Ohio State enters the 2026–27 season at No. 22 in the S³ Preseason Top 25, carrying expectations of a successful regular season but plenty of questions about its ability to advance in March.
Following a 21–13 campaign that ended with a first-round NCAA Tournament loss to TCU, head coach Jake Diebler enters his third full season looking to establish the Buckeyes as a consistent national contender.
The offensive potential is encouraging. The defense, nevertheless, could determine whether Ohio State wins an NCAA Tournament game or makes another early exit.
A New Offensive Identity
With Bruce Thornton departing, John Mobley Jr. assumes greater offensive responsibility.
The addition of California transfer Justin Pippen provides another playmaking option, while highly regarded freshman Anthony Thompson brings additional scoring potential and athleticism.
Returning forward Amare Bynum gives Ohio State another offensive contributor.
The Buckeyes have enough weapons to compete with quality opponents. Developing chemistry and establishing a dependable offensive rotation will be critical.
Defense Remains the Question
S³ views defensive consistency as Ohio State's biggest question. The concern isn't necessarily its ability to score. It's whether the Buckeyes can consistently prevent opponents from scoring.
Interior defense, rebounding and defensive execution will become increasingly important against the physical competition awaiting them in the Big Ten.
Josh Ojianwuna, who missed the entire 2025–26 season while recovering from knee surgery, could provide much-needed interior stability.
Nevertheless, until Ohio State establishes itself defensively, projecting a deep postseason run would be premature.
A Challenging Road Ahead
Ohio State's schedule features several important tests, including BYU, UConn, Vanderbilt and Kansas during nonconference competition.
The Buckeyes will also face Illinois, Purdue, Michigan State and Michigan during Big Ten play.
These matchups will reveal whether Ohio State belongs among the nation's stronger programs or remains a talented but inconsistent team.
S³ Season Projection
| Category | Prediction |
|---|---|
| S³ Ranking | #22 |
| Regular Season | 22–10 |
| Nonconference | 10–2 |
| Big Ten | 12–8 |
| NCAA Tournament | First-weekend team |
| First-Round Elimination | Real possibility |
| Ceiling | Sweet 16 |
| Biggest Concern | Defensive consistency |
S³ Final Word
Ohio State has enough offensive talent to put together a good regular season. Nevertheless, being ranked No. 22 does not guarantee postseason success.
The Buckeyes could win their opening NCAA Tournament matchup and advance to the Round of 32. They could just as easily find themselves heading home after one game if their defensive weaknesses become a liability.
A Sweet 16 appearance would represent Ohio State exceeding its preseason expectations.
S³ Prediction: 22–10. NCAA Tournament appearance, with a first-round exit a legitimate possibility.
Ohio State must prove it can do more than score. It must prove it can win when the stakes are highest.
