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

Ohio State Buckeyes brace for a high-stakes showdown against Indiana Hoosiers, as Ryan Day’s squad looks to rebound from recent challenges. Can quarterback Julian Sayin shake off his “worst game of the year” and handle the Hoosiers’ aggressive defensive front? With the offensive line’s health and Legend Bey’s playmaking potential in focus, Buckeye Nation will be watching every snap.

Justin Zwick breaks down the biggest matchups, from the Hoosiers’ dynamic receivers Charlie Becker and Nick Marsh to their disruptive D-line averaging three sacks per game. Discussion centers on Josh Hoover’s ability to carry Indiana against...

Big Ten supremacy hangs in the balance as Ohio State Buckeyes visit Indiana Hoosiers in a clash with playoff ramifications. With Jeremiah Smith drawing national attention and Ryan Day’s squad regaining key starters, can Ohio State cement its place atop the conference—or will Curt Cignetti’s defending champion Indiana deliver another shock to the college football landscape?

Matt Fontana and Justin Zwick break down the Buckeyes’ strategic edge, Indiana’s meteoric rise, and the implications for College Football Playoff seeding. Get the latest updates on injury returns, insights into Arthur Smith’s offense, and a look at the...

Ohio State Buckeyes rout Maryland 45-16, but questions loom after a sloppy showing in Columbus. Can Ryan Day’s squad tighten up ahead of their high-stakes clash with Indiana? Matt Fontana and Justin Zwick break down the concerning penalties, shakeups on the offensive line, and Julian Sayin’s decision-making in key moments. Despite the convincing win, discipline remains a hot topic as Buckeye fans eye championship aspirations.

Jeremiah Smith continues his Heisman-worthy campaign with two electric touchdowns, forcing Maryland’s defense to triple-team him and opening up massive rushing lanes for the Jackson brothers. The episode spotlights the em...

Ohio State Buckeyes survive Maryland Terrapins with Jeremiah Smith’s electrifying play—does this gritty win signal trouble or just championship mettle?

The conversation focused on Ohio State’s 45-16 victory over Maryland, spotlighting Jeremiah Smith’s two-touchdown performance and the Buckeyes’ powerful run game led by Bo and Ja'Kobi Jackson. Several points were raised, including concerns over a sloppy start, costly penalties, and turnovers that saw Ohio State lose key battles in fundamentals. The discussion explored the defense’s dominance in limiting Maryland to just 146 total yards, the impact of offensive line changes, and the importance of regaining...

Ohio State Buckeyes stare down classic trap game vs. Maryland Terrapins—can Ryan Day's squad stay sharp and avoid the upset? Matt Fontana and Justin Zwick spotlight the Buckeyes' keys to victory, dissecting Maryland's dangerous weapons like QB Malik Washington and blazing receiver Chris Durr Jr., who threaten the secondary with explosive plays. With Ohio State's veteran roster and home-field advantage at Ohio Stadium, will discipline and execution win the day?

Analysis zeroes in on pass protection against Maryland’s top-tier defensive line, strategies to exploit the Terrapins’ defensive tendencies, and the importance of strong starts—specifically Ohio Sta...

Big Ten playoff hopes waver as Iowa, Ohio State, and Oregon face mounting pressure. Can the Big Ten still send more than two teams to the College Football Playoff, or will the SEC dominate the expanded field? The panel dissects Iowa’s must-win clash at Washington, Ohio State’s playoff outlook, and Penn State’s credibility as Vegas favorites against USC.

Lively debate spotlights quarterback injuries, defensive struggles, and rising concerns about the conference’s depth. Hot takes include whether Curt Cignetti’s Indiana Hoosiers can stay relevant and if Minnesota, Northwestern, and Wisconsin are unexpectedly holding up the Big Te...

Jeremiah Smith could break the draft mold as Ohio State's next No. 1 overall pick—will NFL teams skip quarterbacks in favor of a generational wide receiver? Matt Fontana and Justin Zwick analyze Smith’s unprecedented rise, explore the shifting value of wide receivers in today’s NFL, and debate where stars like Kenyatta Jackson and Julian Sayin fit into future first-round conversations.

The hosts also spotlight Ohio State’s transfer portal impact, ranking top incoming contributors like Christian Alliegro, Ja'Kobi Jackson, and Devin McCuin, while weighing injury concerns for key receivers ahead of the Maryland matchup. With Ryan Day...

Ohio State Buckeyes face mounting questions as Ryan Day hints at lineup changes and challenges the special teams’ standard after a series of inconsistent performances. As pressure builds with major Big Ten matchups looming, the Buckeyes’ kicking woes spark debate: Are transfer portal “hired guns” the answer, or should Ohio talent get the call? Former OSU quarterback Justin Zwick and Matt Fontana debate whether homegrown grit or experience will make the difference in clutch moments.

Laken Litman of Fox Sports joins to unpack her exclusive feature on rising star Julian Sayin, exploring the quarterback’s unique personality, family of...

Can Ohio State’s Jeremiah Smith become college football’s first-ever unanimous Heisman Trophy winner? Matt Fontana and Justin Zwick debate Smith’s historic season, pondering if he can break Joe Burrow’s voting record and whether any contender—like Keelon Russell or CJ Carr—can rival his dominance. Heisman voting quirks, positional biases, and the strength of Ohio State’s schedule all factor into this spirited discussion.

Deep-dive analysis of snap counts from the Buckeyes’ victory over Iowa spotlights emerging contributors like Qua Russaw and Christian Alliegro, shifting roles in the linebacker and running back rooms, and the team’s p...

Ohio State Buckeyes dominate Iowa behind Jeremiah Smith’s record-breaking performance—has Smith already clinched the Heisman? Matt Fontana and Justin Zwick break down Smith’s historic 11-catch, 200+ yard, 2-touchdown outing, comparing his stats to past greats like DeVonta Smith and Terry Glenn. With even-money Heisman odds five weeks into the season, can any defense slow him down, or will Ryan Day keep his foot on the gas?

The conversation spotlights quarterback Julian Sayin’s efficiency, the evolving Buckeyes’ pass-first identity, and a defensive front that stifled Iowa to under 50 rushing yards. Analysis touches on rising stars like Devin...

Missouri Tigers dismantle Florida Gators behind Austin Simmons’ breakout and Jamal Roberts’ explosive late runs. As coaching seats heat up, is Eli Drinkwitz safer than Lincoln Riley? The SEC’s shifting competitive balance, exemplified by wild margins and upsets, raises questions about defense and the risk of letdown games on the road.

The conversation focused on Ohio State’s dominance, Houston Cougars’ underappreciated win with their unique astronaut helmets, and Miami Hurricanes’ ACC supremacy heading into a pivotal clash with Notre Dame. A key theme that emerged was the controversy surrounding AP Poll rankings, playoff expansion debates—including auto...

Ohio State Buckeyes dominate the Iowa Hawkeyes 31-14 as Jeremiah Smith delivers a Heisman-worthy performance with 206 receiving yards and two touchdowns. Are defenses powerless to stop this generational talent? Matt Fontana highlights how Smith’s explosive playmaking and Julian Sayin’s connection through the air led to another convincing victory, while JaKobi Jackson and Bo Jackson powered a balanced Buckeye run game.

Defensively, Ohio State’s front stuffed Iowa’s rushing attack, holding them to a mere 39 yards on the ground. Matt Fontana analyzes the standout efforts from Peyton Pierce, Qua Russaw, and a rapidly improving linebacker rotation...

Ohio State prepares for a high-stakes clash against the Iowa Hawkeyes at Kinnick Stadium, a notoriously challenging venue with upset potential looming. Can Ryan Day’s Buckeyes withstand Iowa’s gritty defense, physical run game, and the raucous, sold-out crowd while maintaining playoff momentum?

Matt Fontana and Justin Zwick break down Ohio State’s offensive firepower, highlight Jeremiah Smith’s relentless work ethic, and debate whether a new breakout receiver will emerge if Iowa keys in on Smith. Key topics include special teams as a game-changer, the importance of winning the turnover battle, and how play-action could test bot...

Lincoln Riley faces intense scrutiny after USC mishandles a crucial moment and falls to Oregon, raising questions about culture and leadership in the Trojans’ locker room. Can Riley’s squad rebound against a struggling Washington team at home, or will pressure hit a breaking point? Meanwhile, Iowa stuns Michigan with a dramatic finish—setting up a high-stakes clash with undefeated Ohio State in Iowa City. Are the Hawkeyes poised for another giant upset?

The Big 10 Squad breaks down the Big Ten’s must-watch matchups, key storylines, and playoff implications. Discussion spans player development at USC, Iowa’s relentless...

Ohio State Buckeyes brace for another Kinnick Stadium showdown as Iowa Hawkeyes threaten an upset in front of a raucous, sold-out crowd—will the Buckeyes’ defense recover after last week’s struggles? Trent Condon, Matt Fontana, and Justin Zwick break down the keys to victory, including Ohio State’s vulnerable run defense, Iowa’s emerging wide receiver threats like Reese Vander Zee and Tony Diaz, and the Buckeyes’ offensive adjustments following injuries and their surprising loss to Texas.

The trio relives unforgettable moments in Iowa–Ohio State history, shares what makes Kinnick one of college football’s toughest road ve...

Ohio State Buckeyes' defense faces mounting questions as Ryan Day demands higher standards and hints at lineup changes. Can emerging young stars spark a turnaround up front, or will the run defense woes continue against Iowa’s old-school, play-action-heavy attack? Jeremiah Smith draws Saquon Barkley and Randy Moss comparisons as Kirk Ferentz and Matt Fontana spotlight his generational talent and rare playmaking ability.

Matt Fontana and Justin Zwick break down defensive rotations, linebacker struggles, and how injuries to Jay Timmons might impact the secondary. The conversation shifts to the offensive line, where Gabe VanSickle and Austin Siereveld ar...

Ohio State Buckeyes’ national title hopes may rest on quarterback Julian Sayin’s shoulders. Can Sayin’s growth unlock another championship run for Ryan Day’s team? Matt Fontana and Justin Zwick analyze Sayin’s stellar start, discuss his development as a dual-threat, and break down Ryan Day’s public challenge to his QB. With Jeremiah Smith leading the receiving corps and questions looming on defense and the run game, the hosts debate whether a Sayin-Smith duo can power the Buckeyes through the Big Ten gauntlet.

Key topics include insights from Ohio State’s internal performance reviews, assistant coac...

Ohio State Buckeyes surge into the top 5 as Jeremiah Smith dominates, seizing control of the Heisman race with a historic four-touchdown performance. Is Smith not just the best receiver in Buckeyes history, but the top player ever to wear scarlet and gray? Matt Fontana and Justin Zwick break down Smith’s unstoppable connection with quarterback Julian Sayin, the struggles defenses face trying to slow him down, and why the Buckeyes’ offense looks poised for a big-play run through the Big Ten.

Defensive concerns loom, however, as poor linebacker play and missed tackles let Illinois rack up explosive runs...

Ohio State Buckeyes kick off Big Ten play against Illinois Fighting Illini with critical questions at running back and offensive line. Can Ryan Day's squad finally ignite the run game and clean up red zone efficiency to dominate an Illinois defense ranked outside the top 75? Matt Fontana and Justin Zwick spotlight Katin Hauser’s arm, Collin Dixon’s impact, and whether OSU’s defense can ramp up its pass rush against a rebuilt Illini offensive front.

Key storylines include third-down struggles, offensive line chemistry changes, and the Buckeyes’ quest to turn backfield promise into explosive gains. The duo also...

Big Ten title hopes hang in the balance as Michigan hosts Iowa in a high-stakes showdown. Can the Hawkeyes’ revitalized offense under Tim Lester finally break through, or will Michigan’s elite defense keep them in check? The Big 10 Squad debates each team’s keys to victory, while panelists weigh the odds and point spreads, questioning whether Kirk Ferentz’s road warriors can pull off a major upset.

The spotlight also shifts to USC and Oregon as Lincoln Riley’s job security comes under scrutiny. Is this a must-win for the Trojans, or will Dan Lanning and the Ducks recl...

Ohio State Buckeyes prepare for the Battle of Illibuck, eyeing dominance over Illinois Fighting Illini—can Katin Houser and Collin Dixon spark an upset, or will Jeremiah Smith and Ryan Day’s squad maintain control? The conversation focused on offensive changes for Illinois, including Hauser’s strong accuracy and Dixon’s nation-leading seven receiving touchdowns, while Ohio State’s search for consistent depth behind Smith remains a pressing storyline.

A key theme that emerged was the revamped Illinois defense under Bobby Hauck’s 3-3-5 scheme, struggling with personnel but boasting NFL-caliber talent in the secondary. The discussion e...

Ohio State Buckeyes shake up their offense as Ryan Day sends a clear message—run harder or lose your spot. Bo Jackson faces scrutiny for his lack of explosive runs, while Ja'Kobi Jackson continues to earn praise with his downhill, physical style. Competition heats up in the running back room, and changes on the offensive line loom large as Gabe VanSickle and Austin Siereveld take on new roles ahead of Big Ten play.

Matt Fontana and Justin Zwick tackle the fan base’s growing impatience, the emergence of Christian Allegro in the defense, and why the pursuit of a...

Ohio State Buckeyes tumble in the AP poll despite a strong resume, reigniting debates about the poll’s relevance in the era of the College Football Playoff. Matt Fontana and Justin Zwick break down the controversy, questioning why teams like Georgia and Texas remain atop the rankings while Ohio State faces tougher scrutiny. Do preseason rankings and media narratives hold back Ryan Day’s squad, and should fans ignore the AP altogether?

Quarterback intrigue heats up in Columbus as Luke Fahey leapfrogs Tavian St. Clair for the Buckeyes’ backup job, casting fresh uncertainty on future depth charts. The ho...

Ohio State Buckeyes' Jeremiah Smith etches his name atop the program's all-time receiving leaderboard, sparking debate about his place in NCAA football history. Could Smith join the exclusive Triple Crown club—leading the Buckeyes in receptions, yards, and touchdowns—all within just three seasons? Matt Fontana and Justin Zwick track Smith’s record-breaking pace, dissect his on-field dominance, and compare him to national greats like Corey Davis and DeVonta Smith.

The hosts break down Ohio State's 59-point rout over Kent State, spotlighting Julian Sayin’s efficient passing, key touchdowns from Bo Jackson and Chris Henry, and areas where Ry...

Ohio State Buckeyes wide receiver Jeremiah Smith is on the brink of smashing school records, solidifying his place as potentially the greatest receiver in Buckeyes history. Can anyone match the legacy he’s building in Columbus? Hosts Matt Fontana and Justin Zwick spotlight Smith’s meteoric rise, the significance of Ohio State’s elite receiver pipeline, and what sets recent stars like Michael Jenkins, Chris Olave, and Marvin Harrison Jr. apart in college football and the NFL.

The conversation pivots to Ohio State’s matchup against Kent State, exploring the Golden Flashes’ recent improvements, key players like Dru DeShie...

Big Ten faces scrutiny as Michigan’s controversial win sparks debate—can the conference restore its reputation before playoff selections loom? The Big 10 Squad breaks down the FBS Oversight Committee’s ruling on the Michigan–Western Michigan officiating drama and question the value of public apologies with no actual remedies. With underwhelming showings from Ohio State, Michigan, Penn State, and more, is Indiana really the conference’s best hope for national championship glory?

The panel spotlights UCLA’s momentum, USC’s 30-point fourth-quarter leads, and Washington’s offensive woes—while poking fun at Purdue’s heartache and Maryland’s September hot streak...

Ohio State Buckeyes’ special teams come under the microscope as Ryan Day stands firm behind kicker Connor Hawkins while hinting at possible changes. Can increased reps for Legend Bey and rising young talents ignite a midseason turnaround? As the Buckeyes adjust after their loss to Texas, lineup tweaks and injury recovery become key talking points, with analysis of Philip Daniels and Zion Grady’s status and fresh opportunities for Gabe VanSickle and Austin Siereveld on the offensive line.

Matt Fontana and Justin Zwick also break down Heather Dinich’s wild college football playoff “bubble watch,” exploring scenarios where the...

Ohio State Buckeyes’ fourth-quarter collapse against Texas raises big questions about Ryan Day’s play-calling and Arthur Smith’s offensive strategy. Matt Fontana and former Buckeyes QB Justin Zwick break down the coaching decisions that fueled the heartbreaking loss, including critical moments like missed shot plays, conservative third-quarter runs, and the controversial goal-line stand. Is there a real fourth-quarter problem in Columbus, or are fans overreacting to high-stakes letdowns?

Player development and playing time dominate the debate as calls grow for young talents like Riley Pettijohn, Khary Wilder, Legend Bey, and Chris Henry to earn more reps. With r...

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...