Week 3 is here, and the Buckeyes return to Ohio Stadium to host the Ohio Bobcats in a true in-state clash. Coming off a statement win over Grambling State, Ryan Day’s squad is locked in and looking to sharpen their execution before Big Ten play heats up. Here are bold predictions for Saturday’s matchup:

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1. Julian Sayin completes at least 90% of his passes in the first half
Sayin looked nearly flawless versus Grambling, going 18-of-19 for 306 yards and four touchdowns in the first half alone. Against Ohio — a team without a top-tier secondary — expect the Buckeyes to ride that momentum and clean execution early. A 90%+ completion rate in the first half sets a statement.

2. Jeremiah Smith catches three touchdown passes
Smith has been the go-to playmaker, with big plays and big moments under his belt. With Sayin pushing the ball downfield, Smith should again find room in the red zone and on deep looks. Getting him three TDs would push his early season highlight reel even further.

3. Ohio State’s backup running backs combine for over 150 rushing yards
Bo Jackson already carved up Grambling for 108 yards in limited snaps, and the depth at RB (with CJ Donaldson, James Peoples, Isaiah West, among others) is looking stronger. Against a less physical Ohio front, expect multiple backs to get carries, wear down defenses, and surpass 150 yards as a unit.

4. Defense scores again
The Buckeyes’ defense has forced turnovers and dominated time of possession so far. Last week, a fumble was scooped for a score. Ohio University has shown moments of vulnerability, especially under pressure and in big moments. Prediction: one interception returned for a touchdown and another defensive or special teams score.

5. Ohio State wins by at least 35 points and plays st starters only first half
The betting line has OSU as heavy favorites (approx –34.5) over Ohio University. Given their depth and offensive explosion, expect Ohio State to lead big early, lean on backups in the second half, and still put up a dominant score margin. A 35+ point win while resting starters in the latter half feels very plausible.

What are your bold predictions?

Photo Credit: ohiobobcats.com