Columbus, OH (Sept. 6, 2025) — For the first time in program history, Grambling State and Ohio State will meet on the gridiron. The two schools, separated by tradition and tiers of college football, face off Saturday afternoon in Ohio Stadium, with kickoff set for 3:30 p.m. on the Big Ten Network.

Both teams enter the contest at 1–0, fresh off season-opening wins, though achieved under vastly different circumstances. Ohio State opened with a statement, taking down No. 1 Texas 14–7 in Columbus in one of the marquee matchups of Week 1. Grambling, meanwhile, rolled past Langston 55–7 in Shreveport, displaying the type of offensive firepower that has long defined the Tigers’ success in the Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC).

A Rare Matchup Across Levels

This contest represents one of 16 FBS vs. FCS games scheduled nationwide this weekend, including four others involving Big Ten schools. For Ohio State, it is another chapter in a long, one-sided history against lower-division competition. The Buckeyes are 11-3-2 all-time against current FCS programs, with their last such defeat coming all the way back in 1940 against Cornell.

Grambling joins a short list of just nine FCS programs to have ever lined up opposite the Buckeyes. Others include Florida A&M, Youngstown State, and Ivy League staples such as Columbia and Princeton.

Though the two programs stand on different competitive footing, the Tigers bring with them one of the richest legacies in college football. Eddie Robinson, their legendary coach from 1941–42 and 1945–97, amassed 408 career wins, ranking third all-time in college football history. His name graces the Eddie Robinson Coach of the Year Award, which has honored several figures with Ohio State ties, including Jim Tressel (2002), Urban Meyer (2004 at Utah), and Luke Fickell (2021 at Cincinnati).

Ohio State’s Next Step

While the Buckeyes opened the season with a gritty defensive performance against Texas, head coach Ryan Day and offensive coordinator Brian Hartline were careful with first-year starting quarterback Julian Sayin. The highly touted freshman was tasked with managing the game rather than showcasing the full scope of Ohio State’s offense. Sayin responded with poise, delivering accurate throws, making smart reads, and avoiding costly mistakes.

Against Grambling, the coaching staff is expected to loosen the playbook. Sayin should have opportunities to stretch the field vertically and gain valuable in-game reps as he continues his development. The offensive line held firm in pass protection versus Texas, but its inability to establish the run was a concern. Facing Grambling’s front seven offers a chance to refine blocking schemes and build confidence in the ground game before diving into the teeth of Big Ten play.

Defensive Dominance

On the other side of the ball, Ohio State’s defense enters the weekend riding high after suffocating a Texas offense loaded with NFL-caliber talent. While it may be premature to suggest this group could surpass last year’s championship defense, the early signs are encouraging. The pass rush disrupted rhythm, the linebackers were disciplined, and the secondary blanketed Texas’ star receivers. If the Buckeyes bring the same intensity against Grambling, it could be another long day for the opposition.

Grambling’s Challenge

For Grambling, Saturday’s matchup is as much about pride as results. Head coach Hue Jackson has emphasized growth, toughness, and embracing opportunities when facing upper-tier opponents. The Tigers flashed offensive balance in their opener against Langston, scoring at will while leaning on a productive running game. Replicating that success against Ohio State’s defense will be an entirely different challenge.

Expectations are measured. For Grambling, competing in front of more than 100,000 fans at Ohio Stadium is an invaluable experience for players, coaches, and the program’s broader brand. Beyond the outcome, it is a chance to showcase the SWAC on a national stage, reinforcing the cultural and historical significance of HBCU football.

Outlook

Ohio State enters as an overwhelming favorite and is expected to control the game from start to finish. The focus will be on execution: building offensive rhythm, protecting Sayin, and maintaining defensive dominance. For Grambling, success may be defined less by the scoreboard and more by seizing the moment, representing the program’s tradition with pride, and showing resilience against one of college football’s powerhouses.

Prediction: Ohio State 52, Grambling State 7