How to watch Ohio State football game Live Online
COLUMBUS, Ohio - After eight months to stew on an early College Football Playoff loss, Ohio State football opens the 2026 season against the Ball State Cardinals today – Saturday, Sept. 5 – at Ohio Stadium in Columbus, Ohio.
How to watch Ohio State football vs. Ball State today
What: Ohio State vs. Ball State
When: Saturday, Sept. 5, 2026
Time: 12:30 p.m. Eastern
Where: Ohio Stadium | Columbus, Ohio
Channel: Big Ten Network
Streaming options: DIRECTV (free trial and $35 off your first month), FuboTV (free trial and $25 off your first month) and SlingTV
How do I watch Ohio State vs. Ball State for free?
This matchup will broadcast live on Big Ten Network at 12:30 p.m. Eastern. You can take advantage of free trials from DIRECTV and FuboTV, which also offer large discounts on your first month.
You can watch this game on Sling TV with multiple packages, starting at $19.99 with Sling Select paired with the $11.99 sports add-on. Sling Select also includes FS1 and features local channels in select markets.
Here five storylines to watch for today’s game:
1. Ohio State reloads with 50 new players and new offensive coordinator
The Buckeyes are entering the season with a massive influx of talent and new offensive coordinator following their Cotton Bowl exit. Heisman contenders Sayin and Smith lead a squad of 50 newcomers that must adapt to Arthur Smith’s offense after the departure of legendary receivers coach Brian Hartline to USF.
2. Freshmen standouts and versatile starters emerge during training camp
Breakout freshmen Chris Henry Jr. and Brock Boyd have dazzled coaches enough to earn spots in the rotation for the season opener. The team will also lean on Legend Bay for double duty as both a running back and starting kickoff returner, while Jay Timmons is expected to secure the starting nickel role.