Ohio State enters the 2026 college football season ranked No. 3 in Phil Steele’s preseason top-40, trailing only Notre Dame and Georgia. According to Steele’s analysis, the Buckeyes’ national title prospects are bolstered by a high-powered offense featuring quarterback Julian Sayin, running back Bo Jackson, and wide receiver Jeremiah Smith, despite the team losing seven players to the NFL draft for the second consecutive year.
How does Ohio State’s roster compare to national title contenders?
Phil Steele’s rankings place Ohio State behind Notre Dame and Georgia, but ahead of a challenging gauntlet of opponents. The Buckeyes are scheduled to face three teams ranked directly behind them: No. 4 Texas, No. 5 Indiana, and No. 6 Oregon. Steele notes that while Ohio State faces significant turnover on defense—losing seven draft picks, including three selected within the first 11 overall—the program’s ability to reload remains high.
Ohio State’s offensive line returns 91 career starts, providing a veteran anchor for the team’s high-octane skill players.
Why is the Buckeyes’ offense projected to lead the nation?
The core of Ohio State’s offensive identity relies on the combination of Julian Sayin, Bo Jackson, and Jeremiah Smith. According to Steele, the program currently maintains one of the most favorable situations in college football regarding Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) support. This financial landscape has allowed the coaching staff to retain veteran leadership on the offensive line, which is currently viewed as a contender for the Joe Moore Award.
Depth chart stability
Beyond the primary starters, the Buckeyes have cultivated significant depth. At the running back position, Isaiah West, Ja’Kobi Jackson, and Legend Bey are expected to support Bo Jackson. The wide receiver corps remains deep as well, with Brandon Inniss, Chris Henry Jr., Devin McCuin, Kyle Parker, and Brock Boyd filling out the rotation behind Smith.
What is the outlook for the Ohio State defense?
While the defense faces the challenge of replacing seven draft picks, the continuity of the coaching staff is a major factor. The retention of defensive coordinator Matt Patricia for a second season is expected to provide stability. Despite losing high-round draft talent, the program has historically managed roster turnover effectively, as evidenced by the 2024 squad that successfully replaced seven draft picks while still securing a national championship.
When analyzing college football rankings, focus on the “strength of schedule” metrics, as teams like Ohio State must navigate road trips to Texas, Iowa, Indiana, and USC.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Where is Ohio State ranked in the 2026 preseason poll?
Phil Steele’s 2026 preseason top-40 ranks Ohio State at No. 3. - Who are the top two teams in the 2026 preseason rankings?
Notre Dame is ranked No. 1, followed by Georgia at No. 2. - How many career starts does the Ohio State offensive line return?
The offensive line returns a total of 91 career starts, led by players like Austin Siereveld, Luke Montgomery, and Carson Hinzman.
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