Buckeye Fans Show Rare Restraint: 94% Expect at Least One Ohio State Loss in Brutal 2026 Slate

Iowa football fans take note: Ohio State's 2026 regular season gauntlet is so tough that even the most loyal Buckeye supporters are bracing for a blemish. A new fan survey reveals that 94% of Ohio State respondents expect the team to lose at least one game during the regular season, a striking admission from a fanbase known for its unshakable confidence.

The survey, conducted by Land-Grant Holy Land and SB Nation, asked Buckeye Nation to predict the team's regular season record. The results signal just how daunting the schedule appears, even to the most plugged-in supporters.

What makes Ohio State's 2026 schedule so difficult?

The Buckeyes face six preseason-ranked opponents, including road games at Texas, Indiana, Iowa, and USC, plus home matchups against Oregon and Michigan. The schedule also includes tricky contests against Illinois, Nebraska, and a Northwestern squad now led by offensive coordinator Chip Kelly.

For Iowa fans, the October 10 showdown in Iowa City stands out as a prime opportunity for the Hawkeyes to make a statement. The Buckeyes' visit to Kinnick Stadium under the lights could be a defining moment for both programs.

What record do most Buckeye fans predict?

While the survey didn't break down the exact distribution of predicted records, the overwhelming majority expect at least one loss. The most common predictions likely cluster around 11-1 and 10-2, reflecting the difficulty of navigating such a brutal schedule.

Land-Grant Holy Land's own prediction aligns with the cautious sentiment. The site's writer voted for an 11-1 record, citing faith in what could be the best offense of Ryan Day's tenure while acknowledging the cumulative toll of the schedule.

How does this compare to national expectations?

Despite the caution from Buckeye fans, national college football observers remain high on Ohio State. In a separate SB Nation survey, 42% of respondents picked the Buckeyes to win the Big Ten championship, the highest percentage of any conference team.

By comparison, the Georgia Bulldogs were the top pick in the SEC at 56%, reflecting the perceived gap in parity between the two conferences.

What does this mean for Iowa?

For the Hawkeyes, the survey underscores the magnitude of their home matchup with Ohio State. A win over the Buckeyes would not only boost Iowa's playoff resume but also validate the program's standing among the Big Ten elite.

Iowa head coach Kirk Ferentz and his staff will likely use the national perception of Ohio State as motivation, emphasizing that the Hawkeyes have the home-field advantage and the defensive prowess to pull off an upset.

Why are Buckeye fans more cautious than usual?

The schedule is the obvious answer. Road games at Texas, Indiana, Iowa, and USC are all potential trap games, while home contests against Oregon and Michigan carry enormous weight. The cumulative effect of such a slate can wear down even the most talented teams.

Additionally, Ohio State is breaking in a new defensive coordinator in Matt Patricia, who takes over after Jim Knowles departed for Penn State. While the transfer portal class is strong, maintaining last year's elite defensive standard is no guarantee.

What is the bottom line for Ohio State?

The Buckeyes have the talent to run the table, but the schedule leaves little margin for error. If Ohio State can emerge from the regular season with just one loss, they will almost certainly be in the College Football Playoff conversation.

For Iowa fans, the message is clear: the Hawkeyes have a golden opportunity to shape the national narrative when the Buckeyes come to town.