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

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...

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

Jay Stephens breaks down the huge recruiting win for Ryan Day’s program, examining Edmunds’ Elite 11 finalist pedigree and what this means for Ohio State’s offensive future. Key topics include the ripple effect on targets like Benny Easter Jr., Jamier Brown, and offensive line prospects, as well as the recruiting setback with David Gabriel Georges’...

SEC eyes breakaway league as Michigan, Ohio State, and the Big Ten respond—are seismic changes ahead for college football's powerhouses? The Big 10 Squad dissects SEC’s rumored solo championship ambitions and ESPN FPI’s controversial ranking of Ohio State’s brutal schedule. The crew questions the legitimacy of an SEC-only title, debates Michigan’s 8.5-win total under new head coach Kyle Whittingham, and analyzes key matchups against Oklahoma, Oregon, and Penn State. Rosters, coaching shifts, and quarterback Bryce Underwood's development take center stage as the Wolverines look to stay at the top of the Big Ten. Can Michigan exceed exp...

Ohio State Buckeyes lose 5-star running back David Gabriel Georges to Tennessee in a high-stakes recruiting battle, sparking questions about NIL deals and the future of elite RB talent in Columbus. Can Carlos Loughlin and Ryan Day recover and keep the Buckeyes’ backfield stacked for 2027?

Jay Stephens examines Ohio State’s strategy, the impact of missing out on Georges, and outlines why the Buckeyes’ RB room—featuring Bo Jackson, Isaiah West, Turbo Rogers, and Legend Bay—remains loaded with young talent. Key topics include recruiting challenges in the NIL era, the importance of competition, and potential late commitment...

Ohio State Buckeyes’ offensive line enters 2026 with unmatched experience, returning four starters—Luke Montgomery, Carson Hinzman, Austin Siereveld, and Phillip Daniels—with clear NFL potential. Can the Buckeyes’ revamped front impose its will from week one and set the tone for a championship run? Jay Stephens breaks down the fierce competition for the fifth starting spot, spotlighting Ian Moore as the frontrunner and assessing the impact of interior linemen Josh Padilla, Gabe VanSickle, and Jake Cook on this high-stakes battle.

Simulation fever hits as EA Sports College Football 27 predicts Ohio State to dominate—winning 22 simulated national championships out of 100...

Ohio State Buckeyes position themselves as the premier destination for 5-star running back David Gabriel Georges, outshining rivals Tennessee and Ole Miss in both player development and NFL readiness. Can Carlos Loughlin’s proven track record and the Buckeyes’ NFL pipeline tip the scales in their favor for this can’t-miss prospect?

Jay Stephens breaks down Ohio State’s recruiting strategy, the difference between “Saturday money” from NIL deals and “Sunday money” from NFL contracts, and the team’s specific development plans for DGG. Key highlights include the success of Bo Jackson and Quinshon Judkins, recent NIL bidding wars, and...

Ohio State Buckeyes build a dominant 2027 defensive line haul, stacking four top-135 recruits for a future powerhouse front. Is this the key to another national championship run? Positional versatility from DJ Jacobs, Marcus Fakatou, Wyatt Smith, and Karlos May gives the Buckeyes unmatched flexibility, echoing the formula of recent title-winning Big Ten teams that controlled the trenches.

Jay Stephens explores how Larry Johnson and Matt Patricia’s recruiting blueprint could shape Ohio State’s defensive identity, while spotlighting the high-stakes pursuit of 5-star running back David Gabriel Georges. Can the Buckeyes secure this potential day-one starter and mana...

Ohio State Buckeyes land a game-changing commitment as 4-star defensive tackle Karlos May from Alabama joins their 2027 recruiting class. Can Larry Johnson and Matt Patricia’s coaching unlock May’s elite quickness and versatility to fuel Ohio State’s defensive line dominance and keep the pipeline strong against SEC rivals?

Jay Stephens spotlights the Buckeyes’ latest recruiting surge, including 5-star talents Jamier Brown and DJ Jacobs, as well as key pickups Marcus Fakatou, Brady Edmunds, and Kellen Wymer. Unpacking critical needs for a complete class, Jay Stephens highlights why Ohio State must target another corner, tight end, receiver...

Ohio State Buckeyes face their biggest offensive challenge yet: Who will emerge as wide receiver two alongside Jeremiah Smith? With Brandon Innis, Chris Henry Jr., Devin McCuin, and Kyle Parker all battling for the coveted spot, the Buckeyes’ dynamic passing game hangs in the balance. Will experience or raw potential win out in Ryan Day’s high-octane system?

Jay Stephens breaks down the fierce competition in Ohio State’s wide receiver room, spotlighting the impact of Innis’ leadership and sacrifice, Henry Jr.’s sky-high ceiling, and McCuin’s proven production. Key topics include how internal competition could shape the Bu...

Ohio State’s Julian Sayin fuels early Heisman buzz—can Ryan Day’s revamped offense deliver another Big Ten title? Host Spencer McLaughlin puts Locked On’s Big Ten experts on the spot, challenging hot takes about the Ohio State Buckeyes’ quarterback play, Iowa Hawkeyes’ QB battle, and Washington Huskies’ locker room dynamics. Insightful banter erupts around which teams could break through daunting schedules and which dark horses might disappoint. Main conversations include Penn State’s favorable slate under Matt Campbell, Iowa’s search for improved passing efficiency, and whether Northwestern could play spoiler with Chip Kelly guiding the offense. Debates s...

Ohio State Buckeyes place enormous expectations on quarterback Julian Sayin as he takes the reins for a second straight year—can the rising star guide a loaded offense to new heights under Arthur Smith’s system? Jay Stephens spotlights Sayin’s evolving leadership, his ability to connect with a revamped roster, and the challenges of mastering a new playbook amid coaching changes. With standout talent like Will Howard in recent history, the pressure mounts on Sayin to not just perform, but to unify the team on and off the field.

Wide receiver Chris Henry Jr. steps into the sp...

Ohio State Buckeyes eye a defensive resurgence as James Smith’s explosive versatility raises expectations for the upcoming season—is he set to be the next game-wrecker in Columbus? Jay Stephens spotlights Smith’s transfer from Alabama, his potential impact on Matt Patricia’s multiple-front defense, and how his athleticism could free up linebackers like Peyton Pierce and Christian Allegro to make plays all over the field.

The conversation heats up as Jay Stephens introduces the “Bash Brothers”—James Smith and fellow transfer Qua Russaw—whose chemistry dates back to their Alabama high school days. Dive into the potential li...

Ohio State Buckeyes add explosive playmaker Devin McCuin from UTSA—will his speed transform the offense and special teams? Jay Stephens spotlights McEwen’s ability to create game-changing plays, break zones, and serve as a reliable target for quarterback Julian Sayin. Insightful stats, including McCuin’s 11.2 yards per catch and proven productivity, highlight why he’s poised to thrive alongside top wideouts like Jeremiah Smith and Brandon Inniss in the Big Ten.

Key topics include the challenge of McCuin’s transition from the American Conference to “big boy” Big Ten football, his surprising red zone prowess, and why he should...

Ohio State Buckeyes’ wide receiver room braces for a potential record-shattering season as Jeremiah Smith’s leadership and work ethic set the standard for new faces like Kyle Parker, Brandon Inniss, and Chris Henry Jr. Can Smith’s approach shape the unit into the nation’s most dangerous receiving corps? Meanwhile, Cortez Hankton steps in as receivers coach, facing the challenge of maintaining Buckeye tradition with over 50 newcomers on the roster.

Jay Stephens spotlights Kenyatta Jackson Jr.’s crucial role as the defensive line relies on transfers John Walker, James Smith, and Qua Russaw. Is this group ready to b...

Ohio State Buckeyes enter 2026 with a competitive edge—can Ryan Day’s veteran squad finally break through and reclaim college football’s spotlight? Jay Stephens and Jeff Hunt debate if Ohio State should run Arthur Smith’s offense or stick with Day’s proven approach, spotlighting the impact of experienced leaders like quarterback Julian and the explosive Bo Jackson in the backfield.

Key topics include Ohio State’s advantage with returning starters at key positions, Matt Patricia’s adaptable defensive schemes, and the critical importance of developing a tougher mentality after late-season letdowns against Michigan, Indiana, and Miami. The con...

On3’s latest quarterback and receiver rankings spark heated debate—can elite quarterback-receiver duos truly explain team success, or do inconsistencies between individual and duo rankings leave fans scratching their heads? The Locked On Big Ten Squad analyzes controversial placements: Why is Jayden Maiava ranked third among Big Ten quarterbacks, yet his top wideout drops to an honorable mention? Does the meteoric rise of Purdue’s Josh Hoover and Nick Marsh make sense, or is it pure off-season hype? Attention shifts to the Iowa Hawkeyes’ win total—set at 7.5 by FanDuel. Can Iowa’s new-look offense and a lean senior class...

Can Bo Jackson cement himself as Ohio State's next breakout offensive weapon? The Buckeyes' star sophomore running back is primed to headline the ground attack after a 1,000-yard freshman season, and expectations are sky-high for him to avoid the notorious sophomore slump.

The conversation focused on Jackson's elite vision, contact balance, and his role in Arthur Smith’s revamped offense. A key theme that emerged was the influence of Ohio State’s dynamic running back room, featuring names like Isaiah West and Ja'Kobi Jackson, and how their complementary skill sets could spark the offense. The discussion explored recr...

Ohio State Buckeyes’ Ryan Day faces mounting pressure—can he finally defeat Michigan at home? With the biggest rivalry in college football heating up, questions swirl around Day’s legacy, playoff implications, and the intensity of “The Game.” Does winning the Big Ten Championship now matter more than topping Michigan on Thanksgiving weekend?

Jay Stephens and Mo Murphy break down the Buckeyes’ quarterback stability with Julian Sayin and Tavis Sinclair, dissect the evolving playoff stakes, and debate the true measure of a successful season in Columbus. Insights include the importance of talent versus mentality, future quarterback plans, and what it...