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

Ohio State Buckeyes see national championship odds improve after a heart-stopping 24-23 loss to Texas—does Vegas know something the AP poll doesn’t? While Steve Sarkisian and Ryan Day both weigh in on the game’s impact, the conversation spotlights how resilient play, clutch moments, and near-misses have reshaped perceptions of this Buckeyes squad.

Justin Zwick and Matt Fontana break down Ohio State’s red zone woes, emerging receivers, and the implications of close non-conference battles under college football’s evolving playoff format. Insightful debate covers Texas’ legitimacy, Georgia’s question marks, and why marquee matchups should be rewa...

Ohio State Buckeyes stunned by Texas after blowing a 20-point lead—has the team’s Achilles’ heel been exposed? Matt Fontana and Justin Zwick break down the Buckeyes’ gut-wrenching loss in Austin, spotlighting the electric first-half connection between Julian Sayin and Jeremiah Smith and a dominant offensive line performance that unraveled after halftime. The show examines suspect play-calling by Arthur Smith, missed opportunities from the receiving corps beyond Jeremiah, and critical fourth-down defensive breakdowns that shifted momentum in Texas’ favor.

Key discussion points include the impact of Connor Hawkins' missed field goal, Ohio State’s inability to finish drive...

Ohio State Buckeyes suffer a shocking 24-23 loss as the Texas Longhorns storm back from a 20-point deficit. Did conservative play calling by Arthur Smith and Ryan Day cost the Buckeyes a critical road win—and potentially playoff positioning? Matt Fontana breaks down the collapse, spotlighting Jeremiah Smith’s electrifying first half, missed opportunities for Julian Sayin, and the pivotal special teams blunder by kicker Connor Hawkins. The discussion unpacks controversial officiating, Texas’s late-game momentum led by Arch Manning, and whether Ohio State’s stagnant second-half offense signals deeper coaching concerns. Playoff implications, potential AP poll drops, and the high...

Ohio State Buckeyes chase victory against the Texas Longhorns in one of college football’s most anticipated showdowns. Can Qua Russaw's return spark a dominant defensive performance, or will Arch Manning’s dynamic threat test the Buckeyes’ linebackers and secondary? The stage is set for a scorching night in Austin, intensified by 100-degree heat and a sea of Scarlet and Gray in the stands.

Matt Fontana and Justin Zwick spotlight key matchups: Devin Sanchez and Jermaine Mathews taking on Texas’s explosive duo, Cam Coleman and Ryan Wingo; Kenyatta Jackson’s battle with Melvin Siani in the trenches...

Controversy rocks the Big Ten as Michigan escapes Western Michigan with a wild, disputed win—will the College Football Playoff Committee remember? The Big 10 Squad debates the infamous “Clockgate,” field stormings, and the reputation of officiating when blue blood programs are on the line.

Hosts preview marquee matchups: Ohio State vs. Texas and Michigan vs. Oklahoma have the Big Ten’s reputation hanging in the balance. Can Ryan Day’s Buckeyes outduel Arch Manning’s Longhorns? Is Bryce Underwood’s starting job in trouble as Michigan faces a ferocious Sooners defense? Rapid-fire picks, inside jokes, and sharp takes fuel the squad...

Matt and Justin welcome on Brad Kellner from Locked On Longhorns to help preview the huge matchup.

Ohio State Buckeyes and Texas Longhorns set the stage for a potential regular season classic, with all eyes on explosive quarterback-wide receiver duos Arch Manning & Cam Coleman and Julian Sayin & Jeremiah Smith. Anticipation runs high as both fanbases prepare for what could be the most-watched college football game ever—can the Buckeyes’ red zone efficiency and pass rush contain Texas’ high-flying offense, or will Steve Sarkisian’s squad finally break through?

Matt, Brad, and Justin break down the coaching...

Ohio State Buckeyes seek redemption as Jeremiah Smith faces Texas Longhorns' revamped defense in a high-stakes top-5 clash. Can Smith break free from Texas' coverage after two quiet showings, or will new defensive coordinator Wil Muschamp's aggressive approach keep him in check once more?

Matt Fontana and Justin Zwick break down quarterback Julian Sayin's evolution from game manager to potential game-winner, spotlighting his offseason growth and chemistry with Smith. Key topics include the Buckeyes’ offensive line uncertainties, the impact of fresh faces in the Longhorns’ secondary, and Ohio State’s shift toward a pass-heavy attack. With playoff implic...

Ohio State Buckeyes gear up for a historic clash with Texas Longhorns, as star quarterbacks Julian Sayin and Arch Manning prepare to battle on one of college football’s biggest stages. Can Steve Sarkisian’s prediction of the most-watched regular season game come true, and will Cam Coleman’s bold words ignite new rivalry fire? Ticket prices soar and fan anticipation reaches a fever pitch, making this primetime showdown a must-watch event.

Matt Fontana and Justin Zwick break down the marquee quarterback duel, examine the strengths of both teams’ elite wide receiver rooms, and debate how expanded playoffs...

Ohio State Buckeyes dominate Ball State with a 56-3 victory, as freshman wide receiver Jeremiah Smith torches the Cardinals' defense for 151 yards and 2 touchdowns. Is Smith emerging as the Buckeyes’ next superstar threat ahead of their anticipated showdown with Texas? Matt Fontana and Justin Zwick break down Smith’s jaw-dropping performance and quarterback Julian Sayin's impressive efficiency after a slow start, spotlighting explosive plays, elite separation, and next-level tempo in the Buckeyes’ passing attack.

Discussion heats up around offensive line concerns as lineup changes and pass protection struggles raise tough questions before facing the Longhorns' relentless defensive front...

Ohio State Buckeyes dominate Ball State 56-3 as Jeremiah Smith shines with a Heisman-worthy display. Can this offense deliver against Texas next week? Matt Fontana spotlights the electric Sayin-Smith connection, explosive runs from Bo and JaKobi Jackson, and a defensive line led by John Walker and James Smith that left Ball State with negative rushing yards in the third quarter.

Key talking points include persistent concerns over Ohio State’s offensive line, special teams miscues, and the coaching staff’s adjustments that could define the Buckeyes’ showdown with the Texas Longhorns. Listener comments weigh in on the O-line...

Ohio State Buckeyes kick off the 2026 season with sky-high expectations and fresh faces ready to make their mark. Can Arthur Smith’s play calling and a revamped roster dominate the Ball State Cardinals and set the tone for a championship run?

Matt Fontana and Justin Zwick break down key matchups at Ohio Stadium, spotlighting linebackers Payton Pierce and Christian Alliegro, wide receiver battles featuring Brock Boyd and Chris Henry Jr., and a defensive front anchored by James Smith. Insights include Ball State’s RPO-style offense led by Keldric Luster, the impact of new coordinators, and special teams’ potent...

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

From upset alerts with Michigan State vs. Toledo to whether Fresno State can spoil USC’s home opener, the crew forecasts which Big Ten giants might stumble against the spread. The panel spotli...

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

Bruce Feldman’s anonymous college football coaches’ survey sparks debate around national championship contenders, Heisman favorites like Jeremiah Smith and Dante Moore, and which teams might be overhyped—LSU and USC top the “f...

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

Key talking points include new faces on both sides of the ball—highlighting transfers like Devin McCuin, Earl Little, James Smith, and John Walk...

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

On the defensive side, Matt Patricia’s histor...

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

Captains and culture take center stage...

Big Ten sets the tone for college football as Tony Petitti leads a bold rule change, shutting out returning NFL players and prompting other power conferences to follow. Can this decisive action keep chaos at bay across the NCAA? Analysts weigh in on the repercussions for stars like Aaron Graves and examine how this “adult in the room” move shapes transfer eligibility and enforcement, with head coach suspensions and hefty fines on the table for violators. Week 0 kicks off with USC facing San Jose State, while Indiana’s projected 10.5 win total sparks lively debate. The squad discusses Big Ten conten...

Big Ten contenders fuel championship buzz as Indiana, Ohio State, Oregon, and Washington jockey for playoff supremacy. Will Josh Hoover elevate Indiana’s defense into NCAA history, or can powerhouse rosters like Oregon and USC crash the party? Heated debates ignite around Penn State’s playoff chances, Washington’s leap to 10 wins, and the pivotal Indiana–Ohio State clash in Bloomington. Host Spencer McLaughlin and the Locked On Big Ten crew break down bold predictions, playoff math, and the season’s must-watch games—including USC vs. Oregon and Indiana’s high-stakes trip to Husky Stadium. Key topics include the potential for...

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

The episode also tackles Ohio State’s increasing roster depth—boasting four running backs, six receivers, and 22 players on both offense and defense pr...

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

Key topics include the addition of Wisconsin transfer Christian Allegro and his relentless, hard-hitting linebacker play, the influx of size with newcomers like James Smith and Ja...

Big Ten challengers slam SEC supremacy as preseason poll debate heats up. Can Michigan and Oregon silence doubters and reclaim conference bragging rights? The Big 10 Squad calls out SEC bias in the On3 preseason Top 25, question Florida’s ranking, and dissect how brand bias skews College Football Playoff perspectives. The team roasts Purdue Athletic Director Tommy McClelland’s bold jab at Indiana’s championship pedigree, with reactions spanning ridicule to strategy breakdowns. Plus, the spotlight shifts to Oregon’s daunting 10.5 win total—the hosts break down the Ducks’ season outlook, key matchups against Ohio State and USC, injury updates, and title-or...

Ohio State Buckeyes see something special in Florida State transfer Earl Little Jr.—can his playmaking ability elevate the Silver Bullets’ defense to new heights? Jay Stephens spotlights Little’s expected role alongside Jaylen McClain at deep safety and unpacks bold comparisons to Caleb Downs. With star-studded additions and former rivals now teammates, is Ohio State’s defense about to reclaim its national dominance?

The conversation shifts to Carson Hinzman, who draws motivation from passionate Buckeye fans as he anchors one of the country’s most anticipated offensive lines. Plus, true freshman Jay Timmons sheds his black stripe fol...

Ohio State Buckeyes' wide receiver room is buzzing as Brandon Inniss shows major physical and mental growth in camp. Can Inniss’s evolution finally translate to on-field dominance, and is a first-round NFL draft pick future slipping back into focus? Jay Stephens breaks down Inniss’s journey, the impact of the YAC philosophy, and the crucial numbers that separate him from recent Buckeye stars like Chris Olave and Julian Fleming.

The show also spotlights why Jacoby Jackson losing his black stripe is a big deal for Ohio State’s running back rotation, and assesses Chris Henry Jr. and Br...

Ohio State Buckeyes’ defense is set to unleash unprecedented versatility on opponents—will this creativity make them the most feared unit in college football? Jay Stephens explores how Matt Patricia’s ability to mix 4-2-5, 3-4, and even 4-4 defensive looks gives Ohio State an edge heading into matchups against Texas and Ball State. Spotlighting stars like Quay Russaw, James Smith, Eddrick Houston, and budding talents Devin Sanchez and Jay Timmons, the episode spotlights how veteran leadership and young energy could create matchup nightmares all season.

Linebacker rotations, D-line transfer John Walker, and strategic secondary reinforcements like E...

Ohio State Buckeyes’ running back room is heating up as Isaiah West surges ahead in the battle for RB1. Is Bo Jackson’s grip on the starting job slipping, or is this just a motivational ploy from Ryan Day and Carlos Loughlin to push their top backs to new heights?

Jay Stephens and Mo Murphy break down the strengths and weaknesses of Bo Jackson, Isaiah West’s explosive emergence, and the electrifying potential of true freshman Legend Bay in a Curtis Samuel–style hybrid role. They spotlight the importance of mental toughness, address early discipline issues with Bay, and...

Ohio State Buckeyes land 2028’s No. 1 quarterback, Christopher Vargas, in a major recruiting coup. Can Ryan Day capitalize on this foundation to secure the nation’s most dynamic offensive class?

Jay Stephens breaks down Vargas’ elite skill set—highlighting his poise, quick release, and ability to command an offense even as a junior. The conversation explores what Vargas’ commitment means for the Buckeyes’ recruiting momentum, spotlighting fellow verbal commits Jet Harrison (Marvin Harrison Jr.’s brother), edge rusher Jamir Wyche, and running back Elijah Newman-Hall. Key topics include Ohio State’s recent quarterback success stories, the fierce battle with Oreg...

Ohio State Buckeyes wide receiver Devin McCuin is turning heads in training camp, pushing past expectations and challenging established stars like Chris Henry Jr. and Kyle Parker. Will McCuin’s physicality and route-running elevate the Buckeyes’ aerial attack and take pressure off Jeremiah Smith as they prepare for a daunting non-conference slate against Texas and Alabama?

Jay Stephens breaks down Ryan Day’s bold strategy of experimenting with the offensive line, rotating players like Austin Siereveld, Ian Moore, and Phillip Daniels in search of the best five-man unit. Key topics include the importance of early chemistry on the O...

Ohio State Buckeyes shake up camp as sophomore Isaiah West splits first-team running back reps with Ja'Kobi Jackson, ramping up competition for Bo Jackson and showcasing the depth of the Buckeyes' offensive arsenal. Ryan Day rewards West’s grind and offseason dedication while keeping fans guessing about the backfield hierarchy—just as the Buckeyes brace for early-season tests against Ball State and Texas.

Jay Stephens dissects Ryan Day’s evolving offensive line strategy and the notable rise of transfer cornerback Dominick Kelly. Insights include standout performances from Brandon Inniss and Brock Boyd on special teams, Devin Sanchez’s bold c...

ESPN faces backlash over unchecked SEC bias, stirring questions about college football media narratives. The Big 10 Squad debates Peter Burns’ misleading SEC vs. Big Ten strength of schedule claims, examining how media giants influence perceptions and why networks like Fox and CBS hesitate to match ESPN’s promotional energy for the Big Ten. Ohio State’s and Penn State’s identical 9.5 win totals spark heated predictions. The roundtable breaks down Ryan Day’s daunting schedule—including Texas, USC, Oregon, and Michigan—and evaluates whether the Buckeyes can surpass lofty expectations or stumble amid fierce competition. Insights into Penn State’s revamped roste...

Ohio State training camp is officially underway, and the Buckeyes can't afford to waste a single rep if they want to compete for a national championship.

Host Jay Stephens breaks down why intensity, urgency, and purpose must define every practice as Ryan Day's team begins its journey toward the 2026 season. Jay also highlights the players who have the best chance to shake up key position battles during camp and discusses Ryan Day's timeline for identifying the starters who will lead Ohio State into Week 1.

Tune in for the latest analysis on Ohio State football as...

Ohio State Buckeyes lock in 4-star quarterback Brady Edmunds, dashing UCLA Bruins’ hopes and raising questions about West Coast recruiting power shifts. Can Ryan Day’s recruiting strategy keep Ohio State in national title contention while UCLA and USC scramble to reclaim their local football dominance?

Jay Stephens and Zach Anderson-Yoxsimer break down Edmunds’ decision to remain loyal to the Buckeyes despite a strong UCLA push and explore its impact on both programs’ quarterback futures. The conversation covers Ohio State’s grip on California talent, the Bruins’ urgent search for a 2027 QB, and USC’s fading influence under Lincoln...

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...

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 un...

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...

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 Jack...

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 th...

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 lesso...

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 Is...

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 ex...

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 co...