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Ohio State at The Voice of College Football episodes

August 20Ohio State Buckeyes LIVE 383
Ohio State Buckeyes LIVE 383 Voice of College Football | Hosts: Mark Rogers, Steve Helwagen (Bucknuts 247), Tony Gerdeman (Buckeye Weekly) Wednesday episode, mid-August camp (roughly 2.5 weeks from season opener vs. Ball State; Week 2 at Texas)
00:00–00:31 — Intro and camp context
Mark opens noting everyone in college football is grinding through August camp. Ohio State is working to justify the No. 1 ranking, though championship expectations in Columbus exist regardless of preseason polls. Steve and Tony join after a slight delay. Season is close enough to “taste it.”
00:31–07:47 — Running back room
Steve spoke with the RBs and TEs. Isaiah West opened camp as the No. 1 back. Ryan Day indicated Bo Jackson has come on strongly. Possible explanations: Bo was slower returning from a shoulder procedure than West, or coaches were sending a message.
Day wants Bo to finish runs and run over defenders—things they didn’t see enough of last year. Bo rushed for 1,000 yards as a freshman but mostly in 4–5 yard chunks rather than explosive or punishing runs. Coaches are optimistic about the leap.
Isaiah West and Jacoby Jackson (Florida transfer, valued as a pass-catcher out of the backfield) will both play; they’re likely 2 and 3. Depth includes freshman Legend Bay, redshirt freshman Turbo Rogers, and true freshman Favre Aki. The group has limited experience beyond the Jacksons and West but is expected to take a step under Carlos Locklin and become a top position group.
Mark notes Bo had a fine freshman year as the main back at Ohio State, but elite OSU backs must create extra yards (make someone miss in the backfield or turn a 6–8 yard gain into 15–50). Competition is healthy. Ohio State historically features one featured back (Zeke, J.K. Dobbins) more often than a three-headed committee like Alabama/Georgia, though Henderson/Judkins sharing 1,000-yard seasons in the title year showed it can work.
07:47–12:22 — Biggest worries and offensive line
Steve’s top concern: injuries to key players. Camp has been relatively clean. Austin Sereveld missed some practices last week but was in full uniform after practice and appears back. The 64,000-dollar question is whether he plays left tackle or right guard.
Possible alignments: Ian Moore at LT + Sereveld at RG, or Sereveld at LT + Josh Padilla at RG. Steve leans toward Moore at LT. The running game (line, play-calling, and backs) needs to become more dynamic than last year.
12:22–21:26 — AP preseason poll
Ohio State is No. 1 with a commanding 40–14 first-place vote edge over Oregon. Top 7 largely matches the coaches poll (one flip: Notre Dame and Texas). Media often follows the coaches poll.
Historical note: Ohio State has never gone wire-to-wire from a true preseason No. 1 (1942 was mid-October after games had been played). 1998 is the famous near-miss (lost to Michigan State after sitting No. 1 for weeks). Only three teams have done it in the last 25 years.
Tony ran preseason rankings since 2020: if form holds, No. 20 Tennessee would win the title like Indiana last year. Clemson is unranked for the first time under Dabo since 2011. Ryan Day’s preseason rankings under him: 1, 3, 2, 3, 2, 4, 2, 5 — consistently better than Urban Meyer’s.
Discussion of Paul Finebaum saying Indiana has “no chance.” Panel views it as an unintelligent statement even if it might prove correct; Indiana just won it and can do it again, even if they don’t expect it.
21:26–30:19 — Coaching tiers and Day’s place
Athletic.com coaching tiers piece (Chris Vannini): Tier 1 is Curt Cignetti and Kirby Smart. Ryan Day is in Tier 2 with James Franklin, Mario Cristobal, Kalen DeBoer, Marcus Freeman, Lane Kiffin, Dan Lanning, Steve Sarkisian, Dabo Swinney, and Kyle Whittingham.
Hosts call it comical. Day has dominated most of that group (roughly 14-5 record cited). Putting him with recently fired or underperforming coaches (Franklin especially) while citing Ohio State’s resources/expectations as a knock is mental gymnastics. Day is on pace for NCAA record-book winning percentage and will hit 90/100 wins faster than any OSU coach.
Comparison of “established winners” vs. championship pedigree. Resources/NIL (Alabama’s issues, “haves and have-nots”) should factor in evaluations.
30:19–36:32 — Day vs. Urban Meyer
National title now evens the ledger somewhat. Day’s 2-4 vs. Michigan is the sore thumb compared with Meyer’s dominance. Day has one Big Ten title to Meyer’s three (2014, 2017, 2018). Day has a strong record vs. ranked teams.
Context: Day faced the best Michigan teams (including a national champion). Meyer faced weaker Michigan squads and a different Big Ten. Sign-stealing and missed tackles factored into some losses. A second title would put Day in rare air (Tressel, Meyer, Paul Brown never got two). Both belong on the stadium facade.
36:32–40:04 — Broader poll and team thoughts
Hosts wouldn’t necessarily vote Ohio State No. 1 but have no issue with it. Ohio State is the safest “top-5 finisher” pick year after year. Anyone in the top 6–7 can win it all if they stay healthy and get hot.
Skepticism on Texas A&M (“what have they ever done?”). Growing belief in Oklahoma’s defense (could be among the best) and John Mateer’s health. Tony likes Oklahoma to beat Michigan in the Big House based on scheme vs. Bryce Underwood’s prior numbers.
40:04–42:00 — Steve’s departure
Steve leaves for a Ghana Club event honoring Archie Griffin as Man of the Year (Jim Tressel speaking). Joke about not hassling Archie for autographs. Collectors now pay to get into open practices for young-player autographs.
42:00–47:24 — Social media, AI, and fan culture
Tony and Mark discuss terrible internet takes, AI-generated fake stats/charts, and entitled Ohio State fans who treat Michigan wins as expected (“Wheel of Fortune RSTLE”) and complain about Julian Sayin, Brandon Inniss, Ross Bjork, etc. Ohio State fans are fortunate and should appreciate the consistency. ChatGPT is a terrible football research tool. Fake AI stories (Ryan Day saving a puppy) get believed.
47:24–end — Upcoming content and close
Tony recorded Buckeye Weekly episodes dropping soon, including one on what Arthur Smith is bringing to the offense (multiple things from one or two alignments confusing the defense). Saturday’s scrimmage: defense had trouble with the offense due to execution, not just bells and whistles. Stock-up/stock-down pieces (5 offense, 5 defense) at BuckeyeInsiders.com.
Mark will have full Michigan-show duties starting next week. Show airs Wednesdays at 4 p.m. ET. Mark takes calls weeknights at 9 ET on the main channel.
Key takeaways for notes
Bo Jackson competition and “next-level” run game are central camp storylines.

OL tackle/guard question (Sereveld) remains unresolved.

Preseason No. 1 comes with historical baggage Ohio State has never fully escaped.

Strong pushback on Day being placed in the same coaching tier as Franklin/Sarkisian/Kiffin.

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50 min
August 19Should the Buckeyes Be #1? / Ohio State Primetime LIVE 98 Presented By FanDuel
Ohio State Primetime LIVE 98: Should the Buckeyes Be #1? Hosts: Garrison Gaddy & Riley Burnett | Presented by FanDuel | OhioStateVOCFB
Intro (0:31)
Welcome to Ohio State Primetime Live. Garrison and Riley recap the usual asks: like/share/subscribe and check vocfb.com/shop for hats, koozies, and tees.
Ohio State No. 1 in the Preseason AP Poll (1:03)
Ohio State opens the 2026 season ranked No. 1 for the first time since 2015. The Buckeyes received 41 first-place votes. Oregon got 14, Indiana 8, Notre Dame 6, and Miami 1. Georgia received zero. No SEC team earned a first-place vote.
Both hosts were surprised. Garrison expected Ohio State at No. 2 or 3 at best. Riley attributed the ranking to overall roster talent, returning production, and the incoming freshman class. They agreed any of the top seven teams could reasonably be argued as No. 1, but winning last year’s championship should not automatically confer the preseason top spot.
Other Ranking Thoughts (4:07)
Texas A&M at No. 8 is too high. Garrison called himself a “full-blown Texas A&M hater,” citing a soft conference schedule last year and Marcel Reed’s turnover issues.

LSU at 11 is boom-or-bust with Lincoln Riley.

USC at 14 and Michigan at 16 felt reasonable; Alabama’s drop outside the top 10 (ending a seven-year streak) was understandable given what they have to prove.

Back half of the poll: SMU 19, Tennessee 20, Iowa 22, Louisville 24. They’ll be cheering for Louisville.
Ohio State’s Daunting Schedule (8:36)
The official slate starts with No. 1 Ohio State at No. 5 Texas in Week 2 (night game, 6:30 p.m. local). Both teams get a Week 1 tune-up first (Ohio State vs. Ball State at home). Texas camp reports (via Boog and others) described Arch Manning still missing throws, two interceptions in a scrimmage, and a Ryan Wingo drop. Garrison still likes Ohio State by at least a touchdown.
Later notable games:
Illinois (Illibuck rivalry)

At No. 22 Iowa (tough venue, possible night game; they recalled Oregon’s struggles there last year)

Maryland (homecoming)

At No. 6 Indiana

At USC (starting center lost for the season; backup has never taken a snap at the position)
Ohio State is currently a 1.5-point underdog at Texas (total 47.5). Hosts like the number and expect to know the over/under fate by the end of the first quarter.
Ranking the Six Ranked Matchups by Importance (16:16)
Garrison (most to least important):
Oregon

Michigan

Indiana

Texas

USC

Iowa
He called the Oregon game the biggest for the Big Ten and the national landscape.
Riley: Iowa 6th (talent gap at skill positions), Texas next (non-conference road night game), then USC, Indiana (revenge for last year’s Big Ten title game), Michigan (heart over head), Oregon as the biggest conference/national game. Four of the six are on the road.
They agreed the Michigan game remains “the game” inside the programs but Oregon carries more weight on a larger scale.
Chris Canty’s Miami Triplets Take (22:29)
Canty argued Miami’s QB-RB-WR trio (Darian Mensah, Mark Fletcher, Malachi Toney) is better than Ohio State’s (Julian Sayin, Bo Jackson, Jeremiah Smith).
Hosts rejected it strongly:
Jeremiah Smith is not comparable to Toney (X vs. slot; significant talent gap).

Sayin is a far better decision-maker than Mensah.

Bo Jackson outproduced Fletcher on fewer carries (6.1 ypc vs. 5.5) and is a better receiving back. Jackson also had a 22-carry game vs. Michigan, something neither Quinshon Judkins nor TreVeyon Henderson did the year before.

Volume stats favor Miami because Duke/Miami played from behind more often.
They called the comparison unfair and said Canty was “dead wrong.”
Senior Day Moved Off Michigan Week (33:13)
Ryan Day shifted Senior Day so the team can focus more on the Michigan game. Garrison (former player) said he doesn’t care about the 45-minute pregame hugs when players should be locked in. Both believe every senior would rather beat Michigan than take the photo. Riley noted this follows last year’s decision to move the band/CJ Stroud video out of Michigan week.
AP Preseason All-America Teams (39:38)
They walked through the first team:
QB: Dante Moore (no issue)

RBs: Kwion Lacy and Ahmad Hardy (Hardy the best back in the country)

OL: Carter Smith (Indiana) as the top lineman; no Ohio State players

TE: Trey’Dez Green (LSU) — they preferred Oregon’s Jefferson

WRs: Jeremiah Smith (lock), Malachi Toney, Cam Coleman

Edges: Colin Simmons and Dylan Stewart (both still have to prove it)

LBs: Rasheem Biles, Xavier Atkins, Elijah Hardy (Indiana — best LB in the country)

CBs: Leonard Moore and Ellis Robinson IV (hosts prefer Brandon Finney)

Safeties: K.J. Bolden and Corey Persh (Jalen McClain close)
Overall grade: B+/A-.
Athletic Coaching Tiers (48:11)
Chris Benigni’s 2026 coaching tiers placed Ryan Day in Tier 2. Hosts were furious. They argued Day belongs in Tier 1 given his win percentage and recent championship. They ripped the placements of Sarkisian, James Franklin, Kalen DeBoer, Dabo Swinney, and others, saying no consistent logic (trophy case or recency) holds the list together.
Outro (54:48)
Thanks for watching. Shows typically air Tuesdays at 7 p.m. ET plus the Thursday call-in with Denzel. O-H… I-O.

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56 min
August 18Ohio State Football AP Poll OSU 1/ QB Battle/ Bo Jackson Back On Top Horseshoe Hangover Live 10
Horseshoe Hangover Live 10 – Ohio State AP Poll, QB Battle & Bo Jackson Hosts: Brad Thomas & Denzel Jones | OhioStateVOCFB
Ohio State sits at No. 1 in the preseason AP Poll for the first time since 2015. The guys break down the ranking, camp standouts who lost their black stripes, the QB room, Bo Jackson reclaiming the backfield, and the decision to move Senior Day to the Ball State opener.
Intro & Weekend (0:00–1:05)
Brad notes the show started without a countdown. Both recap a work-heavy weekend. Denzel did chores and hit the pool; Brad worked through the weekend. They are in full college football prep mode with the season one week away.
AP Poll: Buckeyes No. 1 (1:06–4:42)
Ohio State is No. 1, Oregon No. 2. First time the Buckeyes have been preseason No. 1 since Urban Meyer in 2015.
Brad likes the talent recognition but hates when Ohio State is No. 1.

They credit Ohio State, Oregon, and Georgia for consistent year-in, year-out success. Ohio State is replacing 11 NFL players but reloads every year.

Texas at No. 5 feels both overrated and underrated — expensive roster that often underwhelms.

Indiana at No. 6 is fair (Denzel would have them at 4). They lost a lot, including the QB, and the new portal additions aren’t as cohesive as the James Madison group. Question is whether Curt Cignetti can do it year after year.

Next Big Ten teams: USC, Michigan, Washington, Penn State clustered 14–18.

Denzel would drop Penn State and swap them with Iowa. Iowa has a track record; Penn State has an unknown new coach and lost pieces. Washington also feels a bit overrated.
Freshmen Losing Black Stripes (4:43–9:00)
Five true freshmen have already lost their black stripes.
Kari Wilder is Denzel’s most exciting. Rose from lower-ranked recruit to rave reviews. Looks like a second- or third-year player and belongs next to Kenyatta Jackson. Projected as a 100-snap guy by next year.

Jay Timmons is Brad’s pick. Has a real chance at meaningful snaps, possibly starting at nickel. NFL pedigree and physical.

Secondary logjam: If Dom Kelly starts and Timmons plays nickel, where does Jermaine Matthews go? Matthews is getting the least hype but came back for a reason and should play/start early. Younger guys will push.

Luke Fahey (QB) lost his stripe early. Ryan Day has praised how quickly he’s picking up the offense and pushing Tavian St. Clair. Both hosts are skeptical he’ll actually take the job because of the size difference (Fahey ~5-10/5-11 vs. St. Clair 6-5). They view Day’s comments as a motivational “wake-up call.” If Fahey actually jumped St. Clair, St. Clair would likely transfer. Comparison to Stetson Bennett (undersized gamer). Tate Martell mention as a cautionary tale.
Legend Bay & Running Back Room (9:01–14:07)
Legend Bay has been running with the 1s and 2s and getting rave reviews as a contributor behind Bo Jackson. Explosive, taking things to the house. Day said he’s still learning the position but is clearly a weapon.
Hosts expect him to go off against Ball State (Bo and Isaiah West likely sitting by halftime). Turbo (Jeremiah Smith? wait, they said Turbo/Faber) and another back (Faber?) have gone quiet — good problem with four backs making plays.
Offensive Line (14:08–16:50)
Denzel’s preferred starting five: Ian Moore LT, Luke Montgomery LG, Hensman C, Cervo RG, Daniels RT. Most experience and best transition.
Arthur Smith wants a core five for chemistry plus rotation. Ian Moore is the likely plug-in. Padilla mentioned as a possible swing/RG option if Daniels struggles. Smith was high on Moore.
Bo Jackson Back on Top (16:51–19:20)
Early camp concern that Bo Jackson might lose the job has evaporated. Multiple beat writers say it’s clearly Bo’s backfield. He looks quicker laterally and is getting to the second level.
Stat drop: third in the country in 10-yard runs last year (first downs). Hosts think the “no breakaway speed” knock is overblown. Big year expected; he has to earn his NIL money.
Caden Russo Transfer Fit (19:21–23:52)
Russo leaving Alabama for Ohio State now looks like a great career move. At Alabama he was moved to off-ball LB and rarely rushed. Patricia is using him as a stand-up edge from the LB position. Undersized (6-2) but explosive.
Hosts like the role. Depth at DE (Bo Atkinson leap, Kenyatta, Quinn, Allegro) will limit snaps (maybe 10–12 this year). Comparison to Micah Parsons size/role. Good decision because they had a plan before he arrived.
Impact Freshmen (23:53–31:40)
Chris Henry Jr.: Report that he won’t play as much as hoped. Both hosts reject it. They expect him to start by the Texas game or at least rotate heavily with JJ and McEwen. Room isn’t deep with proven veterans. NIL/portal risk if he sits.

Jay Timmons again: Biggest potential impact if he starts at nickel Week 1.

Sincere Johnson (247 mention as contributor): Both don’t buy it. Too much depth (Riley Pettijohn, Alford, Stover). Pettijohn looking better and could start by Texas.

Legend Bay recap: Expect a 50-yard TD vs. Ball State as a “welcome to the league” moment. Compared to Tyreek Hill in the offseason — they have to give him touches.
Senior Day Moved to Ball State Opener (31:41–36:00)
Ohio State moved Senior Day to the season opener vs. Ball State to remove distractions from a bigger later game (implied Michigan).
Denzel actually likes it — gives walk-on/unheralded seniors playing time in a blowout and lets them enjoy the Michigan game later without extra emotion. Brad doesn’t care about Senior Day in general (overhyped) but understands the reasoning. Whittingham comments about the Michigan game added extra heat.
Closing AP Notes & Texas Talk (36:01–end)
First year no SEC team received a first-place vote (not even Georgia). Big Ten getting more respect. Happy Texas got none.
Extended Texas rant: Overrated, expensive roster that underachieves. If they lose to Ohio State again (especially at home), it could be a Penn State 2.0 situation — one make-or-break game that breaks the season. Arch Manning has every advantage (line, WRs, run game, two years sitting) so a bad year would have no excuses. Hosts don’t want him to have a good year because the Heisman is political and he’d win it with a B+ season.
Brad’s Heisman pick: Julian Sayin (“San”). Accurate, has Jeremiah Smith, and the defense may force more scoring. Hard to bet Ohio State QBs because votes get split.
Next week: Ball State preview. Brad may come up for the Nov. 14 Northwestern game.
Sign-off: Smash like, subscribe, drop predicted Ball State score in comments.

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44 min
August 14FALL CAMP UPDATE / Ohio State Buckeyes LIVE 382
Ohio State Buckeyes LIVE 382 – Fall Camp Update Voice of College Football | Hosted by Mark Rogers Guests: Steve Helwagen (Bucknuts / 247Sports) & Tony Gerdeman (Buckeye Insiders / Buckeye Weekly) Presented by FanDuel
Show Open & Practice Access
0:01–1:00: Weekly Buckeyes discussion. Guests introduced. Presented by FanDuel. Note on Ball State spread (around 6.5 earlier in show; later confirmed 50.5).

1:00–1:18: Steve and Tony attended portions of practice Thursday–Saturday (helmets/jerseys Thu/Fri; full pads Saturday with hitting and scrimmaging).
Overall Team Assessment
1:18–2:40 (Steve): Overriding takeaway — very talented and deep roster with few deficiencies. Explains preseason No. 1 ranking. Strong blend of veterans + an inordinate number of first- and second-year players ready to contribute. Team looks the part and has high potential.

2:40–3:35: Emphasis on young talent making immediate impact.
Wide Receivers – Standouts & Depth Questions
2:40–4:12: Brock Boyd (freshman WR from Texas) looks like a junior/senior — catches third-down balls, moves chains. Tony notes rankings (ESPN ~99, 247 ~123, Rivals ~53) and that he lost black stripe in spring (third-fastest Buckeye ever). Made impressive contested catches (e.g., corner route over Devin Sanchez).

4:12–4:51: Devin Mchan most impressive Friday — contested catches, touchdowns, chain-movers, blocking. Answered questions about stepping up to OSU level and contested-catch ability (Carnell Tate-like).

23:31–28:39: Brandon Inniss discussion. Secure in rotation of primary receivers? Kyle Parker still limited (banged up). Top four veterans expected; movement between X/Z/slot (Jeremiah Smith, Chris Henry Jr., Boyd, Mchan, Ja’Quon Gilford all seeing slot work) to avoid pigeonholing. Inniss averaged ~7.5 YPC last year in thin group; focus on YAC and earlier targets in progression. Historical context: current group has most questions in years but still likely top-tier nationally thanks to Jeremiah Smith. Chris Henry Jr. highlighted (seam TD ~40 yards from Sayin).

30:37–31:41: More on Henry Jr. and Smith big-play ability in practice (Smith square-in/skinny post for ~40-yard TD). Group will be fine; Cortez Hankton expected to get playmakers on field.

34:31–36:02: Side discussion on ranking all-time OSU WRs (formula vs. opinion; one-year stars like JSN, Terry Glenn hard to place; Carnell Tate highest-drafted but no 1,000-yard season).
Secondary / Freshmen Making Noise
4:51–5:24: Jaylen Timmons (freshman DB) running with the ones at nickel all weekend; lost black stripe after ~5–6 fall camp practices. Strong indication he could be the primary nickel unless Germaine Matthews is preferred.
Offensive Line Rotation Notes
5:24–6:00: First-day ones: Ian Moore LT, Austin Siereveld RG. Next day: Siereveld back at LT, Josh Padilla RG. Constant movement; hard to track. Tony’s detailed notes on Buckeye Insiders message board.

49:33–50:52: Day wants OL settled by end of this week. Consensus lean: Ian Moore LT, Sierevelt RG, Philip Daniels RT, Carson Hinzman C, Josh Montgomery LG. Rare to move a successful LT (Siereveld was excellent last year) but may create best five.
Defensive Front & Pressure Concerns
8:18–11:55: Questions exist at nearly every position (except maybe QB). OSU replaced 7–8 defensive starters. First-team offense vs. first-team defense: Julian Sayin not under much duress. Edge rotation: Kenyatta Jackson & Beau Atkinson (ex-UNC) with ones; Caden “Quay” Rousaw with twos (most dynamic?). Zion Grady and Ephesians “Epi” Satan also in mix. Best pressure often via blitzes (Riley Pettijohn, Devin Sanchez, Jaylen Timmons nickel blitzes). Matt Patricia wrinkle possible, but blitzes thin coverage.
Running Back Competition
14:20–16:52: Isaiah West running No. 1 at times; Bo Jackson right behind. Neither practiced in spring (shoulder). West may have returned earlier and impressed more in summer. Both getting first-team work; Carlos Lockhart will sort carries/packages over coming weeks. Legend Bay also in mix.

17:02–22:38: Legend Bay (freshman) missed first two days (team-rules violation — possibly social media; never detailed). Returned Day 3 and immediately repped with 1s/2s. Electric with ball in hands — vision, lateral shiftiness, gets very low (5-10 frame) so tacklers fly over. One spin move against veteran DB drew coaching point from Lockhart (“plant your foot and get upfield”). Reminds program people of Jahmyr Gibbs. Goal of 6–8 touches per game discussed. Still learning not to dance vs. Big Ten talent.
Quarterback Depth
36:52–47:56: Tavian St. Clair has NFL body/arm and threw well in spring game, but consistency (chain-moving) has been hit-or-miss behind second-team OL and receivers. Luke Fahy (listed 5-11, probably 5-10) highly impressive with 3s — completes passes, moves chains, understands offense, rolls out and runs. Height not an issue on the throws seen. Comparison to Troy Smith early-career traits raised. St. Clair still the clear backup; Fahy has upside but OSU historically prefers prototypical size (portal option always exists). 2027 Brady Edmunds and 2028 five-star Christopher Vargas already committed — program stockpiling. Transfer portal realities discussed; OSU experience valuable even if player later leaves.
Recruiting Tidbits
36:15–37:01: Four-star LB Brandon Feister (Massillon, WA — note: transcript says Massyn/Masslin Washington) announces Aug. 14; reported lean to Oregon despite OSU interest. Also recent commit Quinton Cipher (LB) and five-star 2028 QB Christopher Vargas.
Ball State Preview / Betting Context
13:01–14:11: FanDuel has Ball State +50.5. Expect vanilla game plans (protect Texas week-2 info). Second-/third-stringers may play hungry and run up score.
Closing Notes & Upcoming
12:10–13:01: Practice count ~6 of ~27 before Sept. 5 opener. More player interviews Thursday; Ryan Day media availability after ~10 practices Saturday (possible scrimmage feedback).

48:19–49:33: Captains/black-stripe ceremony still a couple weeks out (typically ~2 weeks before opener). OL decisions expected soon.

50:52–53:39: Content plugs — Tony’s Arthur Smith interview, Earl Little feature, Buckeye Weekly episodes on unanswered defensive questions + upcoming WR-trio discussion. Steve continuing daily Bucknuts coverage. Show wraps; next Buckeyes Live next Wednesday.
Key Themes: Extreme talent + depth across roster, especially young players (Boyd, Mchan, Timmons, Bay, Henry Jr., Fahy). Legitimate questions remain on defensive front-seven production, WR production beyond Jeremiah Smith, and OL settling. Coaches still evaluating packages and order; more clarity expected after 10 practices and Day’s Saturday update. Team looks the part of a true national-title contender.

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54 min
August 12TTUN Downplaying 'The Game' & Camp Talk! / Ohio State Primetime 97 Presented By FanDuel
Ohio State Primetime 97 – Presented by FanDuel Host: Garrison Gaddy Episode Focus: TTUN (Michigan) downplaying “The Game,” Julian Sayin camp updates, depth chart talk, and Garrison’s projected starters for 2026
Opening / Housekeeping (00:00–02:10)
Welcome to Ohio State Primetime Live. Riley not present (possible weather issues).

Safety message for Ohio/upper Midwest/Chicago-area listeners dealing with severe weather and power outages.

Promos: like/share/subscribe, vocfb.com (writers + schedule), shop (koozies, sweatshirts, hats, hoodies).
TTUN Downplaying “The Game” (02:10–16:10)
Garrison opens by noting he usually avoids talking Michigan, but comments that directly involve the Buckeyes force the conversation.
Kyle Whittingham (Big Ten Media Days)
Said he doesn’t hate Ohio State. Walked it back with (paraphrased) “Is hate going to help us win the game?”

Garrison’s take: Doesn’t expect Whittingham to hate OSU and doesn’t fault the honesty. Still, first-year Michigan coaches need to “say the right things.” The rivalry has expectations. Hate can be fuel in certain games.
Bryce Underwood quote
“It’s just another game… just with guys in different color. That’s how I see it.”

Direct contrast to Underwood’s previous year’s banter (including with LeBron) and the blowout loss.

Michigan fans defending it “like clockwork.” Some claim “no room for hate in college football.” Garrison strongly disagrees—rivalries are built on it.
Julian Sayin contrast (clip played)
Asked if he ever accidentally said the “M-word.”

“You learn very quickly… You learn the history of that game… It becomes your livelihood.”

Not “just another game.”
Garrison personal story: 2024 Ohio State–Michigan game day. Family set Thanksgiving table in scarlet and gray early, expecting a win. After the loss the table went silent. Dad (OSU grad) dropped his utensils and asked how they lost. Garrison left to the basement pissed.
Also references Kyle McCord’s “just another game” comment → portal shortly after. Fan base roasted McCord; Michigan fans cape for Underwood.
Bottom line: OSU will give Whittingham and Underwood reasons to hate them (103k+ yelling, getting tossed around). Other rivalries (Alabama–Auburn, Texas–Oklahoma) never diminish their game no matter the records.
Camp Talk – Julian Sayin (16:10–19:30)
Up to 215 lbs (was ~200–205 last year). Visible gains in neck, thighs, arms.

Mind/body/soul approach. Physicality of the sport requires preparation for runs and hits.

Emphasis from Ryan Day and Sayin himself on running the ball more. Actions match words.

Proud of the work. Fans have asked for this; he’s answering.
Chat comment (Daniel): Biggest issue is missing open receivers. Garrison agrees—needs cleaner accuracy on open targets, better timing over the middle and on deep balls (example: Indiana throw that was late). Arm strength less of an issue than late throws.
Jacoby Jackson (Florida transfer RB) (19:30–24:20)
Seventh-year player.

2024: 95 carries, 509 yards, 5.4 YPC, 7 TDs.

2025: limited by injury (27 carries, 98 yards).

Spring game showed jump cuts and physicality at 220 lbs. Room is full of ~220-lb backs (Isaiah West 218, Bo Jackson 217).

Projection: Not RB1 or RB2, but valuable short-yardage/goal-line/change-of-pace piece and “next man up.” Staff believes in him.
Jay Timmons (True Freshman CB) (24:20–28:40)
Blue-chip corner turning heads with players and coaches.

Secondary versatility and depth highlighted:
Jermaine Matthews (can play outside or nickel)

Terry Moore (safety/nickel, former All-American type)

Earl Little Jr., Jalen McClain (free safety), etc.

McClain said the staff expects Timmons to make plays.

Comparison to McClain’s own true-freshman trajectory.

Chat: “I’d be shocked if Timmons isn’t a starter.” Garrison not fully there yet but sees a strong chance he contributes heavily or starts. Depth remains excellent either way.
Projected Starters – Offense (29:20–42:00)
QB
Julian Sayin (locked)
WR
X: Jeremiah Smith

Boundary: Devin McCuin (UTSA transfer) – 4.3 speed, route runner, YAC, can play inside/out. High expectations with Smith drawing attention.

Slot: Hedge between Brandon Inniss (two-time captain, leader, program guy, room to grow after first-year starter role) and Kyle Parker (LSU transfer, explosive YAC/tackle-breaker).

Also in mix: Brock Boyd (inside/out), McCuin and Smith can slide inside.
OL
LT: Austin Siereveld

LG: Luke Montgomery

C: Carson Hinzman

RG: Josh Padilla (or ideally Siereveld if Moore slides)

RT: Phillip Daniels (Minnesota transfer)

Ideal best-five preference (shared by many): Move Siereveld to RG and put Ian Moore at LT if Moore is equal or better. That unit would be elite. Currently Daniels vs. Moore competition at RT. Art Smith + Tyler Bowen coaching expected to develop the group.
RB
RB1: Bo Jackson (proven, highest-paid RB, second-team All-Big Ten as true freshman).

Isaiah West getting heavy first-team reps (good for development; doesn’t automatically mean he’s the clear #1).

Jacoby Jackson will see situational work. Room navigated by committee similar to 2025 under Carlos Lockett.
TE
Nate Roberts (most valuable right now – size + hands).

Strong veteran room: Hunter Welcing (Northwestern grad transfer, top-100 portal), Mason Williams (Ohio U), Christian Bennett. Heavy rotation expected; all big blockers.
Projected Starters – Defense (42:00–53:00)
DL
DE: Kenyatta Jackson Jr. (star potential; first-year starter last year who was excellent vs. run and saw more pass-rush late).

DE: Beau Atkinson (North Carolina transfer) currently taking first-team reps. Body composition improved (legs especially). Larry Johnson development expected.

Rotation likely includes Epi, Zion, Quay Russo (edge/LB hybrid).

DT: Edric Houston (healthy, finally over 300 lbs) and James Smith (UCF/Alabama transfer).

John Walker III heavy short-yardage/goal-line.
LB
Peyton Pierce

Christian Alliegro (the one-armed destroyer vs. OSU tape still holds; now with two hands under James Laurinaitis)

Riley Pettijohn and T.J. Alford expected to rotate heavily.
Secondary
Boundary CB: Davison Igbinosun

Other CB: Dominic Kelly (Georgia transfer, 6-2)

Nickel: Jermaine Matthews

Safeties: Jalen McClain + Earl Little Jr.

Jay Timmons and Terry Moore will play a lot; true-freshman starter possible for Timmons. McClain called best returning defensive player by some.
Close (53:00–end)
Recap of projected defense.

Promo for Friday call-in show (7 p.m. ET).

Membership tiers mentioned.

Sign-off: O-H-I-O.

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54 min
August 11Ohio State Football Fall Camp Position Updates/ Chris Vargas Horseshoe Hangover Live 9
Horseshoe Hangover Live 9 – Ohio State Fall Camp Position Updates + Chris Vargas Hosts: Brad Thomas & Denzel Jones OhioStateVOCFB / Horseshoe Hangover presented by FanDuel Sportsbook Date referenced: August 10 (weeks before the season)
Episode Overview
Brad and Denzel break down early fall camp observations (Denzel attended in person), key position battles, standout performers, proven vs. unproven groups, breakout candidates/sleepers, the Chris Vargas commitment, early 2028 recruiting notes, and returner discussion. Strong emphasis on defensive line and secondary questions, wide receiver depth, and running back competition.
Key Timestamps & Notes
0:00–1:30 | Intro & Weekend Recaps
Brad opens the show. Denzel attended fall camp (ticket ~$50) and watched Buckeyes practice; highly recommends it.

Brad spent the weekend doing team breakdowns to prepare for the season (including his Monday show).

Both in strong football mode heading into the final weeks before kickoff.
1:30–4:00 | Biggest Camp Takeaways – Defensive Line
Bo Atkinson is the biggest positive surprise. Denzel had “given up” on him and expected Zion Grady to take the second edge spot. Atkinson looked fast, physical, twitchy, with good bend and stronger legs. Taking first-team snaps.

Kenyatta Jackson Jr. looks ready to be “the man” — walking around with star swagger while still working.

Defensive tackle: Walker looked like the starter at nose. Edgar Houston expected to take the other spot with a rotation involving Will Smith Jr. and others. Top three projected: Edrick Houston, Will Smith Jr., Walker.

Smith (jumped from ~295 to ~315) needs time to get used to the added size; looked more proportionate in person than some photos suggested.
4:00–6:30 | Linebacker Notes + Running Back Competition
C.J. Pettyjohn (high Texas recruit) looks good but is not yet with the first team after missing spring. Still high on him long-term; expected to force his way in.

Bo Jackson still expected to lead the backfield (~60/40 split favored), but Isaiah West looked “amazing.” Put on size (rumored ~15 lbs) while keeping quickness and elusiveness. Looks like a true starting-caliber back. Top three backs all around 220.

No new intel on Legend Bay’s earlier team-rules absence (sat two practices, then returned to first-team work). Kept close to the vest.
6:30–9:00 | QB & Tight End
Tame / St. Clair (likely referring to the QB room / Julian Sayin context in later discussion): Big frame (6-5/6-6), added some weight, nice throws. Still projected to hand the ball off a lot.

Tight end room quiet in the practices observed — mostly blocking. Nate Roberts expected to start.
9:00–13:30 | Wide Receiver Battle – Biggest Buzz
Devin McEwen (UTSA transfer) is the clear standout / dark horse. Looked electric in practice (Brad attended the day he was popping off). Explosive after the catch, great in the flats/bubble screens. Projected for 800+ yards and packages designed for him. Brad plans to bet overs early.

Not giving up on Brandon Ennis (still sees ~6 TDs and solid first-down work), but McEwen currently has more “juice.”

Brock Boyd getting a lot of coaching attention (positive reviews from others at camp as well — “guy of the future”).

Room feels deeper than last year. Beyond Jeremiah Smith, multiple viable options (McEwen, Ennis, Chris Henry Jr., Boyd, Guilford, etc.). Defenses won’t know who’s getting the ball.
13:30–16:30 | Secondary
Devin Sanchez has clear alpha/star energy and presence — not cocky, just knows who he is. Expected to elevate the group.

Dom Kelly getting heavy first-team looks opposite him. Young (reclassified) and on the verge of becoming a star.

Safety: Earl Little looks locked in and unlikely to come off the field. Terry Moore solid but may be squeezed. Nickel battle between Jermaine Matthews and Jay Timmons.

Overall DB room has talent; more “unproven” than bad. Sanchez is the needed alpha.
16:30–20:00 | More DL Rotation + Jeremiah Smith / Julian Sayin
Further affirmation of the DT rotation and need for players to get back into true football shape after adding mass.

Jeremiah Smith looks awesome — more cut up, crisp route running. Ran a nasty route against Sanchez. Ready to “rock and roll” and silence any nitpicking.

Julian Sayin gained 10–15 lbs, looks thicker and more confident. Brad excited for the short-yardage/first-down production.
20:00–22:00 | Chris Vargas Commitment
5-star / No. 1 overall QB (class of 2028 discussion context) commits to Ohio State.

Excellent size (6-4/6-5), great mechanics and ball placement for a sophomore, serious zip. Reminds both of C.J. Stroud (with potentially more velocity at this stage). Currently ~190 lbs; room to add 10–25 lbs and grow into a prototype frame. Strong early win.
22:00–25:30 | Proven vs. Unproven Positions
Most proven: Quarterback (returning production/efficiency). Wide receiver also discussed (Jeremiah Smith locked in; McEwen film rewatch highly encouraging), though some caution that McEwen is still a G5-to-Big Ten jump.

Most unproven: Defensive line (talent everywhere, competition for snaps opposite Kenyatta, DT spots still settling) and linebacker (talent-rich room — Peyton Pierce, Allegretti, Pettyjohn, Alford, Stover, Sincere Johnson, etc. — but limited proven high-snap production as Buckeyes). Stover gets positive notes (size + top-end speed).
25:30–30:00 | Breakouts / Sleepers
Offense breakout: Devin McEwen (clear consensus).

Sleeper: Isaiah West (could push toward closer to 50/50 or at least heavy 1A/1B usage). Kyle Parker also floated as a deeper sleeper. Chris Henry Jr. quieter than expected so far but had some nice catches.

Discussion on how Ryan Day might split carries late in games when leading (West vs. getting Legend Bay/Jacoby Jackson looks).
30:00–33:00 | Defensive Sleepers
Earl Little — trajectory from Alabama/Florida State path; flashes were there, consistency expected now in a better system. Potential late first/early second-round type if he stays consistent.

Jermaine Matthews — still believed in for a strong year (outside or nickel). Had big moments last year (Texas) mixed with inconsistency; motivated by outside noise.
33:00–37:30 | Kick Returner Discussion
Preference for upside over pure “safety-first.”

McEwen too valuable as WR2 to risk.

Expectation that Ryan Day will lean safe (likely Brandon Ennis).

Would like to see Legend Bay or Kyle Parker get chances for explosiveness. Frustration with the long-standing Day preference for sure-handed, low-risk returners.
37:30–43:00 | 2028 Recruiting Class Notes
Looking strong / potential No. 1 class territory if current leads hold.

Newman Hall (IMG running back, near Denzel) — physical stud, currently four-star but viewed as future five-star. Big, physical sophomore; hope he stays in the 220 range.

Jet Harrison (QB) — fluid, big; top-two QB talent.

Jameer Weiss and Larry Johnson’s recent defensive line haul praised (multiple five-stars).

Braylon Clark (big WR out of North Carolina) — strong lead.

Kavon Blackman (6-6, 270, four-star OL/DL from Springfield area) — high percentage lean.

Heavy blue-chip class expected. Success on the field this fall (deep playoff run) would further boost it. Wide receiver room already deep and will continue reloading.
43:00–end | Brandon Ennis Future + Close
Discussion on Ennis’s long-term fit. McEwen’s emergence is not ideal for his target share. Fifth year or transfer (possibly following Brian Hartline) both on the table depending on 2026 production. Path to being “the guy” at Ohio State is difficult with the talent ahead/behind him.

Strong episode interaction noted. Tease for future week-one expectation talks.

Standard close: rate, like, subscribe.
Quick Position Battle Snapshot (Camp Observation Consensus)
Edge: Kenyatta Jackson Jr. locked; Bo Atkinson rising fast for the other spot.

DT: Walker + Edrick Houston / Will Smith Jr. rotation.

RB: Bo Jackson still the lead, Isaiah West closing the gap impressively.

WR: Jeremiah Smith + Devin McEwen as the clear early 1-2; Ennis, Boyd, Henry in the mix.

Secondary: Sanchez + Dom Kelly outside; Earl Little + McClain at safety; Matthews/Timmons at nickel.

Overall vibe: Talent everywhere. A few “step-up” spots remain, but the room is competitive and physical.

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47 min
August 10Isaiah West Makes Noise & Devin Sanchez Is Primed! / Ohio State Call-in Show 79 Presented By FanDuel
Ohio State Call-in Show 79 – “Isaiah West Makes Noise & Devin Sanchez Is Primed!” Presented by FanDuel | Hosts: Garrison Gaddy & Denzel Jones | OhioStateVOCFB
00:00 – Intro Welcome to the Ohio State College Show on a Sunday. Call-in format. Plug for vocfb.com (writers/schedule) and the shop (koozies, hoodies, hats, etc.). First week of fall practice discussion.
00:24 – 2028 QB Commitment: Vargas
Massachusetts QB, consensus No. 1 in the 2028 class.

Frequent CJ Stroud comps on ball placement/touch; not quite the same athlete.

Denzel: Ball placement and soft touch stand out versus typical high-school QBs who throw everything too hard. Sets the room up well long-term with Brady Edmonds and St. Clair.

Garrison: Pocket passer who still shows some pocket navigation. Sophomore with plenty of physical/technical growth left. Don’t write Edmonds off yet — depth is valuable at Ohio State.
04:00 – Broader 2028 Class Look
Already strong: five-star DL Jameer Weiss, No. 3 RB Elijah Newman Hall (Bradenton, FL → IMG, already ~220 lbs as a sophomore and still filling out).

Jet Harrison (Marvin Harrison Sr. legacy / MHJ brother).

Realistic path to 5–6 five-stars. IMG “bump” is real; Garrison notes mixed history with IMG products but likes Newman Hall’s skill set for the position.
07:10 – Running Back Room / Isaiah West First-Team Reps
Isaiah West, Jacoby Jackson, and Legend Bay took first-team reps early in Week 1 of fall camp; Bo Jackson did not. Generated noise (including from rival fans).

Consensus: Don’t overreact.
Denzel expects Bo to start with roughly a 60/40 split favoring Bo; they simply want to evaluate West and the newcomers. Both West and Bo are coming off injuries; Ryan Day keeps details close.

Legend Bay’s early first-team work was a mild surprise (missed first two practices; late flight).

Garrison’s take: Bo already proved himself (2nd-team All-Big Ten as a true freshman). West only had 44 carries last year and needs the reps with the OL. Same logic applies to Jacoby Jackson (portal, injury history at Florida). Expect a three-man primary group (Bo, West, Jacoby) with Legend used situationally. Goal is keeping the room healthy for a long Big Ten/playoff run.

Roster weights essentially even (~218–220). Physical backfield + returning OL + Arthur Smith’s emphasis (“non-negotiable is our style of play… starts up front”) points to a more physical, stronger short-yardage attack. Carlos Locklear’s arrival already helped; Smith (former OL) should push it further.
13:20 – Julian Sayin Physical Development
Noticeably bigger (neck, face, overall frame). Worked with Coach Mick and Jeremiah Smith in the spring (same approach used previously with Max Clare).

Expected to contribute more with his legs (read-option, short-yardage) after rarely gaining yards on designed runs or scrambles last year. Should also help deep-ball strength.
15:40 – Wide Receiver Room & Devin McEwen
Garrison had been high on McEwen for months (proven production at UTSA, 4.3 speed, can play inside/outside). Practice buzz confirms he’s firmly in the WR2 conversation.

Denzel agrees — film shows excellent route-running and YAC; looks better after the catch than anything Ohio State had last year.

Room described as an embarrassment of riches / deeper than 2024 even if it lacks a pure Carnell Tate-level star at the top right now: JJ, McEwen, Chris Henry/Brandon Ennis, Kyle Parker, Guilford, Brock Boyd, second-year guys popping.

Ryan Day’s best offenses have thrived with three strong receivers who can all create after the catch (2019 cited as peak example). Cortez Haynes coaching + Day’s WR background should help.
19:50 – Defensive Line / Bo Atkinson Turnaround
Atkinson (redshirt senior, former UNC) taking first-team reps opposite Kenyatta Jackson.

Early skepticism from fans and even Denzel has flipped. Clips show better first step, hand usage, burst, and push. Kenyatta Jackson publicly praised the offseason work (flexibility, extra post-practice work).

Garrison: Learning curve + physical development (legs/strength) under Larry Johnson makes the jump believable. Room still has Zion Grady and Epi Sanatelli, but Atkinson has earned the opportunity.

Interior: High expectations for James Smith (returning home, family Buckeye roots, “baptized in the Olentangy”). Edrick Houston finally over 300 lbs and making noise; John Walker III also in the mix. Projection: Houston + Walker starting with Smith rotating heavily. Depth includes Will Smith Jr. and the massive Jason Moore (6-6/6-7, 315–320). Both seniors need to show consistency or risk transferring.
30:00 – Linebackers / Riley Pettyjohn
Question from chat: When does Pettyjohn break out?
Denzel: Illinois.

Garrison: Texas (Week 2). High on his complete skill set (coverage + filling holes). Missed spring, so still catching up, but expected to push for significant snaps.

Starters currently look like Christian Allegro + Peyton Pierce. Allegro more trusted (especially edge/rush). Pierce physical vs. the run but coverage questions remain. Heavier rotation expected than last year with T.J. Alford and the young athletes behind them. “Hard-headed boys” who will knock helmets off.
34:40 – Secondary & Earl Little Jr.
Ryan Day credited Caleb Downs as the catalyst for landing James Smith, Cree Russo, and Earl Little Jr.

Early camp feedback: Earl Little likely takes the free safety spot (over Leroy Roker projection).

Jermaine Matthews expected to move inside (nickel); Dom Kelly outside. Terry Moore likely rotational only.

Non-negotiables: Devin Sanchez and Jalen McClain never leave the field. Earl Little also sounding locked in. Rotation questions mainly at the other corner and nickel (Jay Timmons, Matthews flexibility).
39:00 – Devin Sanchez Hype
Garrison extremely high: Locked-in demeanor, studies the schedule (Cam Coleman, Oregon receivers, etc.), carries the legacy of past Ohio State corners (Michael Jenkins, Malcolm Jenkins, Chris Gamble, Denzel Ward).

Compares him to Will Johnson but more athletic. Not ready to crown him All-American/Thorpe contender yet, but expects elite play. If he locks down Cam Coleman in Week 2, the narratives will get loud.

Denzel loves the confident-but-professional energy (similar to past talkative corners who produced).
43:50 – Quick Offensive Line Notes
Austin still at left tackle. Ian Moore splitting first-team reps with Phillip Daniels. Daniels’ athletic profile may fit better at guard long-term. Overall, unit viewed as one of the best in the country and a Joe Moore Award finalist candidate at minimum (three top-20 caliber linemen).
45:20 – More Running Back Discussion (Connection Issues Momentarily)
If West ultimately starts or takes more snaps than Bo, it simply means West took the jump — not that Bo regressed. Carries will still be split; neither is likely to see 20+ carries regularly.

Legend Bay projected ~2–3 touches per game (mix of runs, jet sweeps, screens, possible Wildcat/pass). Already bulked up (~195). Miniature Braxton Miller vibe.
52:30 – Close FanDuel plug. Thanks for watching; have a great day.
Key Themes / Takeaways
Early fall camp noise (West first-team reps, Atkinson jump, McEwen surge, Sanchez confidence) is real but mostly positive and not cause for alarm.

Running back room deeper and more physical than expected.

Defensive line and secondary both have multiple players with something to prove and legitimate upside.

2028 class already looking loaded at premium positions.

Overall vibe from Garrison and Denzel: measured optimism across the roster heading into the second week of camp.

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53 min
August 06#1 GOES TO FALL CAMP / Ohio State Buckeyes LIVE 381
#1 GOES TO FALL CAMP / Ohio State Buckeyes LIVE 381 Voice of College Football host Mark Rogers with Bucknuts247 Senior Editor Steve Helwagen and Buckeye Weekly / Buckeye Insiders host Tony Gerdeman OhioStateVOCFB
Intro & Coaches Poll (00:00–~05:00)
Welcome to Buckeyes Live (Wednesdays, 4 p.m. ET). Ohio State opens fall practice ahead of Week 1 vs. Ball State (not Texas). Sponsored mentions: Steve Helwagen (Bucknuts / 247Sports), Tony Gerdeman (Buckeye Insiders + Buckeye Weekly podcast).

Ohio State is No. 1 in the preseason coaches poll — first time since 2015. Buckeyes have received at least one first-place vote in most years since then (exceptions roughly 2016, 2019, 2021).

Indiana received the second-most first-place votes but sits at No. 6, showing high variance in voter ranking.

Steve: Could put 6–10 teams in a hat and make a case for several as No. 1. Magazines split (Phil Steele on Notre Dame; others on Ohio State, Indiana, Oregon). Strong Big Ten presence; USC at 14 could be a sleeper. Home game vs. Ohio State could be tough for the Buckeyes.

Historical note: Last year five of the preseason top 10 missed the playoff (including Texas No. 1 and Penn State No. 2). Typical churn: ~4 of the top 10 drop out; some finish unranked.
Playoff Math, Contenders & Sleepers (~05:00–~14:00)
Tony cites historical playoff-era patterns (preseason rankings → 12-team field): roughly 4 of top 5 make it, 2 from 6–10, 2 from 11–20, 1 from 21–25, plus ~3 unranked (often including a Group of 5).

Top-7 consensus national-title contenders align with the poll. Growing interest in Oklahoma (defense + healthy John Mateer). Outside the top 10: Old Miss, LSU, USC as more realistic contenders; Alabama (Kalen DeBoer, Ryan Grubb return, two QBs, elite defense potential) also mentioned. Clemson and some others less trusted.

Steve sleepers: USC (too low at 14), Michigan (16) with a “competent” coach after 9-3 regular season last year (losses to Oklahoma, USC, Ohio State). Penn State under Matt Campbell (brought Rocco Becht and Iowa State pieces — “Air Nittany Lion?”). Washington with QB back. Tennessee quieter.

Unranked or fringe names that could climb: Louisville (bandwagon), possible Group of 5 (UNLV?), Oklahoma State (North Texas offense in a softer Big 12), James Franklin at Virginia Tech. Phil Steele had Navy in his top 25.

Caveats on culture/finishing: skepticism on perennial underperformers (A&M, LSU under new management, recent Clemson). Penn State schedule is soft — may get in with two losses but lack quality wins.

AP poll expected ~Aug. 17. Roughly 15 of the current top 25 projected to finish ranked.
Kyle Whittingham & the Rivalry (~14:00–~24:00)
Discussion of Whittingham’s comments after being asked if he has learned to “hate” Ohio State: “Hate’s a strong word.” Immediate backlash from both fan bases (OSU fans celebrating the optics; Michigan fans concerned — “biggest sign of not going to make it,” “he’s not ready,” “Big Ten school hires West Coast coach with zero clue”).

Context: Respectful coaching history (Woody/Bo close; Tressel/Carr; Meyer/Hoke barbecue) until Harbaugh era (refusal to answer respect questions). Sherrone Moore showed little respect. Whittingham seen as the “grown-up” who can dial back manufactured hate while still competing.

Authenticity praised: Typical new coaches immediately role-play full rivalry fervor at introductory pressers (“pig sooie,” etc.). Whittingham has been consistent (even at intro, somewhat shrugged it off and praised Urban Meyer). High-road approach admired, though some prefer redirecting to “we were hired to win championships, which means beating Ohio State.”

Michigan outlook: Program insulated from athletic-department noise; cleaned house. Talent is there (Bryce Underwood + strong running game; Whittingham trusts OC to get the most out of Underwood). Path: Win home opener vs. Oklahoma (Week 2), go ~7-2 in Big Ten → likely 10-2 and playoff. Last year’s failure to take the next step noted. Lose once to OSU while contending and the message will land quickly.

Side notes: Urban Meyer/Fox access questions around rivalry week; reciprocal with Charles Woodson/Desmond Howard.
Fall Camp Coverage & Position Focus (~24:00–~35:00+)
Tony (Buckeye Insiders): Community growing; daily content on recruiting/football. Working camp-preview piece (camp starts tomorrow). New summer podcast Time and Change (past/present/future of OSU via one topic) — current episode on Michigan rivalry + Wolverine/Buckeye killers. Buckeye Weekly drops tomorrow on freshmen projected for 100+ snaps (Zion Grady ~106 last year as example of solid contributor).

Steve (Bucknuts): On site early the next three days (helmets/jerseys/shorts or light pads; acclimatization period). Fans can buy tickets (500–1,000+ expected). Video + Ryan Day interview + player availability. Heavy lifting once pads come on.

Key early-camp storylines Steve is tracking:
Running backs: Day highlighted the room. Healthy group expected (Bo Jackson, Isaiah West, Jacoby Jackson transfer, Favar Aki, Legend Bay, Turbo Rogers, Stanley Jackson Jr.). Day referenced J.K. Dobbins path (great freshman year, sophomore dip, elite junior) and wants production now — skip any sophomore slump. Bo Jackson is the fifth true freshman 1,000-yard rusher in OSU history; only Dobbins repeated it among the previous four. Young room after transfers; must stay healthy and produce.

Offensive line: Day wants starting five largely set by practice 9–10. Watch Austin Siereveld (still at LT or moving to guard?), Ian Moore, alignments. Communication and silent-count issues from last year reportedly improved under Arthur Smith. Decision on moving proven LT Siereveld inside for unproven Moore could be season-defining (can still reverse later).

Other watches: Safety alignments (Jalen McClain, Earl Little, Terry Moore, Leroy Roker, etc.); WR rotation and freshman depth (Cortez Hankton more willing to play young guys than Brian Hartline historically).

Julian Sayin discussion: Last year’s late-season pressure issues (Indiana/Miami) more OL than QB (~80/20 or 60/40 split). Need better get-out-of-danger quickness, varied snap counts, and sustained protection. If OL holds up, Sayin projected for big year (Heisman conversation; possible dual OSU presence in New York with Jeremiah Smith). Goal: back to Indy for Big Ten title and deeper playoff run.
Scheduling & Closing (~35:00–end)
Frustration with Big Ten coaches (Matt Rhule example) deflecting non-conference Power scheduling questions to Tony Petitti. Preference for SEC-style rule requiring a Power opponent. Roughly half the league already plays one; credit to lower teams (Purdue/Wisconsin/MSU vs. Notre Dame) and others (OSU-Texas, Michigan-Oklahoma, Iowa-Iowa State, Minnesota-Mississippi State, Illinois-Duke, etc.). USC given a pass for historical aggressiveness; Notre Dame series returning. Iowa’s non-conference schedule called the most boring.

Fun aside: Message-board “one team per year / pick any game” scheduling game; obscure matchups (Minnesota-Mississippi State) can be appealing.

Historical note on limited Big Ten–SEC regular-season history (many meetings only in bowls).

Wrap: Appreciate listeners. Super Chats, likes, questions. Next Buckeyes Live Wednesday 4 p.m. ET. Follow Tony (Buckeye Insiders + podcasts) and Steve (Bucknuts/247). Camp coverage underway; anticipation high after last season’s finish.
Key overall takeaways Ohio State enters fall camp as the clear coaches-poll No. 1 with broad consensus as a title contender, but the room for variance (Indiana first-place votes, multiple realistic challengers, historical top-10 churn) is acknowledged. Early camp focus is health and competition in the backfield + OL decisions. Whittingham’s measured rivalry comments are viewed as authentic high-road authenticity that will be tested quickly by results, especially Week 2 Oklahoma and the November rivalry game. Media presence ramps up immediately with three open practice days.

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45 min
August 05Buckeyes Atop Coaches Poll & Vargas Commitment Date / Ohio State Primetime 96 Presented By FanDuel
Ohio State Primetime 96 – Presented by FanDuel Hosts: Garrison Gaddy & Riley Burnett Episode focus: Buckeyes atop the coaches poll, Christopher Vargas commitment date (Aug. 8), fall camp storylines, and jersey predictions for the 2026 season.
Intro & Housekeeping (0:00–1:12)
Welcome to Ohio State Primetime Live with Garrison and Riley.

Presented by FanDuel.

Standard plugs: like/share/subscribe, vocfb.com, shop (hoodies, sweatshirts, hats, koozies).

Agenda preview: coaches poll, Christopher Vargas (Ohio State vs. Oregon decision), and jersey predictions for every game.
Coaches Poll – Ohio State No. 1 (1:18–12:48)
Ohio State opens No. 1 in the preseason coaches poll with the most first-place votes (38).

Top 5: Ohio State, Oregon, Georgia, Texas, Notre Dame.

6–10: Indiana, Miami, Texas A&M, Oklahoma, Ole Miss (Alabama and Texas Tech also mentioned in the group).

Indiana finished No. 6 but had the second-most first-place votes (14). Hosts noted the discrepancy — coaches either had Indiana very high or much lower.

Riley: Not shocked by Ohio State at No. 1 despite major defensive losses to the NFL. Talent still elite.

Garrison: Personally ranks Oregon’s roster No. 1 in the country, then Texas, with Ohio State a close third. Still not surprised the coaches put Ohio State on top (“it’s Ohio State”).

Other takes:
Notre Dame’s roster is “crazy.”

Would rank Texas A&M and LSU lower.

Would move Michigan ahead of BYU; not high on Penn State.

Liked Washington’s inclusion — playing at Washington late in the year is tough.

Credited coaches for placing Indiana where they did; Garrison would pick Indiana over everyone behind them and sees them as roughly equal to the teams ahead.

Historical note: First time Ohio State has been ranked No. 1 in the preseason coaches poll in school history. Previous high preseason rankings (1998, 2006, 2015) did not end in titles. First Big Ten team to open No. 1 in the coaches poll since Ohio State in 2015.

FanDuel championship odds roughly align (Ohio State 1, Notre Dame 2, Oregon 3, Texas 4, Georgia 5, Indiana 6).

Both prefer waiting for the AP poll. Discussed starting their own weekly poll.
Christopher Vargas Recruitment (13:12–23:31)
No. 1 QB / No. 6 overall prospect in the 2028 class (St. John’s Prep, Danvers, MA). Listed ~6-4/6-5, 175–205 lbs depending on source.

Commitment date: August 8. Decision essentially between Ohio State and Oregon (Alabama also involved).

Ohio State currently holds three Crystal Ball predictions.

Tape impressions:
Excellent ball placement and vision (CJ Stroud comparison from Garrison).

Pocket presence and ability to step up; not a runner.

High football IQ for his age; finds soft spots.

Developmental traits still present (reading defenses under pressure, navigating the pocket). Still has a junior and senior season left.

Riley sees some younger Dak Prescott traits (coverage reading, getting the ball out, willingness to take hits).

Class of 2028 context: Already has Jet Harrison (elite dual-threat QB/WR talent), Jameer Weiss (top edge), Elijah Newman Hall (top RB). Landing Vargas would give the class an early cornerstone and recruiting momentum.

Both stressed nothing is done until December; remain cautiously optimistic.
Fall Camp Opening & Key Storylines (24:18–38:30+)
Public practices at the Woody Hayes Athletic Center Aug. 6–8 ($40, gates 8 a.m., practice ~9 a.m.–noon).

Riley’s primary focus: health and readiness of the running back room (Ryan Day flagged it at Big Ten Media Days).

Garrison’s list:
Defensive line depth and starters — Kenyatta Jackson Jr. locked in; competition across from him (Zion Grady, Epi Senatale, Bo Atkinson, Quay Russo, etc.) and among the DTs (Will Smith Jr., Edgar Custy, James Smith, John Walker).

Front-seven vs. offensive-line matchups in camp.

Young wide receivers — How much will Brock Boyd, Chris Junior, and other freshmen/sophomores play? Blocking is the key filter (“if you can’t block, you don’t get the rock”). Media and teammates are talking about Boyd like he’s different.

Offensive line — Bold take: Ian Moore at left tackle with Austin Saravelo sliding inside could create one of the best interiors in the country (Luke Montgomery, Carson Hinzman, Saravelo). Philip Daniels development also key.

Dominic Kelly — Transfer corner from Georgia. If he starts opposite Devin Sanchez (and Jermaine Mathews Jr. moves to nickel), Ohio State would have two 6-2 boundary corners. Georgia sources were disappointed to lose him; he played significant snaps last year.

Quick side discussion on James Smith’s physical transformation (up to ~315 from Alabama weight) and various preseason watch lists (Outland, Nagurski, Maxwell, etc.).
New Field at Ohio Stadium (43:06–44:17)
Hosts praise the new surface — darker, more textured green. Night-and-day improvement over the previous field that had been criticized for player safety/injuries.
Jersey Predictions for the 2026 Season (44:18–58:15)
Hosts went game-by-game:
Game
Predicted Look
Notes
Ball State (home)
Traditional scarlet/gray
Iconic opener with heritage stripes
at Texas
Traditional white (away)
Garrison wants all-whites; both settle on prediction of standard whites
Kent State (home)
Traditional scarlet/gray
—
Illinois (home)
All-scarlet (or possible all-black)
Rivalry/protected game; yellow bucket
at Iowa
Traditional away
—
Maryland (home)
Traditional
—
at Indiana
All-whites
Big road game, revenge for Big Ten title; “biggest game in Indiana state history” vibe
at USC
Traditional away
History/stadium feel
Oregon (home)
All-blacks
Likely night/late-afternoon game; reciprocal to 2024 Austin matchup
Northwestern (home)
Traditional
—
at Nebraska
Traditional away
—
Michigan (home)
Traditional scarlet/gray (heritage)
Preference for alternates or both teams in traditional home looks, but expect standards. Discussed possible future rule that both teams must wear traditional unis for “The Game.”
General agreement that true alternates (all-black, all-scarlet, all-gray, all-white) will be used sparingly and not repeated.
Closing (58:15–end)
Plugs for other shows (Horseshoe Hangover Mondays, Mark Rogers live Wednesdays, Friday call-in).

Sign-off: O-H-I-O.
Overall tone: Optimistic but measured on the No. 1 ranking and Vargas, excited for fall camp battles (especially OL/DL and young skill talent), and clearly having fun with the jersey exercise. Strong emphasis on the improved field and the physical tools now in the program.

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59 min
August 04Ohio State Football Questions before Fall Camp Horseshoe Hangover Live 8
Horseshoe Hangover Live 8 – Ohio State Football Questions Before Fall Camp Presented by FanDuel Sportsbook | Hosts: Brad Thomas & Denzel Jones | OhioStateVOCFB
Intro & Weekend Check-In
00:00:25 – 00:01:17 Brad and Denzel open the show. Denzel’s weekend was solid but lower energy than usual. Brad was at a bachelor party (casino/pool/beach) and is still recovering, noting how much harder it is to rebound as he gets older (slept until 10:30).
Fall Camp Is Here – Biggest Position Battles
00:01:17 – 00:16:20
Wide Receiver Room (most important battle for Denzel)
Key names fighting for snaps behind Jeremiah Smith: Brandon Inniss, Kyle Parker, Chris Henry Jr., Brock Boyd, Devin McEwen.

Both hosts expect Inniss to start due to seniority/experience, but Parker is right on his heels. Henry is “too good to keep off the field” after his spring game production and will force significant playing time. McEwen also has strong college experience.

Room is deep; the next two spots after Smith are wide open and will be determined by production as the season unfolds.
Defensive Tackle
Big hole to fill. Recent photos of James Smith (up to ~315 lbs) and others look massive (“didn’t even look real”).

Denzel’s projection: Smith and Houston in the middle (Smith likely at nose). Walker rotates in. Good two-deep depth and rotation expected. Houston “has to start” this year.
Defensive End opposite Kenyatta Jackson
Under-the-radar but important battle. Candidates: Zion Grady (looked good in limited snaps last year), Atkinson, Epi (looks huge in recent photos), Kyrie Wilder, Quay Russo.

Denzel wants Grady to start. Russo is explosive but undersized — projected as a situational/pass-rush specialist (10-12 snaps max). Strength in numbers and rotation will be key.
Linebackers
Conventional wisdom slots Arvell Reese (Allegra) and Peyton Pierce as the starters, but both hosts say the spots are far from locked.

Behind them: C.J. Pettijohn (recent “Dude of the Week”), Alford, Stover, Sincere Johnson. Extremely deep room — “embarrassment of riches.” Talent level is so high that underperformance can get someone benched week-to-week. Experience (Reese from Wisconsin) helps, but nothing is secure.
Safety
Debate on Treyveon Moore returning from injury. Brad is higher on Leroy Roker (likes the high-school film and hitting ability). Concerns about Moore’s missed tackles and the difficulty of returning from a long layoff (especially a knee injury) at free safety in a high-level defense. Rotation possible, but starting role not guaranteed. Week 2 comes up fast against quality competition.
Cornerbacks / Secondary
Outside: Dom Kelly and Davison Igbinosun (Sanchez) expected to start. Both long (6-2).

Jermaine Matthews projected to nickel. Earl Little drawing strong reviews (“looks awesome,” loves to hit, potential pro).

Cam Calhoun (Utah transfer) gets a harsh evaluation from Brad — multiple transfers and limited snaps raise questions about production and decision-making.

Jaylen Timmons hyped for next year (or sooner); looks like a pure football player who will get on the field once he absorbs the system.
Other Notes
Offensive line and running back (backup) have milder battles. Isaiah West or Jacoby (looked solid in spring) for RB depth. O-line still searching for someone to take the next step and elevate the group.
Potential Team Leaders / Stars Beyond the Obvious
00:17:35 – 00:20:29 Hosts name players who can lead their position groups and become stars (avoiding the most obvious names like JJ).
Shared: Jalen McClain (experience + strong 2025 season next to Caleb Downs) and Kenyatta Jackson.

Brad adds Brandon Inniss (vocal leader, previous captain).

Discussion of Earl Little and Cam Calhoun as potential locker-room / energy guys even if snaps are limited. Skepticism on Calhoun’s fit and production history.
Indiana Cancels Notre Dame Series – Scheduling & Rivalry Talk
00:20:30 – 00:23:38 Indiana canceling the Notre Dame series (opening the door for Notre Dame-USC renewal) sparks strong opinions.
Frustration with coaches prioritizing playoff safety over big non-conference games and true competition. References to Alabama previously trying to back out of Ohio State and Eli Drinkwitz complaining about Missouri’s schedule.

Preference for tough home/home non-conference games over neutral-site kickoffs (better atmosphere, student sections, lower prices, more juice). Mid-tier ranked matchups (e.g., 15 vs. 18) can be pure playoff eliminators and deliver great early-season drama.
Big Ten Media Days Takeaways
00:23:38 – 00:36:25
Ryan Day & Ohio State
Day appeared relaxed, even-keeled, and confident. Strong belief in Julian Sayin. Emphasis on improving the running game (getting consistent 3–5 yards). Positive comments on the O-line (“number one”) and Earl Little.
Michigan Coach Comment
“Taking the hate out of the game” drew heavy mockery. Both hosts loved it as motivation — “softest crap,” “we’re winning that game.”
Jeremiah Smith Legacy Season
What it would take to cement him further: break the major school/Big Ten receiving records (touchdowns, receptions, yards). Hosts project many of those falling by midseason given his early production. Desire for a Biletnikoff and big performances in the biggest games (no more quiet outings against Texas-level defenses). Specific numbers floated: needs ~1,080 yards for Big Ten all-time lead, plus high reception and TD totals.
Quarterback Landscape / Rankings
On the national VOCFB show, Denzel ranked top QBs: Chambliss, Sayin, Moore, Carr, Mensah. Brad would flip Moore/Chambliss and has Sayin in the 2–3 range.

Broader talk on the depth of the 2026 QB class, Marcel Reed’s need to turn the corner, and the risks of returning for another year (Cardale Jones parallel — ride the wave when hot).
Curt Cignetti
Loved the shot at the SEC. High praise for Cignetti’s presence, experience, and ability to talk. Discussion of the Saban coaching tree’s continued massive influence and the “process over performance” lesson Cignetti absorbed.
Closing – Block O Vote & Season Excitement
00:36:25 – End
Who should get the Block O? Consensus leaning Kenyatta Jackson or Brandon Inniss (experience/leadership). Debate on whether McClain (junior?) is eligible.

Both hosts extremely high on the upcoming season. Brad mentions his new home studio and jersey collection calling to him.

Sign-off: One day closer to college football. Back next week at 7 p.m.
Overall Vibe Casual, fan-driven, deep-dive episode focused almost entirely on Ohio State’s position battles heading into fall camp, with strong secondary discussion of Media Days, scheduling philosophy, and individual player trajectories (especially Smith, Sayin, Jackson, and the secondary depth). High energy and clear excitement for the season.

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39 min

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