Oddsmakers project tough Ohio State season ahead

As spring practices start, oddsmakers seem to think Ohio State is in for a tougher season that normal.

Ohio State once again finds itself staring at significant wins expectations, with Fanduel posting the Buckeyes’ win total at 9.5 next season. Ohio State however, finds themselves behind Indiana (10.5) and Oregon (10.5) and tied with Penn State for totals next season.

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Recent history suggests that Fanduel is being conservative with the number being offered. Ohio State went 12-0 last season before losing to Indiana in the Big Ten championship. And then also eventually losing to Miami in the College Football Playoff quarterfinals. The annual lofty goals are deserved, as Ohio State has hit at least 10 regular season wins in 18 of 20 seasons.

Ohio State’s high win total can be justified. The 2026 roster returns a heisman finalist quarterback in Julian Sayan who threw for more than 3,600 yards and set a school-record by completing 77 percent of his passes. Star wideout Jeremiah Smith is considered one of the best players in all of college football and running back Bo Jackson is just one name in what many consider one of the nation’s best backfields.