Ohio State Aims for 40+ PPG Despite Tough Schedule

Why 40 Points per Game Is a Modern Challenge

The playoff expansion has stretched the season for top teams, making it harder to maintain elite scoring averages. Adding extra games dilutes per‑game statistics, and the 2023 clock‑running rule means offenses must score on more possessions. Historically, averaging 40 points was more common, but today even champion squads like Indiana (41.6 ppg in 2025) stand out. Ohio State’s recent peaks—44.2 ppg in 2022 versus 33.4 ppg in 2025—show how the landscape has shifted.

Compounding the difficulty is Ohio State’s 2026 slate, ranked the eighth‑hardest in the nation. Road trips to Texas, Indiana and USC, plus home games against Illinois, Oregon and Michigan, set up a stiff test. Yet the Buckeyes believe their roster can meet the challenge and push past the 40‑point barrier.

Explosive Offensive Backfield

Julian Sayin’s poise and quick decision‑making pair perfectly with Jeremiah Smith’s generational talent, creating one of college football’s most dynamic duos. Sayin’s accuracy and Smith’s speed let Ohio State strike quickly, helping offset the clock‑running rule by shortening drives. Even without Carnell Tate, the depth at the position stays strong.

Brandon Inniss, freshman phenom Chris Henry Jr. and transfer Kyle Parker give the Buckeyes insurance when opponents try to double‑team Smith. Spreading the field forces defenses to bite, opening up big‑play opportunities elsewhere. The offensive line should also be a pillar, anchored by left tackle Austin Siereveld, who allowed just 15 pressures last season.

Line’s Continuity and Depth

Austin Siereveld returns to protect Sayin’s blind side, joining veterans Carson Hinzman, Luke Montgomery and Philip Daniels. Ian Moore impressed at spring camp and looks set to claim the fifth starting spot. This depth signals a solid pocket for the quarterback, a key ingredient for any high‑scoring attack.

The continuity on the line serves as a strong indicator that the unit will be ready to open up running lanes and give Sayin time to find the end zone. A secure pass protection unit can keep drives alive, allowing the offense to rack up yards and points.

Elite Defense, Full‑Game Pressure

Ohio State’s defense enters the season ranked No. 1 nationally, despite losing three key players to the NFL draft (Arvell Reese, Sonny Styles and Caleb Downs). Coordinator Matt Patricia has filled gaps with home‑grown talent and transfer portal additions. The schedule’s difficulty means Coach Ryan Day likely won’t get the luxury of resting starters late in games.

Against Texas, Indiana and similar high‑octane offenses, the starters will be on the field the entire contest. Patricia’s unit should force quick three‑and‑outs, giving the offense more chances to inflate the scoreboard.

Special Teams Upgrade

Last year’s kicking game was a weak link; Jayden Fielding missed four field goals, including a painful 27‑yard miss in the Big Ten Championship. A 49‑yard attempt that would have tied his career long left the Buckeyes scoreless at halftime versus Miami.

Now Connor Hawkins, a Baylor transfer, takes over. His career long of 54 yards and higher long‑range reliability make him a solid replacement. Hawkins has matched Fielding’s miss total but with more attempts, suggesting better consistency for a program that can ill afford short fields.

Schedule Snapshot

• Home openers vs. Ball State and Kent State – expected blowouts to boost early averages.
• Road tests at Texas, Indiana and USC – high‑stakes battles that could limit scoring.
• Home games vs. Illinois, Oregon and Michigan – competitive contests with upside.
• Mid‑season matchups against Maryland and Northwestern – favorable targets for point accumulation.

Putting It All Together

With a high‑octane offense, a defense that can shut down opponents, and a kicking game that now reliably adds three points, Ohio State has the pieces to breach the 40‑point barrier even on a tough schedule. Early win‑big games versus weak opponents will inflate their average, while the laterTests of resolve will provide the yardsticks for true strength. If the pieces hold together, the Buckeyes could rewrite the narrative of a season where scoring elite numbers feels like a distant memory.