Big Ten football is stronger at the top. The SEC is stronger in the middle - for whatever that's worth. Indiana is No. 1 my poll.

The two opponents Ohio State lost to in 2025, Indiana and Miami, played in the national championship game on Jan. 19, resulting in a 27-21 Hoosiers victory. It's the first time three different Big Ten teams have won the national title over three consecutive seasons.

Over the past two seasons, under two different coordinators, Ohio State’s defense has been nothing short of dominant. Ohio State’s defense, ranked No. 1 nation

On3 released their "2026 Way Too Early College Football Top 25," and six of Ohio State's opponents are on the list.

The Hoosiers, after beating the Buckeyes in the Big Ten Championship Game in Indianapolis in early December, rolled to a national title win and a perfect 16-0 season. It was the first title in program history and gave the Big Ten three-straight champions.

Ohio State offered 2027 safety Jayden Aparicio-Bailey on Monday, as safeties coach Matt Guerrieri stayed busy on the recruiting trail. Aparicio-Bailey is the No. 233 overall prospect and No. 25 safety in the 247Sports composite rankings in the 2027 class.

The Big Ten gave fans something to dream about when it was revealed Ohio State will travel to Bloomington on Oct. 17.