The Ohio State Buckeyes are just days away from their week one matchup against Ball State in Columbus. Here are 3 players who could break out on Saturday. 

Ryan Day and his staff have been working meticulously behind the scenes for this moment, filling roster holes, adapting the game plan, and assessing how each new addition will fit the team. As week one approaches, the Buckeyes will look to these new and returning faces to make an impact against Ball State and hopefully beyond.

Isaiah West

Sophomore running back Isaiah West will look to pick up where he left off last season and shine against Ball State this weekend. West missed all of spring camp due to injury but has looked the part since returning and even spent time with the starting offense ahead of Bo Jackson.

While Bo Jackson is still in a firm position to be the starting running back, Isaiah West should have no problem seeing the field. After putting on an extra 12 pounds this off-season, West is poised to break out this season and should be someone to look out for on Saturday.

West and the rest of the running backs should expect production right off the bat, going into week one with new offensive coordinator Arthur Smith. When asked how he is adjusting to the change, West did not hold back, praising Arthur Smith’s offense. As he gets acclimated to the role, Smith will look to elevate the offense and use his weapons effectively.

Isaiah West says Arthur Smith has brought structure to the Ohio State offense pic.twitter.com/sjCLbbD4p9

— Marcus Hartman (@marcushartman) August 19, 2026

Payton Pierce

Junior linebacker Payton Pierce is poised for a big Saturday as he becomes more comfortable in a starting role. Pierce had a significant jump in production as a sophomore, recording 44 tackles, 1 forced fumble, and 1 interception. He will now look to put it all together in hopes of having a big junior season.

Pierce was selected as one of the team captains for this season and will look to continue showcasing his leadership and play.

“He’s tough and instinctual,” Linebackers coach James Laurinaitis told reporters. “He’s so competitive…he earned the respect of everybody right away his freshman year.”

After losing Arvell Reese and Sonny Styles to the NFL, Laurinaitis will now look to Pierce to step up and become the next great Ohio State linebacker.

James Laurinaitis on Payton Pierce:

🗣️ “He’s tough and instinctual,” Laurinaitis said. “He’s so competitive…he earned the respect of everybody right away his freshman year.”

Laurinaitis expects Pierce to be one of the leaders on defense this season. pic.twitter.com/AwmoEmvMBm

— Blake T. Biscardi (@BlakeBiscardi) April 2, 2026

Devin Sanchez

Devin Sanchez is another sophomore who could shine for the Buckeyes on Saturday. A top recruit in the 2025 class, Sanchez faced criticism throughout his freshman season for inconsistent play. Now, heading into year two, the pressure is on for Sanchez to perform, and the Texas product doesn’t seem fazed, telling reporters he’s going to be one of the best corners in the nation this season.

Standing alongside Jermaine Mathews and possibly Jay Timmons, Sanchez could start the season off right and remind everyone why he was a five-star recruit.

NEXT: Read Ohio State’s Defensive Depth Chart Predictions for 2026 Season