As the scarlet and gray faithful held their breath during Ohio State's season opener against Indiana, it was evident that some fine-tuning was needed. The Buckeyes, adorned with the No. 5 ranking, emerged from the bout with a victory, but the offensive engine had yet to hit its stride. A fumble here, a missed opportunity there — it all added up to a performance that left many wanting more.

Quarterback Kyle McCord

Enter Kyle McCord, the fresh face under center, tasked with navigating the uncharted waters of a new season. Against Indiana, the offense sputtered, stalling at times, leaving fans yearning for the explosive displays that have become synonymous with Ohio State football.

This Saturday, under the watchful gaze of the Buckeye faithful and a nationwide audience, McCord and the rest of the squad have a golden opportunity to hit the reset button. Youngstown State stands as the next challenge on this journey, a formidable but conquerable foe. The Big Ten Network will carry the clash, yet the hallowed seats of the Ohio Stadium still beckon, inviting those with a passion for pigskin to witness the spectacle in person.

Devin Brown

A whisper has swept through the Buckeye Nation, hinting at a two-quarterback strategy. Devin Brown, a name poised to enter the fray behind McCord, adds an intriguing dynamic to the mix. Should the tides of fortune turn favorably for Ohio State against their Football Championship Subdivision opponent — and with a point spread that suggests dominance — could this be a tantalizing glimpse into the future of the quarterback room?

Buckeye Defense

While the offense strives to find its rhythm, the defense has stood tall. Against Indiana, they were nothing short of spectacular, showcasing speed, aggression, and an unwavering resolve. Not a single substantial play conceded, a testament to the relentless pursuit of excellence that defines Ohio State football. Granted, the Hoosiers may not stand as the most formidable offensive force the Buckeyes will face this season, but make no mistake, this was a statement performance.

Youngstown State

As the stage is set for Saturday's home opener, the odds are heavily in favor of Ohio State. The FCS opponent, Youngstown State, steps into the lion's den, facing a team that has rarely crossed paths with teams from their division. Only three times since the Division I split in 1978 have the Buckeyes faced FCS opposition, with Youngstown State appearing twice in 2007 and 2008, and Florida A&M in 2013. In those encounters, Ohio State exhibited nothing short of dominance, outscoring their counterparts a staggering 157-6.

In this clash, the echoes of history will resonate through the hallowed halls of Ohio Stadium. The fervor of the Buckeye faithful, the legacy of legends past, and the promise of a new era converge on this sacred turf. For McCord, for Coach Ryan Day, for each player who dons the scarlet and gray, this game is more than a contest; it's a chance to etch their names into the annals of Buckeye lore.

As the sun sets over Columbus, a new chapter in Ohio State football will be written. The script is yet unwritten, but the stage is set, the players poised, and the legacy awaits.