The Buckeyes open their season in the Horseshoe against preseason No. 1 Texas in what already feels like a College Football Playoff matchup. Arch Manning and the Longhorns are rolling into Columbus with swagger, but Ohio State is the defending champion for a reason. Here are our bold predictions for Saturday.

1. Arch Manning throws multiple interceptions.

The Longhorns’ QB is polished, but starting a season in front of 105,000 Buckeyes is no small task. With first year defensive coordinator Matt Patricia dialing up pressure looks, Manning will be forced into tight-window throws. Caleb Downs and Sonny Styles will make him pay. Expect at least two interceptions, one of them killing an early Texas drive and giving the Buckeyes momentum.

2. Julian Sayin shines in his debut.

No jitters here. Sayin has already earned the trust of the locker room, and Ryan Day will scheme to get him in rhythm early. Look for easy throws to Brandon Innis and Carnell Tate to settle him in, then a deep strike to Jeremiah Smith that wakes up the Horseshoe before most fans have finished their first cup of coffee. I think Sayin goes 300+ yards and 3 TDs in his debut, planting his flag on the national stage.

3. Jeremiah Smith puts up video-game numbers.

Big games demand big stars, and Smith is built for moments like this. With Texas’s defense spread thin against the Buckeyes’ depth at wideout, Smith will find mismatches. I’m calling for 8+ receptions, 150+ yards, and at least one touchdown, including a highlight grab that replays all afternoon on FOX.

What are your bold predictions?

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