The Buckeye Weekly Podcast

Did Michigan's Cheating Scandal Enable Texas Tech's Gambling Defiance? | Buckeye Weekly PodcastOn the Buckeye Weekly Podcast, Tony Gerdeman and Tom Orr discuss a listener question arguing that the NCAA's handling of Michigan's Connor Stalions cheating scandal emboldened Texas Tech's defiant response to quarterback Brennan Sorsby's gambling-related rules violation. They compare the schools' approaches, noting Michigan threatened legal action but never went to court, while Texas Tech obtained a Texas judge's injunction blocking the NCAA's suspension attempt and released a 22-minute video defending its position. They argue the NCAA has punished or tried to punish wrongdoing (including fines and individual penalties), but courts and conferences like the Big 12 may shape outcomes, and they explore how conference or College Football Playoff decisions could affect Texas Tech if the situation continues.00:00 Welcome and Setup00:45 Listener Question01:25 Michigan vs Texas Tech02:37 NCAA Teeth and Courts04:00 Shameless PR Defense08:18 Mental Health vs Eligibility09:34 Judge Ruling and Big 1212:05 CFP Fallout Scenarios14:07 Wrap Up and Callouts

In this breaking news episode of Buckeyes TomOrrow Morning, host Tom Orr is joined by Tony Gerdeman to discuss the commitment of Deontay Malone to Ohio State. Malone is one of the top defenders in the state for the 2027 class. They discuss his commitment and what else might be coming down the road. 

Ohio State Linebackers: Mount Rushmore, 2026 Outlook & James Laurinaitis' Future | Time and Change Will Surely ShowTony Gerdeman and Juck Milletti break down Ohio State linebackers by looking at the past, present, and future of the position. They share their personal favorites and build an Ohio State linebacker Mount Rushmore. Tony presents a stats-based linebacker ranking list and they react to overlooked Buckeyes such as Steve Tovar, Matt Wilhelm, and Na'il Diggs. Turning to today's roster, they assess concern levels after losing Sonny Styles and Arvell Reese, projecting roles and tackle leaders for Payton Pierce, Christian Alliegro, TJ Alford, Riley Pettijohn, Garrett Stover, and younger talent. They close by praising Laurinaitis as an elite recruiter and coach, discussing his long-term career path and head-coaching potential, plus roster implications of the proposed “five for five” rule.00:00 Welcome and Topic Setup00:42 Favorite Buckeye Linebackers03:07 Mount Rushmore Picks04:36 Shazier Spotlight07:19 Laurinaitis Tier Debate11:34 Ranking Formula and Stat List13:44 Hidden Gems and Surprises16:15 Build a Dream Linebacker Unit20:04 Recency Bias and Reese Usage23:29 Present Day Linebacker Outlook24:37 Pierce Allegro and Young Depth27:59 Predicting Team Tackle Leaders29:46 TJ vs Riley Roles31:35 Stover and Young Depth35:03 Trust in Coaching35:51 Portal and Snap Management37:41 Five for Five Fallout40:34 Laurinaitis Recruiting Edge44:43 Future Stars at Linebacker47:43 Laurinaitis Career Path55:32 Head Coach Debate59:37 Wrap Up and Thanks

Buckeye Weekly Podcast: 5 Best Ohio State Individual Seasons Since 1990On the Buckeye Weekly Podcast, Tony Gerdeman and Tom Orr answer a listener question about the five best individual seasons by an Ohio State player since 1990, debating standout years across positions. 00:00 Listener Question Setup01:00 J K Dobbins 201902:57 Malik Hooker 201604:35 Orlando Pace Dominance06:51 Vrabel and Chase Young09:06 Dwayne Haskins Record Year12:05 Other Great Seasons13:31 Wrap Up and Callouts

This comes from Friday night's Recruiting Insider show from Juck Milletti on our YouTube page, which you can subsribe to at YouTube.com/@BuckeyeInsiders.-With recent commitments elsewhere, Ohio State's board looks very narrow at several positions. We take a look at each position group.-Why Ohio State will BEAT TENNESSEE-Official visit week number 3 features just 4 uncommitted visitors again and 2 of them are very unlikely. Why so few this year? -The evolving strategy year over year. What Ohio State learned from last years cycle by accident.-THE BEST ranked offensive line class of the decade belongs to Tyler Bowen and the class of 2027

Will Julian Sayin Run More in 2026? Ohio State QB Run Game Debate | Buckeye WeeklyOn the Buckeye Weekly Podcast, hosts Tony Gerdeman and Tom Orr respond to a listener question about Ohio State quarterback Julian Sayin using his legs and whether Ryan Day might force a “square peg into a round hole.” They argue the goal isn't to build the offense around quarterback runs, but to create an implied threat—occasional scrambles or keeps on reads—to make defenses account for the QB and help the run game. They discuss how a few key runs, like Carson Beck's against Ohio State, can swing outcomes, and note Sayin is mobile enough to pick up critical first downs without being a power runner. They also touch on sacks impacting rushing totals, suggest more run reads and selective early-season reps, and speculate on a season-high carries over/under around five.00:00 Weekend Mailbag Intro00:56 Julian Legs Concern02:27 Threat Not Feature05:08 Carson Beck Example10:09 More Reads RPOs11:51 Arthur Smith Run Game13:19 Carries Over Under15:00 Wrap Up Subscribe

In this episode of the Buckeye Weekly Podcast, hosts Tony Gerdeman and Tom Orr discuss the Ohio State special teams, Ryan Day's lack of aggression in this area, and why that could potentially be changing. They also make a couple of picks for some breakout stars on the Buckeye special teams.

In this episode of the Buckeye Weekly Podcast, hosts Tony Gerdeman and Tom Orr give their best effort at predicting every kickoff time and network for the Buckeyes this season.

In this episode of the Buckeye Weekly Podcast, hosts Tony Gerdeman and Tom Orr discuss which players from the Urban Meyer era they'd add to this year's Ohio State football team to best ensure a national title.

In this episode of the Buckeye Weekly Podcast, hosts Tom Orr and Tony Gerdeman pick one Buckeye from the Jim Tressel era that they would add to this year's Ohio State football team in order to best ensure a national title.

Which John Cooper-Era Buckeye Would Guarantee a Title for Ohio State? | Buckeye Weekly PodcastOn the Buckeye Weekly Podcast, Tony Gerdeman and Tom Orr kick off a series revisiting past Ohio State eras by debating which John Cooper-era players they'd add to the current Buckeyes to best ensure a national championship. Both agree Orlando Pace is the obvious top choice and discuss where he'd play on today's offensive line, calling him possibly the best Ohio State player they've ever seen. They then consider other additions, including David Boston alongside Jeremiah Smith and other receivers, plus options like Terry Glenn and Joey Galloway. On defense they highlight Dan “Big Daddy” Wilkinson and discuss adding Antoine Winfield, along with mentions of Shawn Springs and Andy Katzenmoyer. They also float Eddie George at running back, Ricky Dudley at tight end, a return of a fullback, and Mike Vrabel at defensive end, then invite viewer suggestions and promote their YouTube channel and buckeyeinsiders.com.00:00 Welcome and Setup00:52 Orlando Pace No Brainer03:23 Adding David Boston04:58 Glenn or Galloway Debate06:40 Big Daddy in the Middle08:25 Eddie George Power Back09:30 Winfield and Secondary Upgrades11:21 Fullback and Dudley Ideas12:56 Vrabel and Katzenmoyer Fit14:25 Wrap Up and Subscribe

Buckeye Weekly: Texas Judge's Injunction Lets Texas Tech QB Brendan Sorsby Play Despite NCAA Gambling RulesOn the Buckeye Weekly Podcast, Tony Gerdeman and Tom Orr discuss a Texas judge granting Texas Tech quarterback Brendan Sorsby a temporary injunction that allows him to play most of the season despite violating NCAA gambling rules by placing thousands of bets, including on games he could have played in and wagers involving Indiana teammates' unders. They explain that the injunction runs through a trial date set after the season, making an appeal unlikely to resolve matters in time, and argue this creates major integrity concerns and a precedent that undermines accountability. The hosts criticize Texas Tech leadership and booster Cody Campbell, compare statements from Campbell and NCAA president Charlie Baker about the need for congressional action, and contend the NCAA and schools have enabled chaos by resisting an employee/collective bargaining model.00:00 Welcome and Setup00:23 Sorsby Injunction Explained00:48 Why Betting Is the Red Line02:21 How the Appeal Timeline Fails05:28 Consequences and Accountability07:46 Integrity Questions for Texas Tech09:05 Judge Reasoning Under Fire10:55 Coaches Boosters and No Shame16:35 NCAA Congress and Employee Fix22:43 Bigger Picture and Inevitable Fallout27:06 Final Thoughts and Wrap Up

What OSU Needs to Win the National Title: O-Line, Julian Sayin, Run Game & Defense | Buckeye WeeklyOn the Buckeye Weekly Podcast, Tony Gerdeman and Tom Orr discuss results from Tony's Twitter poll asking fans to finish, “Ohio State will win a national championship this year if ___.” The most common response was improved offensive line play (about 55–60%), driven by late-season issues like pass protection and lack of a running game. They also highlight Julian Sayin's ability to make plays, process quickly, and add situational mobility, plus a better running game through broken tackles and incremental improvements from young backs. Defense was a smaller share of answers (about 10–15%), with the view that it only needs to remain close to last year's historically strong standard under Matt Patricia. They also touch on Ryan Day, play-calling, and the addition of Arthur Smith to help address offensive consistency.00:00 Stormy Show Opener00:45 Championship If Question01:56 Offensive Line Top Concern04:01 Julian Sayin Mobility06:33 Running Game Breakthroughs11:21 Defense Expectations15:20 Ryan Day and Arthur Smith19:58 Wrap Up and Subscribe

Buckeye Weekly Podcast: Top 5 Ohio State Football Transfers of All TimeOn the Buckeye Weekly Podcast, hosts Tom Orr and Tony Gerdeman rank the top five transfer additions in Ohio State football history and debate the impact of each, noting that recency bias and missed older names are possible. They discuss Seth McLaughlin's Rimington Award-winning season and Achilles injury, Quinshon Judkins' one-year production and reputation, Julian Sayin's talent and potential to rise higher with more seasons ahead, and some notable others as well. 00:00 Welcome and Setup00:23 Transfer List Criteria01:22 Number Five Picks05:03 Number Four Debate06:26 Will Howard Breakdown09:48 Fields vs Downs Rankings10:03 Justin Fields Impact13:28 Caleb Downs Case16:23 Future Transfer Question17:14 Wrap Up and Subscribe

Will Ohio State Have Another Top-5 Defense in 2026? Buckeye Weekly PodcastOn the Buckeye Weekly Podcast, Tony Gerdeman and Tom Orr discuss whether Ohio State can field another top-five defense this season after losing several high-end, versatile defenders. They note last year's unit was historically great (9.3 points per game, 4.0 yards per play, and no opponent scored 20 defensive points), making a repeat unlikely, especially with a tougher schedule that includes improved offenses like Texas plus high-scoring teams such as USC, Oregon, and Indiana. The hosts expect the defense to remain excellent, citing year two under Matt Patricia, better familiarity with personnel, and the ability to shape roster additions, while acknowledging a more aggressive offense could create shorter fields.00:00 Welcome and Banter00:47 Top Five Defense Question02:44 Why Last Year Was Historic03:57 Patricia Year Two Impact06:29 Schedule Makes It Harder09:33 Roster Depth and New Stars11:45 Predictions 13:50 Wrap Up and Subscriptions

Should Ohio State Have the Big Ten's Best Offense in 2026? Tempo, Efficiency, and a Tougher ScheduleTony Gerdeman and Tom Orr open by promoting Tony's new “Time and Change Will Surely Show” podcast on Buckeye Insiders, then shift to whether Ohio State should have the Big Ten's best offense this season and what could limit it. They discuss how Ohio State's pace has slowed under Ryan Day to reduce wear and injury exposure, making efficiency more important, and note last year's offense dropped to fifth in Big Ten scoring and was only four points per game better than Iowa. With a deeper roster, a veteran quarterback and play-caller, and more challenging games (including trips to Texas, Iowa, Indiana, USC, and Nebraska plus Oregon and Michigan at home), they debate whether OSU must be more aggressive while recognizing stronger defenses may cap the numbers.00:00 Welcome and Banter00:21 New Podcast Announcement01:06 Quarterback Episode Breakdown02:13 Subscribe and Website Launch03:16 Will OSU Lead Big Ten Offense04:06 Tempo Versus Efficiency06:31 Depth and Injury Management07:51 Schedule Forces Aggression10:38 Last Year Scoring Reality Check11:43 Why Offense Improves in 202613:53 Wrap Up and Call to Action

Ranking the Top 10 Big Ten Head Coaches (Who Will Make Fans Mad?) | Buckeye Weekly PodcastOn the Buckeye Weekly Podcast, Tony Gerdeman and Tom Orr rank their top 10 Big Ten head coaches and debate several controversial placements, including P.J. Fleck, Matt Rhule, Jedd Fisch, Bob Chesney, Bret Bielema, and Lincoln Riley. They discuss Kirk Ferentz and Kyle Whittingham as long-tenured, consistently tough coaches, question Riley's postseason results at USC, and evaluate Dan Lanning's Oregon success alongside concerns about recent playoff performances. They compare Ryan Day's sustained achievements at Ohio State with Curt Cignetti's rapid rise and national title at Indiana, emphasizing degree of difficulty. The episode ends with updates on launching a new Ohio State football community at buckeyeinsiders.com and where to follow the show online.00:00 Welcome and Setup00:10 Ranking Criteria and Format00:50 Number 10 03:46 Number 9 06:46 Number 8 10:10 Number 711:32 Number 613:33 Number 5 17:40 Number 4 20:34 Top 3 Debate23:52 Top 2 and Number 127:05 Wrap Up and Plug

This is a brand new podcast with hosts Tony Gerdeman and Juck Milletti talking about the past, present, and future of Ohio State football. You will be able to find it soon on all of your podcast platforms of choice.Ohio State QB Rankings: Top 10 Buckeyes Ever + What's Next for Julian Sayin & Tavien St. Clair | Time and ChangeIn the first episode of The Time and Change Will Surely Show, Tony Gerdeman and Juck Milletti launch their Ohio State-focused podcast by examining Buckeye quarterbacks across past, present, and future, including childhood QB memories and a stats-based formula that ranks J.T. Barrett No. 1 historically. They reveal and debate their personal top-10 lists, while discussing legacies of players like Terrelle Pryor, Dwayne Haskins, Braxton Miller, Cardale Jones, and Will Howard. They then project where Julian Sayin could land with another season and how a national title would change his standing, evaluate Tavien St. Clair's long-term upside, and discuss future QB recruiting, including Brady Edmunds' UCLA visit and Ohio State's pursuit of another 2026 quarterback such as Nebraska commit Trae Taylor.00:00 Show Intro and Format01:00 First QB Memories01:42 QB Ranking Formula03:58 Starting the Top 1004:17 Hoying vs Germaine06:02 JT Barrett Legacy07:45 Pryor and Cardale Debate10:31 Will Howard Surprise Season13:27 Braxton Miller Breakdown15:31 Top Five Pryor Case21:07 Number Four22:09 Number Three25:27 Number Two 28:20 Number One30:54 Julian Sayin Top 10 Case36:09 Up Tempo Offense Fit37:46 Tavien St. Clair Projection39:58 Should Sayin Return44:22 Brady Edmunds Recruiting Rift48:16 Trae Taylor Flip Talk53:04 Portal Era QB Strategy55:26 Wrap Up And Subscribe

Jeremiah Smith Record Watch: Predicting When Ohio State's Receiving Marks FallOn the Buckeye Weekly Podcast, Tony Gerdeman and Tom Orr launch a “Jeremiah Smith Record Watch,” debating which Ohio State receiving records Smith is likely to break and when. They track his pace toward the career receptions mark (205), career receiving yards record (2,898), career TD catches record (35), and career 100-yard games record (15), with Tom offering specific game predictions (including USC, Iowa, Oregon, and Northwestern) and Tony frequently countering with Indiana or Illinois. They also discuss season records for receptions (95) and receiving yards (1,606). The episode closes with plugs for the new Buckeye Insiders YouTube channel and buckeyeinsiders.com.00:00 Welcome and Setup01:15 Record Watch Begins01:43 Career Receptions Chase03:29 Career Receiving Yards05:56 Career TD Catches08:15 100 Yard Games Record10:36 Single Season Receptions15:19 Single Season Yardage Debate17:37 Single Season TD Record19:57 Other Records and Wrap21:45 Subscribe and Sign Off

Buckeye Weekly Podcast: The 5 Most Indispensable Buckeyes This SeasonOn the Buckeye Weekly Podcast, Tony Gerdeman and Tom Orr share updates on the show's new home at Buckeye Insiders (YouTube and buckeyeinsiders.com) before discussing which Ohio State players the team can't afford to lose this season. Using a back-and-forth format, they agree on their top five, emphasizing the roster drop-off behind each and the difficulty of relying on younger or less proven replacements. They also highlight the importance of special teams, naming kicker Connor Hawkins (and mentioning punter Joe McGuire) as potential difference-makers in a schedule expected to produce multiple close games, and they invite audience feedback on who else belongs on the list.00:00 Welcome and New Home01:33 Indispensable Buckeyes Setup02:31 Cant Lose Jeremiah Smith04:41 Quarterback Julian Sayin07:14 Player Number Three09:34 Player Number Four12:04 Player Number Five13:32 Kicker Connor Hawkins15:20 Wrap Up and Callouts

Eric Weddle Says Bryce Underwood Can't Play QB?! | Buckeye Weekly Podcast (Michigan Monday)On this Michigan Monday episode, Tony Gerdeman and Tom Orr announce they are no longer with Buckeye Huddle and will be moving their coverage to BuckeyeInsiders.com while continuing the show on YouTube and podcast. They then react to former NFL safety Eric Weddle's comments after attending a Michigan spring practice, where Weddle said he didn't think quarterback Bryce Underwood could throw or play the position and suggested the backup might play early. Tony and Tom discuss how unusual and strong the take is based on a single practice, how spring performances can mislead, and why it may reflect more on the speaker than the player. They note Underwood's true freshman struggles and need for development, coaching changes, motivation concerns tied to NIL money, and why it's too early to declare his era over.00:00 Welcome and Setup00:38 Personal News New Home01:26 Weddle Quote Sparks Debate03:14 One Practice Overreaction05:52 Underwood Development Concerns07:58 NIL Motivation and Coaching12:18 Freshman QB Growing Pains16:17 Is The Era Over16:42 Subscribe and Wrap Up

In this episode of the Buckeye Weekly Podcast, hosts Tony Gerdeman and Tom Orr share an update on their time with Buckeye Huddle ending and the future at BuckeyeInsiders.com. 

Reimagining Ohio State's 2011 Season Without Tatgate: Pryor, Tressel, and a Possible Title RunOn the Buckeye Weekly Podcast, Tony Gerdeman and Tom Orr revisit Ohio State's 2011 season and reimagine it without Tatgate, suspensions, departures, and with Jim Tressel still coaching a roster featuring senior Terrelle Pryor and freshman Braxton Miller. They walk through the schedule, arguing several losses—Miami, Michigan State, Nebraska (after Miller's ankle injury), Purdue (missed extra point), Penn State, and Michigan—could have flipped with better quarterback play, coaching continuity, and a full roster, potentially leading to a Big Ten title game and even a BCS National Championship opportunity against LSU. They discuss how ugly many 2011 games were, key turning points like the Nebraska collapse and the Wisconsin Hail Mary, and how NIL-era legality changes the lens on the scandal.00:00 Welcome Buckeye Weekly00:39 Why Revisit 201101:18 No Tatgate What If02:09 Akron Toledo Tuneups02:44 Miami Disaster Reframed06:38 Colorado And Sparty Ugly08:45 Nebraska Collapse Meme11:24 Legends Leaders Trivia13:22 Illinois Zook Upset14:26 Wisconsin Hail Mary Classic17:10 Purdue Penn State Rancid19:45 Michigan Heartbreaker22:15 Big Ten Title Path22:37 LSU BCS Toss Up26:35 Tatgate Legacy Today27:17 Wrap Up And Subscribe

Buckeye Weekly Podcast: Top 10 Ohio State Players of the Jim Tressel EraOn the Buckeye Weekly Podcast, Tony Gerdeman and Tom Orr mark nearly 15 years since Jim Tressel left Ohio State by time-traveling from the Ryan Day and Urban Meyer eras to rank the top 10 players of the Tressel era in no particular order. They reference fan responses from Twitter, debate key criteria and legacy context, and build their list. 00:00 Welcome and premise01:04 Rules and draft format02:06 Twitter poll guesses04:18 Pick 105:35 Pick 2 and 310:43 Pick 415:00 Pick 517:00 Pick 620:00 Pick 722:29 Pick 826:27 Pick 929:59 Pick 1034:10 Results and honorable mentions36:52 Wrap up and next show

Blind Ranking Ohio State's Greatest One-Season Wonders | Buckeye Weekly PodcastOn the Buckeye Weekly Podcast, hosts Tony Gerdeman and Tom Orr joke about Tom's favorite types of Buckeye Weekly episodes before Tony has Tom blind-rank Ohio State football's best one-season “one-hit wonders.” Tony reveals six names one at a time and Tom must place each without knowing who's next, debating whether to judge by impact or raw statistics.00:00 Welcome and Setup00:26 Blind Ranking the Shows01:34 One Season Wonders Rules02:16 Player Number One03:27 Player Number Two05:30 Player Number Three07:54 Player Number Four10:21 Player Number Five13:17 Player Number Six17:16 Wrap Up and Subscribe

Which Ohio State Assistant Coach Will Have the Biggest Impact in 2026? | Buckeye Weekly PodcastOn the Buckeye Weekly Podcast, Tony Gerdeman and Tom Orr discuss which Ohio State assistant coach will have the biggest impact on the Buckeyes reaching their ceiling this season. The most common pick is new offensive coordinator Arthur Smith, with the hosts focusing on his experience as a play caller and the potential for a step forward from last year's offense. They also highlight offensive line coach Tyler Bowen and the importance of improved line play, running backs coach Carlos Locklyn's challenge developing a young backfield, and first-year wide receivers coach Cortez Hankton's need to build production beyond Jeremiah Smith. Defensive coordinator Matt Patricia is mentioned as a factor again despite major personnel losses, and special teams coach Robby Discher is discussed in light of punt rule changes that could increase blocked punts.00:00 Welcome and Tressel Day00:52 Biggest Assistant Impact01:32 Arthur Smith Boost04:20 Fixing the O Line06:05 Young Backs and WR Room08:03 Patricia Repeatable Defense10:49 Special Teams and Punt Rule13:56 Wrap Up and Callouts

Breaking News: Top-100 DE Wyatt Smith Commits to Ohio State | Buckeye Weekly PodcastOn the Buckeye Weekly Podcast, Tony Gerdeman and Tom Orr react to breaking recruiting news that top-100 defensive end Wyatt Smith has committed to Ohio State. They describe Smith as a long, 6'6", 235–240-pound edge rusher from St. Thomas Aquinas in South Florida, ranked No. 78 nationally in the 247 Composite, No. 11 at edge, and No. 9 in Florida, and note he joins committed defensive end DJ Jacobs to give the Buckeyes two top-100 prospects at a premium position. They discuss Larry Johnson's continued recruiting and development track record, Smith's NFL bloodlines as the son of former Bengals All-Pro Justin Smith, and Smith's production last season (155 tackles, 24 TFL, 33 hurries, 13 sacks, two forced fumbles, two recoveries in 15 games), plus how Ohio State prefers freshmen to have opportunity rather than immediate need.00:00 Podcast Intro and Alert00:33 Wyatt Smith Commits01:57 Why Edge Recruiting Matters02:47 Larry Johnson Development Pitch04:36 Film and Production Breakdown06:40 NFL Legacy and Recruiting Angle08:06 Roster Outlook and Freshman Roles09:38 Opportunity Versus Need11:33 Wrap Up and Call to Action

Buckeye Weekly Draft: 6 Ohio State Players Poised to Be First-Team All-Big TenOn the Buckeye Weekly Podcast, hosts Tony Gerdeman and Tom Orr do a snake draft of six returning Ohio State players they think will become first-team All-Big Ten this season, excluding transfers and anyone who was first- or second-team last year (Julian Sayin, Bo Jackson, Jeremiah Smith, Luke Montgomery, and Austin Siereveld).00:00 Welcome and Draft Rules01:20 Ineligible All-Big Ten Names01:57 Pick 1 03:20 Picks 2-3 05:41 Tom Pick 07:08 Tom Steals 09:39 Tony Recovers 12:03 Other Candidates and Wrap-Up

Buckeye Stat Projection Game: Matching Past OSU Seasons to 2026 PlayersOn the Buckeye Weekly Podcast, hosts Tony Gerdeman and Tom Orr play a game where Tony presents stat lines from past Ohio State players and Tom must project which current Buckeye could post those numbers in 2026, then guess the original Buckeye who produced them. They discuss rushing, defensive, and receiving lines, with projections involving players like Isaiah West, Legend Bey, Earl Little, Devin McCuin, and more. 00:00 Welcome and Game Setup01:42 Rushing Stat Projection04:21 Guessing the Past Rusher05:44 Defensive Stat Projection08:42 Revealing the Past Defender09:49 Interception Season Challenge13:51 Receiver Yards No TDs18:40 Deep Threat Stat Line22:26 Legend Bey/Dontre Wilson Comparison24:24 Wrap Up and Subscribe

Most Impactful Ohio State Transfer in 2026?  | Buckeye Weekly PodcastOn the Buckeye Weekly Podcast, Tony Gerdeman and Tom Orr discuss which Ohio State transfer could be the most impactful this season, using 2024 examples like Caleb Downs and Will Howard to frame the conversation. Tony leans toward safety Earl Little due to the defense's plans for him and the versatility he could bring, while Tom highlights kicker Connor Hawkins as a potentially decisive difference-maker in close games. They also run through other transfer candidates and roles, including James Smith, Terry Moore, Devin McCuin, Kyle Parker, Qua Russaw, Dom Kelly, Mason Williams, Hunter Welcing, Ja'Kobi Jackson, John Walker, Justyn Martin, and long snapper Dalton Riggs, emphasizing how impact can come from both star plays and critical special-teams reliability.00:00 Podcast Cold Open00:53 Defining Impactful Transfers02:10 Best 2024 Transfers03:33 Earl Little Spotlight06:18 Kicker Connor Hawkins08:53 Other Transfer Candidates10:01 Receiver Gravity Talk12:37 Qua Russaw Role14:11 More Names and Scenarios15:22 Long Snapper Importance16:46 Wrap Up and Thanks

Ohio State Kickoff Times: Big Noon Picks, TV Draft Tea Leaves & Schedule SpeculationOn the Buckeye Weekly Podcast, Tony Gerdeman and Tom Orr discuss early TV time/network announcements and what they suggest about Ohio State's 2026 schedule. They note Ohio State–Michigan is set for noon on Fox and Oklahoma–Michigan is also a noon Fox game, then explain Fox drafts weeks (not individual games) and likely used three top picks on Week 13 (Michigan), Week 2 (Oklahoma at Michigan), and Oct. 17 (Ohio State at Indiana). They speculate that Ohio State–Oregon likely won't be Big Noon and could land at 3:30 on CBS, discuss how Notre Dame NBC windows, Big Ten Network obligations, and potential Peacock decisions affect placements, and project possibilities for early nonconference games, Texas in primetime, and Ohio State at Nebraska likely earlier to set up Michigan week.00:00 Welcome and Setup01:03 Big Noon Picks Explained01:55 Fox Week Draft Mystery03:50 Ohio State Oregon Time Guess04:46 Other Marquee Games06:20 Early Season Kickoffs08:38 Network Obligations Peacock10:39 More Schedule Clues Ahead12:47 Midseason Game Time Projections15:28 November Nights Nebraska18:23 Wrap Up and Subscribe

How NCAA's ‘Five Years to Play Five' Rule Could Reshape Ohio State's 2027 Roster | Buckeye WeeklyTony Gerdeman and Tom Orr discuss a pending NCAA rule that would allow players five years of eligibility to play five seasons and how it could impact Ohio State's 2027 roster by potentially keeping 2026 true seniors for an extra year. They run through possible returnees—WRs Devin McCuin and Brandon Innis, TE Mason Williams, LG Luke Montgomery, DT James Smith, LB Christian Allegro, and CB Jermaine Matthews—debating draft projections, NIL tradeoffs, positional needs, and whether retaining veterans could replace portal additions. They highlight the value of continuity and frame the change as a way to re-sign in-house “free agents” before turning to the portal.00:00 Welcome Back Banter01:22 NCAA Five Years Rule02:43 Wide Receiver Decisions06:43 Tight End Return Case09:22 Luke Montgomery O Line13:18 James Smith D Line16:18 Christian Alliegro Outlook20:28 Jermaine Mathews Debate23:17 Portal Style Roster Building26:12 Wrap Up And Subscribe

In this episode of Buckeye Huddle Primetime, host Juck Milletti shares some recruiting updates on a handful of high-value targets, and then discusses the Ohio State freshman class and how they fared this spring and the expectations for this season.

Buckeye Weekly Podcast: What Will More QB Run Look Like for Ohio State in 2026?On this episode of the Buckeye Weekly Podcast, hosts Tony Gerdeman and Tom Orr answer a listener question about what “more QB run” should look like for Ohio State this year, focusing on Julian Sayin. They discuss the importance of quarterbacks contributing on the ground—especially rushing for at least one touchdown—and how even a few timely scrambles or option pulls can extend drives, help in short-yardage and goal-line situations, and force defenses to account for the quarterback. They compare recent Ohio State quarterback rushing production (including sack-adjusted stats) to players like CJ Stroud, Kyle McCord, and Will Howard, reference examples like Dwayne Haskins, and debate realistic season highs, single-game rushing yard projections, touchdown totals, and a 200-yard season benchmark.00:00 Welcome and Listener Questions00:41 What More QB Run Means02:27 Touchdowns and the Threat Factor04:20 Strategic Use vs Texas05:49 Last Season Rushing Context06:49 Comparing QBs and Carry Limits09:30 Haskins Example and Attempt Targets11:04 Over Unders and Predictions14:05 Wrap Up and Subscribe

Can Ohio State's Defense Still Be Elite After Losing NFL Draft Stars? | Buckeye Weekly PodcastOn the Buckeye Weekly Podcast, Tony Gerdeman and Tom Orr kick off “listener question season” by answering whether Ohio State's defense can make its own mark after major NFL Draft departures from last year's historic unit. They discuss the challenge of matching a program-best standard while noting Ohio State recently lost eight defensive starters to the draft and then seven more, yet still has the talent and coaching continuity to remain near last year's level. They highlight how unexpected breakouts (like Arvell Reese and Kayden McDonald) can happen again, point to potential risers such as Kenyatta Jackson, and emphasize the transfer portal's role in replacing starters with experienced players, including additions like Qua Russaw, James Smith, John Walker, Christian Alliegro, and Earl Little. They also expect schematic adjustments and possibly more aggressive, higher-variance play in 2026.00:00 Listener Question Season01:00 Can This Defense Match 202502:31 Next Breakout Stars04:04 Portal Depth and Projection06:51 Roster Management Reality08:33 New Scheme and Creativity10:57 Final Take and Wrap Up

Ohio State Injury Updates + Ryan Day on Mental Health | Buckeye Weekly PodcastOn the Buckeye Weekly podcast, Tony Gerdeman and Tom Orr discuss Ryan Day's update that Ohio State players who missed spring with various injuries and procedures (including issues like labrums and meniscus) are expected to be healed in time to have full summers, emphasizing how crucial summer work is for preparing for fall camp, especially for offensive linemen and running backs. They note spring is the right time to be cautious and get nagging issues cleaned up, while also highlighting the need for a mental break after spring ball. The conversation shifts to Day's children's mental health initiatives with Nina Day through the Kids Mental Health Foundation, including an event in New Hampshire focused on improving access, reducing stigma, and building resiliency, with encouragement for philanthropy and broader national expansion.00:00 Welcome and Big Update00:27 Spring Injuries Healing Timeline01:33 Summer Work Matters Most02:11 O Line and RBs Getting Reps04:28 Legend Bay Development Plan06:29 Recovery and Avoiding Lingering Issues07:17 Mental Breaks and Player Wellness09:07 Kids Mental Health Foundation Event10:07 Access and Ending the Stigma13:57 Wrap Up and Subscribe

Buckeyes Go 4 in Round 1 of the 2026 NFL Draft + Ryan Day on Being “NFL Ready”On the Buckeye Weekly Podcast, Tony Gerdeman and Tom Orr discuss Ohio State's 2026 NFL Draft first-round results and what Ryan Day said in a Zoom about the Buckeyes being “pro ready.” They react to four first-round picks—Carnell Tate going fourth overall to the Titans (a surprise as the first Buckeye taken), Arvell Reese to the Giants, Sonny Styles to the Commanders, and Caleb Downs to the Cowboys—and explain how Ohio State's day-to-day competition, media pressure, and NFL-style schemes help players transition seamlessly to the league. They highlight Reese's upside and versatility, Styles' maturity and community involvement, and Downs as a near “sure shot” despite size concerns. The hosts also connect Ohio State's draft success to recruiting momentum and note the program's historic draft production by position.00:00 Draft Night Kickoff00:46 Buckeyes Go Pro Ready03:43 Arvell Reese Breakdown04:57 Sonny Styles Spotlight08:02 Carnell Tate Surprise08:41 Caleb Downs Steal13:05 Recruiting Impact Angle13:43 NFL Style Development17:23 Position Dominance Stats18:24 Quarterback History Talk19:24 Wrap Up And Thanks

Buckeye Weekly Draft Day: Which Big Ten Stars Would We Add to Ohio State in 2026?On NFL Draft day, Buckeye Weekly hosts Tony Gerdeman and Tom do a hypothetical “draft” where Ohio State can add any Big Ten players to the 2026 roster. They target some of the Big Ten's best, as well as some new faces as well.00:00 Welcome and Draft Day Setup01:10 Rules and Draft Strategy03:15 Pick One06:19 Pick Two08:33 Interior Line Luxury Picks11:39 More Targets and O Line Ideas13:24 Freshmen and Tight End Options16:18 Wrap Up and Viewer Picks

Which New Buckeyes Surprised Us Most This Spring? | Buckeye Weekly PodcastOn the Buckeye Weekly podcast, Tony Gerdeman and Tom discuss which new Ohio State players surprised them most during spring practice, focusing on one true freshman and one transfer each. They highlight freshman wide receiver Brock Boyd for losing his black stripe extremely early and flashing as a versatile playmaker, and Tony notes freshman center Mason Wilhelm as an unexpected early contributor with the twos and threes, with mentions of freshman tackle Sam Greer and running back Favour Akih also looking more ready than expected. For transfers, Tom points to defensive back Earl Little for immediate impact, based on an early black stripe removal and strong reviews from teammates and coaches despite missing late spring due to a knee procedure. They also discuss transfer corner Dominick Kelly pushing for a rotation role and Alabama defensive line transfers James Smith and Qua Russaw carving out roles, with Russaw drawing praise for holding up vs. the run.00:00 Welcome and Setup00:57 Freshman Surprise Brock Boyd04:11 Underrated Center Mason Wilhelm06:09 Sam Greer and RB Favour Akih08:50 Transfer Standout Earl Little11:57 Dominick Kelly and Bama DL Adds15:51 Wrap Up and Subscribe

In this episode of the Buckeye Weekly Podcast, hosts Tony Gerdeman and Tom Orr share their thoughts after watching the 2026 Michigan Spring Game. They discuss quarterback Bryce Underwood's underwhelming performance, the possibility of a quarterback battle with freshman Tommy Carr, a pair of very talented running backs, some new names defensively, and more.

In this episode of the Buckeye Weekly Podcast, hosts Tony Gerdeman and Tom Orr recap what they learned from rewatching the Ohio State spring game. Thoughts on Jeremiah Smith, Chris Henry, Jr., a handful of transfers and true freshmen and much, much else.

In this episode of the Buckeye Weekly Podcast, hosts Tony Gerdeman and Tom Orr give their instant reactions from the Ohio State spring game. Thoughts on Chris Henry, Jr., Dominick Kelly, Tavien St. Clair, the running of Julian Sayin, and much, much more.