NEXT-LEVEL Buckeyes: Ohio State Will OUTSMART Portal Chaos, NIL Trends & Build for Championships

Ohio State Buckeyes face a pivotal offseason as 31 players exit via the transfer portal—yet Ryan Day isn’t scrambling, he’s recalibrating for a championship run. Can Day’s blend of young five-star recruits and experienced transfers keep the Buckeyes elite, or does heavy portal reliance risk chemistry issues ahead of the 2026 football season?

Jay Stephens and Jeff Hunt break down Ohio State’s portal strategy, dissect recent roster shifts like the arrival of Matt Patricia and incoming safeties, and debate the true impact of NIL-enabled movement. Key topics include offensive line concerns after tough outings against Miami and IU, Ohio State’s recruitment mix, and the pressure on coaches to balance loyalty, talent, and results. Is Ohio State ready to reclaim its spot atop the Big Ten? Discover why the Buckeyes’ next moves could shape a new era in college football.

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