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

Ohio State Buckeyes remain the most recession-proof program in college football, mastering rapid changes from transfer rules to NIL deals. Can Ryan Day’s adaptive recruiting strategy and the Buckeyes’ national brand keep them on top amid relentless upheaval? Discover how Ohio State's strong culture, program stability, and elite player development drive annual championship expectations—even as eligibility rules stretch and transfer chaos grows.

Host Jay Stephens unpacks Ryan Day’s ABC (“always be closing”) approach, highlights the influence of new AD Ross Bjork on fundraising, and explores how the iconic Block O attracts both high-profile recruits and major corporate partnerships. Key topics include Caden Curry’s NFL prospects, the evolving NIL landscape, Ohio Stadium’s potential naming rights sale, and Ohio State’s role as a financial powerhouse. Will changes in transfer policies reshape team retention and educational priorities? Get the inside track on the Buckeyes' formula for winning through change.

00:00 — Ohio State Stability & Adaptation
College football's rapid changes, program stability, Ryan Day's leadership, expectations, and adapting to new realities.

12:44 — Buckeyes National Brand Power
The reach and influence of Ohio State's brand, sponsorships, financial positioning, national appeal, and collaboration with brands.

22:36 — Ryan Day’s Recruiting Evolution
Adapting recruiting strategies, NIL impacts, portal usage vs. high school recruiting, and handling change in college football.

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)

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Big Ten powerhouses collide as Oregon, Michigan, and Penn State each make their case for conference supremacy. Will Dante Moore and Dylan Raiola create college football’s most dangerous quarterback duo and push Dan Lanning’s Oregon Ducks to Indianapolis? Or can Kyle Whittingham’s arrival in Ann Arbor steady Michigan through a brutal schedule featuring Oklahoma, Ohio State, and Penn State, while unlocking the potential of JJ Buchanan and Jamie French? The Big 10 panel breaks down Penn State’s favorable slate under Matt Campbell and the influx of Iowa State stars, debating if this revamped Nittany Lions roster can finally pull off a Big Ten title run. Discussions spotlight key matchups like Penn State-Michigan, Michigan’s West Coast woes, coordinator shake-ups for Oregon, and which team is poised to break into the top tier. With heated takes and bold predictions, this is your go-to preview for the Big Ten’s race to the championship.

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 ramp up competition as Justyn Martin transfers in, raising the stakes for Tavien St. Clair’s development at quarterback. With veteran experience joining the QB room, can St. Clair seize the QB2 role and position himself as the Buckeyes’ future leader? Jay Stephens explores how this new dynamic could shape not just this year’s depth chart, but Ohio State’s long-term offensive power.

Key topics include the impact of Martin’s arrival from Maryland, insights into St. Clair’s growth potential, and the crucial role of new offensive coordinator Arthur Smith. The episode tackles whether a coaching change might stunt quarterback progress, why position battles across the roster matter, and how Ryan Day’s steady presence could influence the Buckeyes’ trajectory. Don’t miss this high-stakes look at Ohio State football’s evolving leadership and what it means for the 2027 season and beyond.

00:00: Justyn Martin Transfer Impact
Jay Stephens discusses Justyn Martin transferring to Ohio State, analyzing how his presence could benefit Tavien St. Clair's development both on and off the field.

08:42: Tavien St. Clair QB2 Competition
Jay Stephens breaks down the importance of Tavien St. Clair's offseason battle to become Ohio State's backup quarterback and why this rare competition is critical for his growth.

21:13: New Offensive Coordinator's Effect
Jay Stephens explores whether new OC Arthur Smith will stunt or help Tavien St. Clair's development, including the challenges of adjusting to a new system and voice.

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)

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Ohio State secure a pivotal 89-82 win over USC, reigniting their NCAA Tournament hopes as Bruce Thornton leads with 21 points. Can the Buckeyes transform this momentum into a season-defining upset against Virginia?

Jay Stephens delivers passionate postgame analysis, spotlighting Devin Royal's fierce performance, Puff Johnson’s clutch defense, and bench contributions from Chapman, Cups, and Govan. Key topics center on Ohio State's improved second-half shooting, resilience in closing out games, and Jake Diebler’s strategic adjustments to limit foul trouble. The show explores how defensive intensity and efficient free-throw shooting might be the formula Ohio State needs for a breakthrough quad 1 win. With conference tournament implications looming and the Sweet 20 win mark in sight, the Buckeyes’ path to the Big Dance just got interesting—will their newfound grit be enough against top-25 Virginia?

00:00 Ohio State vs. USC Reaction
Breakdown of the Buckeyes’ gritty win, shooting struggles, bench contributions, and implications for NCAA tournament chances.

09:00 Women's Basketball Highlights
Kalia Butler spotlights South Carolina’s dominant victory, UCLA’s Big Ten streak, and the importance of hard work behind these achievements.

10:12 Momentum for Buckeyes
Jay Stephens analyzes how Ohio State can sustain momentum: defensive adjustments, key player contributions, bench production, and preview for the Virginia matchup.

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 critical test against USC as the race for an NCAA Tournament spot intensifies. Can Jake Diebler guide the Buckeyes to meet Athletic Director Ross Bjork’s uncompromising standard: making the tournament and staging a deep run? Jay Stephens dissects the Buckeyes’ path, from must-win matchups to Bruce Thornton’s leadership and scoring milestones. The episode scrutinizes roster construction, bench production woes, and the challenges Amari Bynum, Devin Royal, and Kristoff Tilly must overcome to keep postseason hopes alive.

Also spotlighted is Kalia Butler’s look at women’s hoops, celebrating South Carolina’s dominant SEC win under Dawn Staley and Lauren Betts’ standout performance for UCLA. Can Ohio State basketball reclaim its championship pedigree, or will another year slip away? Join the discussion for a passionate breakdown of team morale, tournament hurdles, and the urgent question facing Buckeye Nation: Is this team truly good enough?

00:00 — Beating USC: Tournament Hopes
Jay Stephens discusses why defeating USC is crucial for Ohio State’s path to the NCAA Tournament and breaks down why this is a must-win matchup.

06:24 — Buckeyes’ Standard and Challenges
Jay Stephens examines Ohio State’s struggles to meet Ross Bjork’s program expectations, recent tournament droughts, roster issues, and why a long tournament run seems unlikely this season.

08:45 — Women's Basketball Highlights
Kalia Butler covers South Carolina’s dominance in the SEC, UCLA’s Big Ten win, and underscores the hard work behind these elite programs.

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 double down on powerhouse non-conference scheduling as Jay Stephens argues why matchups against programs like Alabama, Texas, and Georgia are vital for playoff readiness and national respect. Should Ryan Day ignore the growing trend of easier schedules and instead pave his own legacy by taking on the sport’s elite? Plus, get insider thoughts on why testing coaches and players early makes all the difference in championship pursuits.

Jay Stephens shares a bold proposal for a Big Ten–ACC Challenge in football, reviving historic conference rivalries and creating marquee showdowns like Ohio State vs. Clemson. The discussion highlights media rights battles, tradition, and the impact on recruiting and TV revenue. Stick around for quick insights on South Carolina women’s basketball dominance and Lauren Betts’ standout performance for UCLA. Can the Big Ten raise its national profile and set a new standard in college football scheduling?

00:00 Value of Power Non-Conf Games
Jay Stephens discusses the importance of Ohio State scheduling non-conference games against Power Conference teams, opposing trends of canceling such matchups, and lists future marquee opponents.

12:26 Ryan Day’s Path & Scheduling Philosophy
Jay Stephens analyzes Ryan Day’s approach to leadership, following Urban Meyer, and maintaining tough non-conference scheduling despite pressure to soften the slate.

19:10 Big Ten-ACC Challenge Idea
Jay Stephens proposes bringing a Big Ten-ACC Challenge to football (similar to the former basketball event), describing benefits for competition, fans, and TV networks, and outlining a hypothetical structure.

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' defense faces a massive overhaul, but can Matt Patricia’s innovative play-calling and Ryan Day’s portal savvy prevent a major drop-off? Eight starters are gone, yet the Buckeyes reload with transfer standouts like Terry Moore and Earl Little Jr., plus rising stars Devin Sanchez, Zion Grady, and Christian Alliegro. Is Ohio State’s defensive unit truly “recession-proof,” and which new starters will shine this fall?

Jay Stephens spotlights the fierce competition on the defensive front, Matt Patricia’s specialty schemes, and the revamped linebacker group led by Payton Pierce and Riley Pettijohn. The discussion covers how Patricia’s 3-4 sets, new pass rushers, and adjustments in the secondary will shape the upcoming season, plus the importance of trench play against rivals like Texas. Buckeye fans—are you ready to embrace this new era and see which fresh faces rise to the occasion?

00:00 Ohio State Defense Outlook
Jay Stephens opens the show by discussing why he believes Ohio State's defense won't suffer a major drop-off next season despite needing to replace eight defensive starters. Covers roster changes, portal additions, and Ryan Day's strategies.

11:11 Matt Patricia's Defensive Scheme
Jay Stephens analyzes how Matt Patricia’s specialty and strategic approach are an ideal fit for the Buckeyes. He explains Patricia’s use of creative player deployment, his engineering background, and adjustments in defensive philosophy.

20:26 New Starters That Will Shine
Jay Stephens highlights new starters expected to stand out for Ohio State, including Christian Allegro, Devin Sanchez, Zion Grady, Earl Little Jr., and Terry Moore. Discusses their potential impact and why each fits well in Patricia’s system.

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 basketball faces a critical turning point as their NCAA Tournament hopes hang in the balance. Can Bruce Thornton elevate his game and lead the Buckeyes back into contention? Jay Stephens spotlights the urgent need for breakout performances from Thornton, John Mobley Jr., and Kristoff Tilly, as well as the vital spark off the bench from Amari Bynum and a resurgent Devin Royal.

Explore how recent struggles, the lack of a Quad 1 win, and injuries to key players like Brandon Noel have pushed Ohio State to the brink in Big Ten play. With tough matchups against USC, Purdue, Michigan State, and Wisconsin looming, Jay Stephens challenges the Buckeyes to "play like it's pickup basketball"—laying everything on the line to secure their spot in March Madness. Will Ohio State reclaim their identity and prove the doubters wrong?

00:00 — Buckeyes’ NCAA Tournament Hopes
Jay Stephens breaks down Ohio State basketball’s fading NCAA tournament chances and the team’s recent struggles.

07:21 — Must-Step-Up Players
Jay Stephens identifies and analyzes key players who need to elevate their game for OSU to reach March Madness.

14:43 — Bench & Lineup Boosts
Discussion on bench production, injury impacts, and potential lineup changes to spark a tournament 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.

Ohio State Buckeyes build a powerhouse running back room for 2026, aiming to spark a more dynamic and balanced offense under Arthur Smith’s leadership. Can Bo Jackson, Isaiah West, and Ja'Kobi Jackson form the most versatile backfield in recent Buckeye history? Jay Stephens uncovers how Carlos Locklyn’s eye for talent and tough-love coaching brings out the best in a deep rotation—featuring explosive freshmen like Turbo Rodgers and Legend Bey—each with clearly defined roles.

Key topics include the importance of running back versatility, the challenge of pass protection for freshmen, and how improved offensive line play with Luke Montgomery and Ian Moore could unlock Ohio State’s scoring potential. The episode also explores Ryan Day’s search for offensive balance, the skepticism around Arthur Smith’s hire, and how the Buckeyes’ running game could turn the tide in crucial matchups. Will this well-rounded group give Ohio State the edge to contend for a national title?

00:00 — Ohio State Running Back Room Overview
Jay Stephens introduces the well-rounded Ohio State running back group and evaluates Carlos Lachlan's success in building versatile depth for the 2026 season.

09:58 — Defined Roles & Depth Chart Impact
Discussion on the importance of every running back having a clear, defined role within the offense, profiling the top contributors and developmental players.

21:04 — Running Game: Offense Impact & Outlook
Analysis shifts to how a stronger running game can address weaknesses in Ryan Day's offense, including the potential influence of Arthur Smith and the offensive line.

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.
 

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Ohio State Buckeyes endure a crushing 82-61 home defeat to Michigan, exposing serious problems with effort, defense, and roster construction. Can this team rebound in time to salvage their NCAA tournament hopes? Jay Stephens dissects where it all went wrong—highlighting lackluster performances from Kristoff Tillie, John Mobley Jr., and Amari Bonham, plus the Buckeyes’ failure to match Michigan’s physicality and execution.

Key talking points include Michigan’s dominant runs, Jake Diebler’s visible frustration, and the Buckeyes’ concerning trend of poor second-half energy. With upcoming matchups against USC and Wisconsin looming, questions swirl around whether Ohio State can regroup or if another roster overhaul is coming. Find out why this loss is more than a one-off and what it means for the future of Buckeye basketball.

00:00 — Ohio State vs. Michigan Recap
Jay Stephens opens with a passionate reaction to Ohio State’s 21-point loss to Michigan, breaks down the game’s key turning points, and addresses the Buckeyes' lack of energy, effort, and defensive execution.

08:19 — What’s Next for the Buckeyes
Jay Stephens discusses how Ohio State can regroup after this tough loss, previews the upcoming schedule, and raises questions about the team's NCAA tournament hopes and roster construction.

12:29 — Coaching & Roster Concerns
Jay Stephens analyzes the coaching under Jake Diebler, compares it to Michigan’s Dusty May, and explains glaring roster and effort issues that threaten the season and potential player departures.

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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)

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