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

Ohio State Buckeyes silence SEC critics as preseason coaches poll puts them at #1—can Ryan Day's squad withstand a daunting schedule and reclaim national glory?

Jay Stephens spotlights the Buckeyes' fierce 2026 football slate, debunking ESPN's SEC bias by revealing Ohio State faces six top-25 opponents, including Oregon, Texas, USC, Michigan, and Iowa. The episode dives into key training camp position battles, from Julian Sayin’s push to follow in the footsteps of Justin Fields and CJ Stroud, to Ian Moore anchoring the offensive line and James Smith emerging on defense. With fresh talent, high expectations, and swagger, are the Buckeyes built to thrive as college football’s hunted?

Get expert analysis on Ohio State's rivalry goals, Heisman contenders, and why preseason rankings set the stage for a blockbuster season in the Big Ten.

Photo credit: Adam Cairns - Imagn Images

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KALSHI

The Game

Wayfair

Indeed

Gametime

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Ohio State Buckeyes’ national championship hopes hinge on the breakout performance of their running backs. Can Bo Jackson, Isaiah West, Ja'Kobi Jackson, and Legend Bay power the team to the top, or will unproven depth be their Achilles’ heel? Jay Stephens spotlights Ryan Day’s public challenge to the RB room and traces how elite backfield play has marked every Buckeyes title run.

Key insights include how Ohio State’s roster depth, with talents like Julian Sayin and Jeremiah Smith, grants the offense new versatility and freedom heading into a high-stakes season. Jay Stephens examines evolving team goals under the expanded College Football Playoff, the fierce battle at tight end between Hunter Welcing and Nate Roberts, and the impact of portal additions like John Walker. Will a sharper focus on beating Michigan and maximizing team talent finally crack the Big Ten title drought and return the Buckeyes to college football’s summit?

Photo credit: Jerome Miron-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

The Game

Wayfair

Indeed

Gametime

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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Christoph Tilly’s potential return could be the game-changer Ohio State Basketball needs. With a recent eligibility ruling opening the door, Head Coach Jake Diebler faces the crucial decision of bringing back the veteran big man to strengthen a roster that features Amari Bynum, John Mobley Jr., and exciting new talent. Is a late off-season reunion with Tilly the missing piece for a deep Big Ten run?

Jay Stephens breaks down the Buckeyes’ frontcourt depth, analyzing the impact of Tilly versus newcomers like Andrija Jelovic and Vuk Lazarevic. The conversation spotlights the challenges and chemistry risks that come with a last-minute roster addition, the importance of mental and physical toughness under new strength coach Dave Richardson, and how Ohio State’s evolving core could shape their season. Can Ohio State’s blend of returning stars and fresh faces propel them to Big Ten dominance?

Photo credit: Kamil Krzaczynski-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

The Game

Wayfair

Indeed

Gametime

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 football could get a scheduling shake-up as Ryan Day pushes for an earlier start to the season, shorter playoff gaps, and more uniform game weeks—moves that would streamline the path to a national championship. Could these changes help the Buckeyes maintain peak performance and avoid the dreaded post-season layoff that plagues contenders each year?

Jay Stephens breaks down the potential elimination of the Big Ten Championship, Tony Petitti’s 24-team playoff vision, and the impact of new NCAA eligibility rulings. What would the 2024 Buckeyes defense look like with Caden Curry back alongside Kenyatta Jackson Jr.? Get insights on depth chart ramifications, transfer portal movement, and why the evolving college football landscape might mirror the NFL more than ever. Buckeyes fans won’t want to miss this strategic look at the road ahead.

Photo credit: Samantha Madar - 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

The Game

Wayfair

Indeed

Gametime

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’ offense is set for a major transformation as Arthur Smith brings NFL-style freedom and tempo to Columbus. Can Julian Sayin and Jeremiah Smith finally unleash the team’s full potential and erase last season’s struggles? Jay Stephens spotlights the renewed offensive philosophy, the increasing autonomy at the line of scrimmage for Sayin, and why Buckeye receivers will have more options in their routes than ever before.

Key discussions include the offseason chemistry built between Sayin and Smith in the weight room, Jeremiah Smith’s critical stance on last year’s lackluster YAC stats, and how the new staff—featuring Cortez Hankton and returning standouts—are raising expectations. Insights into Big Ten Media Days, the future of conference championship games, and candid thoughts on the program’s evolving mindset further round out this deep dive into Ohio State’s high-powered season ahead.

Photo credit: Samantha Madar - 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

The Game

Wayfair

Indeed

Gametime

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 face one of their toughest football schedules in years, but Ryan Day’s squad isn’t backing down—they’re fired up to prove why they belong among college football’s elite. Can stars like Kenyatta Jackson Jr. rise to the challenge and set the tone from week one?

Jay Stephens breaks down the Buckeyes’ demanding lineup, including road battles at Texas, Iowa, and USC, plus home clashes with Oregon and the Michigan Wolverines. Insights include Ryan Day’s aggressive camp plans, the timeline for settling the offensive line, early season keys, and what valuable lessons young talents like Jeremiah Smith, Julian Sayin, and Jaylen McClain can learn from high-stakes matchups. Will Ohio State’s physical preparation and strategic roster moves pay off by December’s Big Ten title game? Dive into the critical decisions and storylines shaping the Buckeyes’ quest for championship glory.

Photo credit: Kamil Krzaczynski-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

The Game

Wayfair

Indeed

Gametime

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 elevate expectations as Jaylen McClain emerges as the only defender representing the team at Big Ten Media Days. Can McClain fill the void left by Caleb Downs and anchor a defense stacked with potential? Jay Stephens examines McClain’s leadership, on-field versatility, and breakout potential, setting the stage for a pivotal sophomore season.

Big Ten Media Days heat up with Ryan Day, Julian Sayin, and Jeremiah Smith in the spotlight, while anticipation builds for a Buckeyes squad loaded with experienced talent and high-powered transfers. From deep dives into position battles and standout players like Isaiah West and Bo Jackson, to insights on media poll rankings favoring Ohio State for the conference title, Jay Stephens breaks down coaching storylines, roster changes, and what the Buckeyes must do to seize control of the Big Ten. Will this be the year Ohio State turns talent into a championship run?

Photo credit: Samantha Madar - 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

Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!

KALSHI

The Game

Wayfair

Indeed

Gametime

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 look to unleash a more confident Devin Sanchez, setting the stage for a potential “no-fly zone” defense this season. Can Sanchez’s growth opposite Jermaine Mathews Jr. elevate the Buckeyes’ secondary to national dominance? Jay Stephens dissects Sanchez’s mental shift, drawing parallels to Denzel Burke and revisiting Darrelle Revis’s elite mindset as the key to true difference-making at cornerback.

With Big Ten Media Days approaching, Jay Stephens explores tight end Hunter Welcing’s mission to maximize his role after transferring from Northwestern. The episode debates Ohio State’s offensive position battles and the impact of experience versus raw talent. Plus, the decision of 5-star running back David Gabriel Georges to choose Tennessee sparks the question—did Ohio State dodge a bullet? Insights into recruitment strategies, locker room expectations, and what separates contenders from pretenders make this a must-listen for Buckeye Nation.

Photo credit: Jerome Miron-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

The Game

Wayfair

Indeed

Gametime

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 boast the nation’s most underrated backfield duo—can Isaiah West’s explosive potential and Bo Jackson’s consistency power a title run? With a demanding schedule ahead, the spotlight shifts to the overlooked depth and versatility within the Buckeyes’ offense, where West’s vision and patience stand out despite being overshadowed. Is this the year Ohio State’s two-headed monster finally surpasses expectations in the Big Ten and make national waves?

The conversation focused on transfer linebacker Christian Alliegro’s immediate impact, James Laurinaitis’ eye for talent, and why team cohesion outweighs any single player’s contributions. A key theme that emerged was Ohio State’s unwavering commitment to collective effort, highlighted by recruiting challenges, NIL dynamics, and the philosophy that winning a national championship takes a village, not just star power. Will the Buckeyes’ depth and culture prove the difference against marquee opponents like Texas and Michigan?

Photo credit: Jeff Hanisch - 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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Odoo

Gametime

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 score a major recruiting boost as four-star quarterback Brady Edmunds locks in his commitment, shutting down interest from UCLA and other top suitors. Is Edmonds the missing piece to keep the Buckeyes' 2027 recruiting class among the nation’s elite?

Jay Stephens breaks down the huge recruiting win for Ryan Day’s program, examining Edmunds’ Elite 11 finalist pedigree and what this means for Ohio State’s offensive future. Key topics include the ripple effect on targets like Benny Easter Jr., Jamier Brown, and offensive line prospects, as well as the recruiting setback with David Gabriel Georges’ decision to join Tennessee. With USC and UCLA left watching, can the Buckeyes maintain momentum and attract more blue-chip talent?

Photo credit: Lori Schmidt - 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

Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!

Odoo

Gametime

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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