Ohio State routs Ball State 56-3 ahead of Texas showdown

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Ohio State routs Ball State 56-3 ahead of Texas showdown

11 sourcesUpdated Sep 6, 2026

Top-ranked Ohio State overwhelmed Ball State 56-3, scoring on seven of its next nine possessions after an opening three-and-out and holding the Cardinals to 165 total yards. Quarterback Julian Sayin completed 21 of 25 passes for 320 yards and three touchdowns, while wide receiver Jeremiah Smith made eight catches for 151 yards and two spectacular touchdowns, including a one-handed grab. Running back Bo Jackson added a 65-yard touchdown, and linebacker TJ Alford recorded Ohio State’s first interception of the season. The dominant performance set up a highly anticipated matchup at No. 5 Texas on Sept. 12, with Ohio State’s standout trio drawing early Heisman attention.

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Last updatedSep 6, 2026

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Left· 2 sources

“On to Texas! Ohio State's Ryan Day, Julian Sayin, TJ Alford are ready”

Columbus Dispatch · Sep 5, 2026

Center· 1 source

“ELITE DUO: Ohio State's Julian Sayin, Jeremiah Smith EXPLODE in Opener—Key Fixes Ahead!”

KIDY - Fox West Texas · Sep 5, 2026

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