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

Big Ten football returns with heavyweight matchups and major questions: Can UCLA’s Bruins outduel the California Golden Bears in a battle of seasoned quarterbacks and new-look coaching staffs? Is Cal’s offense, powered by transfers like Ian Strong and Dorian Thomas, poised to shock the conference? The Big 10 Squad debates the hottest showdowns, bold picks, and the ongoing “beauty bias” hype around UCLA’s Bob Chesney.

From upset alerts with Michigan State vs. Toledo to whether Fresno State can spoil USC’s home opener, the crew forecasts which Big Ten giants might stumble against the spread. The panel spotlights quarterback battles, roster turnover, and quirky traditions—like on-air apple pie bets. Will Wisconsin hang with Notre Dame at Lambeau? Can Marshall or Indiana State cover massive lines? Dive in for sharp betting angles, rivalry banter, and comprehensive Week 1 predictions across the Big Ten landscape.

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Ohio State Buckeyes honor Jim Tressel in the Ring of Honor, spotlighting his legendary legacy and unique sweater vest identity. Can Tressel’s “calm, cool, and collected” coaching style inspire a new era of Buckeye dominance? Matt Fontana and Justin Zwick revisit Tressel’s impact, the renewed bond with Maurice Clarett—who returns to ring the victory bell—and the changing landscape of college football tradition in Columbus.

Bruce Feldman’s anonymous college football coaches’ survey sparks debate around national championship contenders, Heisman favorites like Jeremiah Smith and Dante Moore, and which teams might be overhyped—LSU and USC top the “fraud” list. Plus, Ryan Day compares freshman Legend Bey to Curtis Samuel, announcing him as Ohio State’s kick returner. Can Bay’s speed make him the next great Buckeye playmaker? Get ready for OSU vs. Ball State with all the key storylines and player buzz.

Photo credit: Fred Squillante- Imagn Images

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Ohio State Buckeyes gear up for game week as quarterback Julian Sayin faces unexpected slights from Heisman oddsmakers and national analysts. Can Sayin silence his doubters after being overlooked in preseason lists despite an outstanding first year in Columbus? Host Matt Fontana and former Buckeyes QB Justin Zwick break down Ryan Day’s press conference insights, the evolving Buckeyes depth chart, and the intense backup quarterback battle between Luke Fahey and Tavien St. Clair.

Key talking points include new faces on both sides of the ball—highlighting transfers like Devin McCuin, Earl Little, James Smith, and John Walker—and how an overhauled defensive line could shape Ohio State’s championship hopes. Hear inside analysis of offensive line shakeups, the impact of new turf at Ohio Stadium, and fan-favorite matchups beyond Michigan. Will the Buckeyes dominate Ball State and begin answering critics, or is bigger drama looming ahead of the Texas showdown?

Photo credit: Adam Cairns/Columbus Dispatch / USA TODAY NETWORK via 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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KALSHI
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ULTRA POUCHES

5-Hour ENERGY
Bring on the sweetness with Cotton Candy 5-hour ENERGY®️ shots—available online now at https:/5hourENERGY.com or on Amazon. 

Gametime
Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply.

FanDuel
College football Saturdays are already packed with reasons to get excited, and this season, FanDuel is giving fans even more ways to get in on every matchup. Join all the action at https://FANDUEL.COM 

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 Jeremiah Smith is on the brink of rewriting the program’s record books—could he become the greatest Buckeye receiver ever? Matt Fontana and Justin Zwick break down Smith’s chase for all-time records in receptions, yards, and touchdowns, as well as his leadership as a newly named team captain. The hosts debate where Smith ranks among Ohio State legends like Marvin Harrison Jr., Michael Thomas, and Chris Olave, and explore his chances to join exclusive NCAA company as a Biletnikoff winner and two-time national champion.

On the defensive side, Matt Patricia’s historic first year as Ohio State’s defensive coordinator sparks rumors about his future—and potential head coaching offers. Will the Buckeyes be able to retain Patricia beyond this season? Plus, with NFL roster cuts looming, Ohio State’s pipeline to the pros continues to thrive, with 59 Buckeyes on opening day rosters and major contributors across the league.

Photo credit: Jerome Miron - Imagn Images

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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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Ohio State Buckeyes ignite national championship hopes as a new era begins—can this squad live up to sky-high expectations? Matt Fontana and Justin Zwick break down the Buckeyes’ revamped offensive line, spotlighting Austin Siereveld’s transition to right guard, Ian Moore’s rise at left tackle, and how this unit could shape Julian Sayin’s success under center. Insights include FanDuel’s bold win projections and analysis of the team’s massive roster influx—including 51 new faces—plus how the defensive overhaul under Matt Patricia might be the key to a title run.

Captains and culture take center stage as captains like Peyton Pierce and Jaylen McClain are celebrated for their leadership, while Brandon Innis earns the prestigious Block O honor. The hosts debate their all-time favorite Buckeyes, reflect on traditions, and set the stage for the season’s pivotal matchups. Will the Buckeyes’ blend of experience and fresh talent power them back to the top of college football?

Photo credit: Samantha Madar: 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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Big Ten sets the tone for college football as Tony Petitti leads a bold rule change, shutting out returning NFL players and prompting other power conferences to follow. Can this decisive action keep chaos at bay across the NCAA? Analysts weigh in on the repercussions for stars like Aaron Graves and examine how this “adult in the room” move shapes transfer eligibility and enforcement, with head coach suspensions and hefty fines on the table for violators. Week 0 kicks off with USC facing San Jose State, while Indiana’s projected 10.5 win total sparks lively debate. The squad discusses Big Ten contenders, breakthrough players like Josh Hoover and Bryce Underwood, and how new coaching dynamics could influence Michigan, Nebraska, and Rutgers’ season trajectories. Will Indiana defend its title, or is an upset brewing?

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Big Ten contenders fuel championship buzz as Indiana, Ohio State, Oregon, and Washington jockey for playoff supremacy. Will Josh Hoover elevate Indiana’s defense into NCAA history, or can powerhouse rosters like Oregon and USC crash the party? Heated debates ignite around Penn State’s playoff chances, Washington’s leap to 10 wins, and the pivotal Indiana–Ohio State clash in Bloomington. Host Spencer McLaughlin and the Locked On Big Ten crew break down bold predictions, playoff math, and the season’s must-watch games—including USC vs. Oregon and Indiana’s high-stakes trip to Husky Stadium. Key topics include the potential for four Big Ten teams in the College Football Playoff, the rise of non-quarterback Heisman contenders, and which program could surprise or disappoint. How will coaching changes and stacked schedules redefine the Big Ten landscape in 2026?

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Ohio State Buckeyes’ quarterback competition heats up as true freshman Luke Fahey challenges Tavien St. Clair for the backup spot behind Heisman finalist Julian Sayin. Will Fahey’s quick decision-making and recent loss of his black stripe shake up the Buckeyes’ QB depth chart? Jay Stephens assesses how Ohio State’s loaded quarterback room and fierce camp battles are shaping the team’s outlook, highlighting the development of players like Justin Martyn and the returning Sayin.

The episode also tackles Ohio State’s increasing roster depth—boasting four running backs, six receivers, and 22 players on both offense and defense primed for game action. Jay Stephens questions the administration’s controversial decision to move Senior Day to the home opener against Ball State, arguing tradition should prevail. Catch his candid insights into Ryan Day’s leadership, the Michigan rivalry, and why 2026 could be the Buckeyes’ deepest and most versatile squad yet.

Photo credit: Adam Cairns - Imagn Images

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Ohio State Buckeyes’ defense takes center stage as Matt Patricia looks to unleash Qua Russaw’s edge-rushing potential. Can Patricia’s NFL-caliber schemes unlock a new era for Ohio State’s front seven? Jay Stephens breaks down Russaw’s unconventional fit—shifting from Alabama’s system into a new hybrid linebacker role—while highlighting the evolving philosophy in Larry Johnson’s defensive line room and how these strategic changes could disrupt Big Ten offenses.

Key topics include the addition of Wisconsin transfer Christian Allegro and his relentless, hard-hitting linebacker play, the influx of size with newcomers like James Smith and Jamir Perez, and how Patricia’s influence is transforming the Buckeyes’ identity. Plus: Why Michigan shouldn’t overlook this beefed-up Buckeye squad and what rivalry bragging rights truly mean in Columbus. Is the Buckeyes’ defense poised to dominate college football’s toughest matchups this season?

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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Big Ten challengers slam SEC supremacy as preseason poll debate heats up. Can Michigan and Oregon silence doubters and reclaim conference bragging rights? The Big 10 Squad calls out SEC bias in the On3 preseason Top 25, question Florida’s ranking, and dissect how brand bias skews College Football Playoff perspectives. The team roasts Purdue Athletic Director Tommy McClelland’s bold jab at Indiana’s championship pedigree, with reactions spanning ridicule to strategy breakdowns. Plus, the spotlight shifts to Oregon’s daunting 10.5 win total—the hosts break down the Ducks’ season outlook, key matchups against Ohio State and USC, injury updates, and title-or-bust expectations for Dan Lanning’s squad. Don’t miss this spirited roundtable on Big Ten pride, preseason poll drama, and the true contenders for college football’s ultimate prize.

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