Story byZain BandoFri, February 6, 2026 at 11:43 PM UTC·2 min readWhy Ohio State's entire 2026 season could be defined by one Big Ten game, analyst argues originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here. The Ohio State Buckeyes are going to remain a top contender this fall, but it certainly doesn't mean their path to the College Football Playoff is any easier than in previous seasons. AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementIn fact, it might be more challenging. Games against the Texas Longhorns, Illinois Fighting Illini and Michigan Wolverines await the Buckeyes. But, according to Fox Sports analyst Joel Klatt, only one game truly matters: the Buckeyes' Oct.