Ryan Day's 3 Must-Win Games Include Trip to Iowa

Ohio State football coach Ryan Day is facing a make-or-break 2026 season, and a late-season trip to Iowa City could play a major role in deciding his fate. Fox Sports analyst Joel Klatt warned that the Buckeyes cannot afford losses against Texas, Indiana, or Michigan if they want to reach the College Football Playoff.

Why the Texas rematch sets the tone for Ohio State

Klatt pointed to the September 12 road trip to Texas as the first major hurdle. Arch Manning returns for his fourth year, seeking revenge after Ohio State beat the Longhorns at home last season. Klatt explained that both Day and Texas coach Steve Sarkisian understand the weight of this rematch, with both teams expected to start the season ranked in the top five.