Ohio State enters the 2026 season as the No. 1 team in the country with a loaded offense and a star quarterback in Julian Sayin. But one of the most successful coaches in Buckeyes history is warning that a familiar powerhouse could spoil the party.
Urban Meyer, who won a national championship at Ohio State, says the Buckeyes are his pick to win it all, but he sees Notre Dame as the biggest threat to Ryan Day's squad.
Meyer: Notre Dame Has Everything Pointing in the Right Direction
Speaking on The Triple Option podcast, Meyer explained why he believes the Fighting Irish are poised to make a serious run.
“I'm going to go with Ohio State, but I'll tell you that Notre Dame team, Mark, I know you picked them. Everything's pointing. Here's what I love about Notre Dame right now: that administration. They got a great coaching staff, a great head coach. They have great football players and, by the way, have the best college football facility in America,” Meyer said.
Meyer made it clear that his confidence in Ohio State comes with a condition.
“So if they stay healthy, I pick the Buckeyes. If someone gets dinged, I'm going to go to Notre Dame,” Meyer said.
Injuries Derailed Ohio State in 2025
Meyer's warning is grounded in recent history. Ohio State posted a perfect 12-0 regular season record in 2025 before injuries caught up with the team in the postseason.
The Buckeyes stumbled against Indiana and Miami after wide receivers Carnell Tate and Jeremiah Smith were banged up. The offensive line also suffered depth issues, and the results showed on the field.
Ohio State allowed just six sacks through its first 12 games, then gave up five sacks in the loss to Indiana and five more against Miami.
Brutal Schedule Awaits the Buckeyes
Meyer also acknowledged that Ohio State's path to a title this year is far from easy.
“This is the toughest schedule they've had in a bit,” Meyer said.
The Buckeyes open with No. 5 Texas in Austin in Week 2, then travel to face Iowa, Indiana, and USC in October. They host Oregon on Nov. 7 and close the regular season against arch-rival Michigan.
For Iowa fans, the Oct. 10 matchup in Iowa City looms large as a potential statement game for the Hawkeyes against the nation's top team.
Offense Loaded, Defense in Rebuild Mode
Ohio State's strength is undeniable on offense. Jeremiah Smith and Julian Sayin lead a unit that returns four of five offensive line starters: Austin Siereveld, Luke Montgomery, Carson Hinzman, and Phillip Daniels.
The defense, however, is a different story. The Buckeyes must replace 11 players selected in the NFL Draft, including standouts Arvell Reese, Sonny Styles, and Caleb Downs.
Defensive coordinator Matt Patricia faces a massive rebuilding job, and the unit may need time to gel. That uncertainty, combined with a new offensive coordinator in Arthur Smith, could leave Ohio State vulnerable early in the season.
The Buckeyes' trip to Austin to face a Texas team seeking redemption after a Week 1 loss in 2025 will be an immediate test.
What This Means for the College Football Playoff Picture
Meyer's assessment adds intrigue to an already loaded season. Notre Dame has invested heavily in its program, and the Fighting Irish appear ready to challenge the established powers.
Ohio State remains the favorite, but the margin for error is razor thin. One key injury could shift the balance of power and open the door for Notre Dame to claim its first national title since 1988.
For now, the Buckeyes control their own destiny. But Meyer's blunt warning serves as a reminder that in college football, nothing is guaranteed.