Ball State vs Ohio State Picks and Predictions for Saturday, September 5th, 2026

By: Cameron Ross Published 09/04/2026, 11:21 PM ET

Ball State vs Ohio State Game Information

The Ball State Cardinals will begin their 2026 season with a difficult road test Saturday afternoon, traveling to Columbus for a 12:30 PM matchup against the Ohio State Buckeyes inside Ohio Stadium. Ball State is looking to rebound after finishing last season 4-8 overall and closing the year with 3 consecutive losses. Ohio State also makes its season debut Saturday ranked #1 in the nation following a 12-win campaign in 2025. Despite winning its first 12 games, the Buckeyes ended the year with back-to-back losses against Indiana and Miami. Stay in the news with our College Football Picks.

Ball State Preview

With the departure of Quarterback Kiael Kelly, the Cardinals turned to the transfer portal to fill their void in the backfield. Keldric Luster is the new Ball State quarterback coming into the 2026 season, making his first appearance for his third team. TJ Horton is the top ball carrier for Ball State this season after compiling 180 yards on 60 carries a year ago. Qian Magwood led all Ball State receivers a year ago with 320 yards and 1 score on 19 catches and will return this year for the Cardinals.

Ohio State Preview

Julian Sayin will again be the starting quarterback for the Buckeyes this year. Sayin had an incredible season a year ago, compiling 3,610 yards and 32 scores on 301 completions. Bo Jackson returns for the Buckeyes this season after leading the team with 1,090 yards and 6 scores on 179 carries. The Buckeyes also welcome back Jeremiah Smith this season after he led the team with 1243 yards and 12 scores on 87 catches last season.

Ball State vs Ohio State Pick

Ohio State has an overwhelming advantage at every position and should completely control this game from the opening kickoff. Ball State will struggle to move the ball against an elite Buckeyes defense, while Ohio State’s offense should score almost at will. Look for the Buckeyes to build a massive halftime lead and continue dominating with their reserves on the field as the Buckeyes coast to a blowout victory and cover at home.

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  • Pick: Ohio State Buckeyes -50.5
  • Secondary: Over 55.5

Final Score Prediction: Ohio State Buckeyes win 56-3

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