Ohio State's football team, led by head coach Ryan Day, is gearing up for a high-stakes season with significant expectations. Will Howard, a Kansas State transfer, has been named the starting quarterback, and the team is favored to win the Big Ten Conference, which now includes USC, UCLA, Oregon, and Washington. Ohio State's roster was bolstered through substantial NIL investments, reportedly around $20 million, to attract top talent. The Buckeyes aim to rebound from consecutive losses to Michigan and missing the College Football Playoff in recent years. Additionally, Tegra Tshabola will start at right guard, while Devin Brown has been named the backup quarterback. Defensive coordinator Jim Knowles emphasizes a dynamic linebacker rotation featuring Sonny Styles, CJ Hicks, and Cody Simon.