COLUMBUS, Ohio – Looking to move past a stunning loss in Texas, the No. 6 Ohio State Buckeyes are back home to face the Kent State Golden Flashes today – Saturday, Sept. 19 – at Ohio Stadium.
How to watch Ohio State vs. Kent State today
- What: Ohio State vs. Kent State
- When: Saturday, Sept. 19, 2026
- Time: 12 p.m. Eastern
- Where: Ohio Stadium | Columbus, Ohio
- Channel: FOX
- Streaming options: DIRECTV (free trial and $35 off your first month), FuboTV (free trial and $25 off your first month) and SlingTV
Here are five storylines to watch for today’s game:
1. Ohio State falls to No. 6 in AP poll after squandering 20-point lead
The Buckeyes surrendered a 20-point lead in the final quarter of their 24-23 loss to the Longhorns. This stunning shift saw Texas outgain Ohio State 152-50 in the final frame, resulting in a significant drop in the national rankings following one of the season’s most anticipated matchups.
2. Receiver Jeremiah Smith continues historic pace with second straight 150-yard game
Junior receiver Jeremiah Smith remains a dominant force for the Buckeyes’ offense, hauling in eight receptions for 164 yards and a touchdown. This performance marks his second consecutive game surpassing the 150-yard milestone, providing a consistent vertical threat as the team enters the third week of the season.
3. Julian Sayin held in check by Longhorns’ defense
Quarterback Julian Sayin struggled to maintain offensive momentum late in the game, finishing 17 of 32 for 278 yards with an interception on the final play. While Sayin threw for one touchdown, his inability to overcome the Texas surge highlighted a rare moment of vulnerability for the former Heisman Trophy finalist.
4. Kent State relies on Dru DeShields’ versatility to lead offense
The Golden Flashes arrive in Columbus led by junior quarterback Dru DeShields, who currently leads the team in both passing and rushing yards. DeShields has accounted for 316 yards through the air and 101 yards on the ground, serving as the focal point for a MAC representative that features over 50 Ohioans on its roster.
5. Buckeyes maintain overwhelming historical advantage over Kent State
Ohio State enters the matchup with a perfect 3-0 all-time record against the Golden Flashes, most recently defeating them 66-0 in 2014. The Buckeyes have outscored Kent State by a combined 165-20 in their previous meetings.
