Ohio State Buckeyes Face Toughest Schedule Yet: What to Expect

The Ohio State Buckeyes are gearing up for a challenging 2023 football season, with a schedule that many are calling one of the toughest in recent history. Opening at home against Ball State on September 5, the Buckeyes will quickly face formidable opponents, including a road game at Texas in Week 2. This season, Ohio State will also contend with significant Big Ten matchups against Iowa, USC, Indiana, Oregon, and their annual rivalry game against Michigan. With five opponents ranked in the preseason Top 25, the Buckeyes' schedule is projected to be the most difficult in the Big Ten and ranks seventh nationally. Since Jim Tressel took over in 2001, Ohio State has consistently maintained high expectations, with a baseline of 10 wins each season. However, the 2023 slate could challenge that norm. According to projections, Ohio State is favored to win against teams like Ball State, Kent State, and Northwestern, but the competition from ranked teams will test their resilience. The Buckeyes' September 12 matchup against Texas marks a significant nonconference road trip, reminiscent of past high-stakes games. As fans look forward to the season, the question remains: can the Ohio State Buckeyes navigate this tough schedule and meet the lofty expectations set by their passionate fan base?