Episode Details

Ohio State Buckeyes kick off Big Ten play against Illinois Fighting Illini with critical questions at running back and offensive line. Can Ryan Day's squad finally ignite the run game and clean up red zone efficiency to dominate an Illinois defense ranked outside the top 75? Matt Fontana and Justin Zwick spotlight Katin Hauser’s arm, Collin Dixon’s impact, and whether OSU’s defense can ramp up its pass rush against a rebuilt Illini offensive front.

Key storylines include third-down struggles, offensive line chemistry changes, and the Buckeyes’ quest to turn backfield promise into explosive gains. The duo also breaks down the storied Illibuck trophy, its bizarre turtle origins, and Ohio State’s nine-game winning streak in the series. Will Ohio State cover the spread and build momentum for a playoff push, or could Illinois’ new-look offense test Buckeye resolve in the Shoe?

Episode Timestamps

• 00:00 - Ohio State vs. Illinois Preview
  Introduction; Ohio State's Big Ten opener, questions to address, initial thoughts from Matt Fontana and Justin Zwick.
• 02:31 - Illinois' Offense & Key Players
  Breakdown of Illinois' offensive strengths, discussion of quarterback Keaton Hauser, Colin Dixon, and concerns about Ohio State’s defense.
• 13:24 - Keys to the Game & Illibuck Trophy
  Matt Fontana and Justin Zwick outline keys for Ohio State: red zone, third downs, running backs, offensive line, pass rush, and linebackers. Plus, the history and story of the Illibuck trophy.

Follow the show on twitter: https://x.com/LOBuckeyes

Photo credit: Adam Cairns via Imagn Images

Everydayer Club
If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub

Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!

KALSHI
For a limited time, Download Kalshi and use code Locked On to get $25 when you trade $25. Kalshi. Trade what’s next. 
 

SupplyHouse
Visit https://SupplyHouse.com/TM to learn more about becoming a Trade Master.  Use promo code S H 5 College for five percent off your first order.  
SupplyHouse. Real people. Real service. 

Odoo
Great organizations win because operations matter. And that’s why you should get Odoo. Try for free today at https://Odoo.com/lockedon.
 

Square
Get up to $200 off Square hardware when you sign up at https://square.com/go/COLLEGE ! #squarepod
 

LARINECO
Give Larine a try. Right now, Larine Co is offering our listeners up to 50% off at https://BUYLARINE.com/LOCKEDONCOLLEGE. 

5-Hour ENERGY
Bring on the sweetness with Cotton Candy 5-hour ENERGY®️ shots—available online now at https:/5hourENERGY.com or on Amazon. 

Gametime
Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, cre