGY.com or Amazon.
 

Mazda
Like our players, we’re driven by the details. Because highlights make the reel. What it takes to get there makes it count.
There’s more to a Mazda. Because there’s more to you.

Turbo Tax
For a limited time, you can have your taxes done by a local TurboTax expert for just $150 — all in, if a TurboTax expert didn’t file for you last year. Just file by February 28. Take taxes off your plate and get back to your life. 
Visit https://TurboTax.com/local to book your appointment today. 
 

Indeed
Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast
 

FanDuel
Today’s episode is sponsored by FanDuel. The Winter Games are on. And there’s no better way to follow them than with a bet on FanDuel. FanDuel - Play your game.
 

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)

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Ohio State Buckeyes face a pivotal test as they prepare to upset Virginia in a rare February non-conference clash. Bruce Thornton—now the fifth all-time scorer in Ohio State basketball history—must deliver a standout, tournament-level performance for the Buckeyes to secure a crucial Quad 1 win. Will Thornton’s leadership and on-court control ignite momentum for the Buckeyes’ NCAA tournament hopes?

Host Jay Stephens analyzes how this matchup could reshape Ohio State's postseason outlook, examining Thornton’s influence alongside contributions from Devin Royal, John Mobley Jr., Puff Johnson, and Christoph Tilly. Key topics include the Buckeyes’ defensive communication struggles, high-stakes opportunities for Quad 1 victories, and why focusing on one game at a time is essential for turning a bubble team into a tournament lock. Is Ohio State ready to rise under pressure, or will doubts about their consistency prove valid?

00:00 — Bruce Thornton Must Lead
Discussion of Ohio State's need for Bruce Thornton to step up against Virginia, his leadership, scoring, and impact.

05:46 — Buckeyes' NCAA Tournament Chances
Analysis of Ohio State's tournament prospects, Quad 1 wins, focus on Virginia, and remaining season outlook.

12:15 — Optimism vs. Doubt
Weighing the Buckeyes' strengths and weaknesses, Jay's realistic but optimistic take on their possible run.

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  

Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!

5-Hour ENERGY
Have your cake & drink it too. Birthday cake-flavor is back, no fork needed. Vanilla-y cakey flavor, caffeinated kick, and no sugar. It's party time. Order Now at https://5-hourENERGY.com or Amazon.
 

Mazda
Like our players, we’re driven by the details. Because highlights make the reel. What it takes to get there makes it count.
There’s more to a Mazda. Because there’s more to you.

Turbo Tax
For a limited time, you can have your taxes done by a local TurboTax expert for just $150 — all in, if a TurboTax expert didn’t file for you last year. Just file by February 28. Take taxes off your plate and get back to your life. 
Visit https://TurboTax.com/local to book your appointment today. 
 

Indeed
Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast
 

FanDuel
Today’s episode is sponsored by FanDuel. The Winter Games are on. And there’s no better way to follow them than with a bet on FanDuel. FanDuel - Play your game.
 

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)

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.