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Ohio State routs Ball State 56-3 in opener

9/8/2026

22 2 Full Breakdown

Summary

Buckeyes Extend Streak

Ohio State defeated Ball State 56-3 in its season opener on Sept. 5, 2026.
The win extended the Buckeyes’ season-opening streak to 27 games, the longest active streak.
Quarterback Julian Sayin threw for 320 yards, three touchdowns and rushed for a score.
Former coach Jim Tressel was inducted into Ohio State’s Ring of Honor, the first since 2014.

Summary

Nebraska Recruiting Surge

Over 30 recruits attended Nebraska's season opener, indicating strong recruiting momentum.
Freshman offensive lineman Barrett Kitrell praised the aggressive, technically sound O-line in his debut.
Transfer wide receiver Kwazi Gilmer logged five catches for 58 yards and a touchdown.
Four-star receiver Isaiah Grant received a scholarship offer during the game, joining interest from Oregon and others.

History

Historical Context

In 2002 Jim Tressel led the Ohio State Buckeyes to a 14-0 season, defeating the Miami Hurricanes 31-24 in double overtime to end Miami’s 34-game winning streak and claim the BCS national title. The program’s early-season dominance reappeared in 2026, when Ohio State extended its opening-win streak to 27 games, prompting the Big Ten to emphasize media contracts and recruiting advantages.

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Buckeyes Extend Streak

Ohio State defeated Ball State 56-3 in its season opener on Sept. 5, 2026.
The win extended the Buckeyes’ season-opening streak to 27 games, the longest active streak.
Quarterback Julian Sayin threw for 320 yards, three touchdowns and rushed for a score.
Former coach Jim Tressel was inducted into Ohio State’s Ring of Honor, the first since 2014.

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