In a survey conducted by the USA TODAY Sports Network, Ohio State emerged as the popular pick to finish atop the Big Ten conference this year. The Buckeyes narrowly edged out Oregon as the favorite, with eight first-place votes compared to the Ducks' five.

Michigan, the defending national champion and three-time Big Ten title holder, finds themselves in a tie for the third spot in the preseason poll, along with Penn State. The Big Ten, currently hosting its annual media days in Indianapolis, does not conduct an official preseason media poll.

Despite ending last season on a two-game losing streak and not winning the conference since 2020, Ohio State has raised expectations for the upcoming fall season. The Buckeyes had a stellar offseason, adding several high-profile players through the transfer portal. Quarterback Will Howard from Kansas State, running back Quinshon Judkins from Mississippi, and safety Caleb Downs from Alabama are notable additions to Ryan Day's program. Furthermore, the hiring of UCLA coach Chip Kelly as offensive coordinator has further heightened anticipation.

Ohio State's dominance in the Big Ten in recent years is evident, as they won four consecutive conference championships from 2017 to 2020, before their archrivals took over. The team's success has been widely recognized, with seven Buckeyes featured in the preseason All-Big Ten team released by the USA TODAY Sports Network. TreVeyon Henderson at running back, Emeka Egbuka as wide receiver, Donovan Jackson at left guard, J.T. Tuimoloau at defensive end, Tyleik Williams as defensive tackle, Denzel Burke at cornerback, and Caleb Downs at safety all made the prestigious list.

In addition to being favored to win the conference, Ohio State's head coach, Ryan Day, was voted as the league's coach of the year over Dan Lanning. The Buckeyes have set their sights on reclaiming the Big Ten throne and making a strong push for a national title.

As college football season approaches, the expectations for Ohio State are high, and fans eagerly await their team's performance on the field.