Welcome to another installment of the Saturday vs Sunday podcast — today we break down the full football landscape of one of the most fascinating states in the sport: Ohio.
In this State of Affairs episode, John Barban and Geoff Dover tackle the wild spectrum of college and pro football teams in Ohio. From powerhouse contenders to chaotic rebuilds, Ohio might have the most entertaining — and volatile — football outlook in the country heading into the 2025 season.
We kick things off with the Ohio State Buckeyes, who just won a national championship and are favorites to repeat despite breaking in a brand-new quarterback. With new offensive and defensive coordinators and massive pressure from early games (including a Week 1 clash with Texas), it’s trial by fire for first-time starter Julian Sayin. But with elite talent like Jeremiah Smith and Caleb Downs, this Buckeyes roster could be the most stacked in the country.
Then it’s on to the Cincinnati Bengals, who boast arguably the best offense in the NFL — led by Joe Burrow, Ja’Marr Chase, and a deep cast of weapons. But defensive contract disputes and roster uncertainty around Trey Hendrickson and Shamar Stewart put their Super Bowl hopes in question. Can they finally start fast and capitalize on Burrow’s prime?
Next up: the Cleveland Browns, who continue to be one of the most controversial teams in football. With uncertainty at quarterback (Flacco? Gabriel? Shedeur Sanders?), high-profile draft picks like Quinshon Judkins and Dylan Samson, and off-field issues continuing to mount, the Browns are a media spectacle. The only thing clear about this team is that nothing is clear — and preseason may be more interesting than the season itself.
Finally, the Cincinnati Bearcats round out Ohio’s slate. With returning QB Brendan Soresby, a healthy defensive line, and brand-new elite facilities that rival national powers, this program could be ready to take the next step in the Big 12. Year 3 under Scott Satterfield is the critical turning point — and the foundation is there.
This episode captures the full gamut of football fortune in Ohio: the reloading dynasty (Ohio State), the title hopeful with one fatal flaw (Bengals), the talent-rich chaos magnet (Browns), and the sleeping giant (Bearcats). Whether you’re an NFL fan, a college junkie, or just love drama, Ohio is the epicenter.
Let us know in the comments: Which Ohio team do you trust the most — and which one is headed for a meltdown?
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