俄亥俄州立大学美式足球主教练Ryan Day在2026赛季首次训练后指出，进攻线的改善仍然是球队面临的主要挑战[1]。虽然有4名进攻线先发球员回归，但球队多个位置预计将启用新的先发阵容[1]。这一隐忧源于上赛季末球队在对印第安纳州的大十锦标赛和对迈阿密的大学橄榄球季后赛四分之一决赛中的进攻线表现不佳[1]。
在其他位置的竞争中，1000码冲球手Bo Jackson将继续参赛，但队友Isaiah West在休赛期表现突出，可能对其先发位置构成威胁[1]。新生跑卫Legend Bey因违反队规，未能参加周四的训练[1]。此外，Day还在关注后卫、紧端锋、备用四分卫及多个接球手位置的竞争情况[1]。正在执教俄亥俄州立大学第8个赛季的Day，目标是连续第8次获得美联社前10排名[1]。球队将于9月5日在主场对阵鲍尔州立大学开始新赛季[1]。
Ohio State University football head coach Ryan Day has identified the offensive line as a continued concern following the team's first practice of the 2026 season.[1] Despite four offensive line starters returning, Day indicated that multiple positions could see new starting players.[1]
The offensive line's struggles became apparent late last season, with particularly poor performances during the Big Ten Championship game against Indiana and the College Football Playoff quarterfinal matchup against Miami.[1] Beyond the offensive line, Day is monitoring competition at several other positions, including running back, tight end, backup quarterback, and multiple receiver spots.[1]
At running back, returning starter Bo Jackson, who rushed for 1,000 yards, is back on the roster, though teammate Isaiah West emerged as a competitive option during the offseason and may challenge for a starting role.[1] Freshman running back Legend Bey was absent from Thursday's practice after violating team rules.[1] This is Day's eighth season leading Ohio State, with the program aiming to secure its eighth consecutive AP top-10 ranking.[1] The Buckeyes will open their home schedule on September 5 against Ball State.[1]