Episode Notes: Ohio State Buckeyes LIVE 378 – "TOUGHEST ROAD GAME?"

Host: Mark Rogers (Voice of College Football) Panel: Tony Gerdeman (Buckeye Insiders / Buckeye Weekly Podcast), Steve Helwagen (Bucknuts247) Guest: Cory Brada (From The Hawkeye of The Storm)

Overall Summary This Buckeyes-focused episode opens with recruiting rankings debates, shifts to CFP-era program success (highlighting Iowa’s impressive consistency), and centers on a detailed preview of Ohio State’s challenging road game at Iowa (Kinnick Stadium). The conversation blends historical context, current roster analysis, coaching insights, and Big Ten scheduling notes. It emphasizes Iowa’s defensive identity, close-game struggles in 2025, and the Kinnick atmosphere as a true road test.

0:00 – Early banter & BuckeyeInsiders.com launch

• Show introductions, appreciation for viewers, and updates on fall camp timing and Big Ten Media Days.

~2:00 – Recruiting Rankings Discussion (Tony & Mark)

• Mass validity of rankings correlating to wins/playoffs/NFL success.
• Impact of transfer portal on evaluations.
• Debate on whether services drive rankings or react to offers (e.g., Chaz Coleman example).
• 247Sports’ fixed 32 five-stars per class criticized; preference for flexible, merit-based stars.
• NFL correlation stats: ~40% of 5-stars reach rosters vs. sharp drop-offs for lower stars.
• Composite rankings praised for accuracy.

~13:00 – CFP Era Wins/Losses List

• Ohio State leads with fewest losses.
• Iowa ranks 11th nationally in winning percentage over ~12 seasons (105-49) despite no CFP appearances.
• Discussion of consistent programs vs. boom/bust teams (e.g., Nebraska’s decline).
• Iowa’s “cruise control” 8-4/9-3 model highlighted.

~20:00 – Non-Blue Blood Coaches (Last 5 Years)

• Curt Cignetti (Indiana) tops many lists.
• Other names: Mario Cristobal (Miami), Lane Kiffin (LSU), Matt Campbell (Iowa State → Penn State), Bret Bielema (Illinois), Jeff Bromm (Louisville), etc.
• Pat Fitzgerald’s potential at Michigan State discussed amid program contrasts.

~30:00+ – Iowa Preview with Cory Brada

• Kinnick Stadium atmosphere and history (Steve’s 2017 visit recalled: JT Barrett pick-six opener).
• 2017 Iowa upset over Ohio State dissected (turnovers, special teams, Hawkeye talent).
• Iowa’s 2025 frustrations: Lost several close games they usually win (Indiana, Oregon, USC, Iowa State) due to one/two-play swings.
• Defensive strengths under Phil Parker; questions on turnover production without key departures (e.g., Xavier Nwankpa/TJ Hall).
• Quarterback battle: Jeremy Heklinski vs. Hank Brown. Kirk Ferentz’s traditional preference for “safe” options (favoring Brown?) vs. Tim Lester’s desire for downfield shots. Battle likely extends into fall.
• Skill players: Tony Diaz, Evan James (transfers), tight ends, etc.
• Ohio State road test: Kinnick as one of the toughest environments; potential Big Noon Kickoff.
• Cody Haddad “revenge game” note.
• Broader Big Ten notes: Scheduling quirks, network picks, and reduced frequency of traditional rivalries due to conference expansion.

Later Segments

• Water tower removal anecdote, travel recommendations to Iowa City.
• Future media days logistics.
• Closing plugs and show notes.

• Iowa as a Road Test: Historically tough at home; Ohio State expected to be favored but warned against complacency. Iowa wins via field position, defense, and late-game execution.
• Program Consistency: Iowa’s sustained success (top-12 winning %) often overlooked because of no CFP breakthroughs.
• Recruiting/Portal Realism: Services provide value but are imperfect; mass outcomes (NFL hits, team wins) still correlate strongly.
• Tone: Analytical, fan-friendly, with humor (Steve’s travel woes, water tower talk) and mutual respect among panelists.

Episode Style: Conversational, stats-driven, with screen shares of lists/records. Strong Ohio State focus but fair, in-depth Iowa scouting via Cory. Ideal for Buckeyes fans wanting opponent intel ahead of the 2026 season.

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Episode Notes: Ohio State Primetime LIVE #93 (Presented by FanDuel) Hosts: Garrison Gaddy & Riley Burnett Guest: Michigan Metal (Michigan fan perspective) Source: OhioStateVOCFB (VOCFB.com) Length: ~1 hour (transcript covers full show)

1. Carlos May Recruiting Update (Opening Segment)

• Top defensive line recruit Carlos May (6'3.5", 305 lbs, #15 national, #5 Alabama) has a commitment set for July 18 at 3:30 PM ET.
• Final four: Ohio State, Auburn, Georgia, Florida State (Alabama notably out).
• Strong optimism from hosts that Ohio State (Larry Johnson) lands him.
• Highlights May’s elite athleticism (track speed, burst, motor, size). Would anchor an already strong 2027 DL class alongside DJ Jacobs, Marcus Fakau, Wyatt Smith, etc.
• Larry Johnson praise: Building potentially historic classes despite age and recent staff losses. Southern recruiting pipeline (GA, AL, etc.) is thriving.
• Broader context: Ohio State’s success vs. SEC programs helping flip Southern talent.

2. Michigan Internal Drama & Institutional Control (Mid-Show)

• Special guest Michigan Metal shares frustration with ongoing scandals, lack of transparency, and drama under Ward Manuel / former President Ono.
• Topics: Sign-stealing fallout, Matt Weiss investigation, hockey/basketball/football issues, alleged knowledge by leadership, and "lack of institutional control."
• Michigan fan perspective: Embarrassing for the program; wants Ward Manuel out; acknowledges championship but exhausted by constant headlines.
• Garrison (Ohio State fan, Michigan-raised) discusses broader pattern of issues, compares to other programs, and calls for accountability (possible postseason implications if findings are severe, though skeptical of major penalties).
• Emphasis on integrity vs. winning-at-all-costs culture.

3. Ohio State 2025 Wide Receiver Predictions

• Locked-in #1: Jeremiah Smith (X receiver) – generational talent, record-chasing potential, will see heavy usage/YAC emphasis.
• Boundary/Z: Devin McKeown (transfer from UTSA) favored as high-upside WR2 – productive stats, speed, experience vs. Power programs.
• Slot: Brandon Ennis (veteran, reliable, chemistry with QB) or Kyle Parker (better athlete).
• Hosts see strong room depth; Ennis still gets significant snaps as leader/blocker.

4. Ryan Day’s Legacy Season

• This is viewed as potentially Ryan Day’s most important season.
• Strong roster + challenging Big Ten schedule (Texas, Oregon, USC, Michigan, etc.) sets up opportunity for “immortality.”
• Goal: Win Big Ten + National Championship → solidify status alongside legends (multiple titles, strong win percentage in toughest era).
• Discussion of 9-3 or better scenarios still leading to playoff success in expanded format.
• Optimism around new OC Arthur Smith and overall program direction.

Other Notes

• FanDuel promo (gambling odds, Ohio State NC favorites).
• VOCFB.com / shop plugs (merch, writers).
• Light banter on heat, fan questions, and show plugs (Horseshoe Hangover, Calling Show, etc.).
• Ends with classic “O-H-I-O.”

Overall Tone: Positive and forward-looking on Ohio State recruiting/2026 outlook, balanced with candid rival program discussion. Solid mix of analysis, guest insight, and fan engagement.

Great episode for Buckeye fans tracking recruiting, roster projections, and Big Ten landscape.

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Episode Notes: Ohio State Football #1 in FPI Rankings – Horseshoe Hangover Live #5 (2026)

Hosts: Denzel Jones & Brad Thomas Show: Horseshoe Hangover (OhioStateVOCFB) Length: ~55 minutes (based on transcript timestamps) Focus: ESPN FPI Preseason Top 25 for 2026 college football season, with heavy emphasis on Ohio State.

Denzel and Brad react to the newly released ESPN FPI preseason rankings where Ohio State sits at #1, followed by Texas (#2), Notre Dame (#3), Oregon (#4), and Georgia (#5). They break down surprises, overrated/underrated teams, strength of schedule, transfer portal impacts, and implications for the Buckeyes’ championship hopes. The conversation mixes analysis, skepticism of FPI, historical context, and fan excitement.

FPI Top 10 Highlights (as discussed):

• 1. Ohio State
• 1. Texas
• 1. Notre Dame
• 1. Oregon
• 1. Georgia
• 1. Indiana
• 1. Miami
• 1. Alabama
• 1. LSU
• 1. Texas Tech

Notable Opinions:

• Penn State: Too high in FPI; needs to prove itself with new coach after last year’s collapse.
• Ole Miss: Overranked in the top 15.
• Iowa: Surprisingly low at #25 — hosts feel they’re usually a top-20 lock.
• Indiana & Miami: High rankings reflect last year’s success, but sustainability questioned due to transfers.
• LSU & Alabama: LSU at #9 feels too high; Alabama at #8 is “safe” but the program is in transition.
• Florida: At #18, hosts are skeptical (they were high in prior preseason FPI but finished unranked).
• Clemson: Low returning production, coaching concerns under Dabo Swinney.
• Virginia Tech (James Franklin): Hosts are bullish on his impact.

Ohio State Focus:

• Toughest schedule in the Big Ten (8th hardest overall per FPI).
• Hosts are excited — a 1-loss season could set them up perfectly for the playoffs.
• Win total at 9.5 feels low given their #1 FPI ranking and national title favorite status (+550 odds).
• Discussion on whether a 3-loss OSU team could still make the 12-team playoff.

Broader Themes:

• Skepticism of preseason rankings/FPI in the transfer portal era — too reliant on talent composites and past performance.
• Big brands often get preferential treatment in rankings.
• Transfer portal realities: Teams like Texas are spending massively; sustainability and roster cohesion matter.
• Playoff expansion critique — too many teams dilutes quality.

Notable Segments:

• Strength of schedule deep dive.
• Notre Dame schedule and expectations.
• Favorite Ohio State wide receivers of all time (fun fan segment: Olave, Egbuka, Devin Smith, Paris Campbell, etc.).
• Betting/hype discussion around the Ohio State vs. Texas matchup.

Casual, passionate Buckeye-focused banter with honest skepticism of media rankings. Strong mix of analysis, nostalgia, and excitement for the 2026 season.

Best for: Ohio State fans wanting early season hype, FPI reactions, and Big Ten/SEC insights.

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Episode Notes: Ohio State Call-In Show 77 – "Ranking Ohio State's Biggest Games!" (Presented by FanDuel) Hosts: Garrison Gaddy & Denzel James Date: Friday, July 10, 2026 (7 PM EST) Platform: OhioStateVOCFB / VOCFB

A lively Friday call-in show mixing fun nostalgia (top Ohio State RBs since 2000) with forward-looking schedule analysis for 2026. Hosts and callers debate the toughest games on the Buckeyes' slate (excluding/then including Michigan), player evaluations, coaching, and bold season predictions. Strong caller engagement with hot takes on Texas, Indiana, Oregon, defense, and running back depth. The show highlights Ohio State's talent edge while acknowledging tough road tests. Lengthy but engaging — ideal for short-form clips on RBs, schedule rankings, and caller debates.

0:00 – 0:08 Intro, welcomes, channel plugs (like/subscribe, vocfb.com, merch). Garrison and Denzel set a casual Friday vibe.

~0:08 – 0:33 Top 5 Ohio State RBs Since 2000 Discussion

• Both hosts agree on #1: Ezekiel Elliott (national championship impact, dominant stretch, carried teams).
• #2: J.K. Dobbins (monster 2,000-yard season, freshman records, production).
• Extended debate on blocking, big plays (e.g., Elliott’s 85-yard run vs. Alabama), and comparisons to Eddie George (all-time but pre-2000 focus).
• Clip gold: Elliott’s long run replay and commentary.

~0:33 – 1:00+ Caller #1: Tyler (Dallas)

• Ranks toughest games (excluding Michigan initially): 1. USC (road), 2. Indiana, 3. Oregon (home), then Iowa/Texas discussion.
• Strong skepticism on Texas/Arch Manning (third-year QB, coordinator issues, Sark calling plays). Praises Will Muschamp addition but notes linebacker/edge questions.
• Defends Julian Sayin’s 2025 performances; excited for Zion Grady’s impact on DL.
• Bold prediction: Ohio State undefeated in 2026.
• Landscape question: Which game matters most nationally? (Indiana/Oregon discussed).

Mid-Show

• Running back room talk continues (Bo Jackson, Isaiah West, Legend Bailey, Travion, etc.). CBS top-10 RB rooms note (OSU #7-9).
• Defense optimism: Top-5 potential, concerns over LB transition, high praise for Caleb Downs/Earl Little Jr./Terry Moore.
• Zion Grady highlighted as potential monster DE.

Later Callers (e.g., Other Tyler)

• Running back usage philosophy: Ball control + explosiveness (2021-style offense desired).
• LB drop-off concerns but overall defensive confidence.
• Brian Hartline OC debate: Was it necessary? Wasted opportunity arguments vs. recruiting value (Chris Henry, etc.).
• Schedule toughness: Calls for even harder non-con (LSU, Georgia, etc.).

~End of Show

• Final RB rankings debate (Beanie Wells, Carlos Hyde, Maurice Clarett, Trey Henderson/Sermon considerations).
• Closing plugs, Monday Horseshoe Hangover with Denzel, other VOCFB shows. O-H-I-O.

• RB Rankings Consensus: Zeke #1, JK #2. Deeper debate on Beanie Wells (#3), Carlos Hyde, Clarett (one-year wonder), Trey Henderson. Emphasis on production, accolades, and era-adjusted impact.
• 2026 Schedule Toughest Games: USC (road sleeper), Indiana (rivalry/national implications), Oregon (talent + coaching), Texas (national spotlight), Michigan (rivalry weight), Iowa. Hosts differ slightly on order but see Oregon/Texas as elite tests.
• Player Spotlights: Zion Grady (long arms, consistency), Bo Jackson/Isaiah West combo, Caleb Downs legacy vs. Earl Little Jr., Julian Sayin growth.
• Hot Takes: Undefeated prediction, Texas skepticism (Arch, Sark), Hartline OC necessity debate, defensive continuity.
• Fan/Cultural Notes: Rivalry passion (Michigan/Oregon), excitement for tempo/explosiveness without sacrificing ball control.

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Episode Notes: "Has DGG Made His Decision!? / Ohio State Primetime 92" Hosts: Garrison Gaddy (main host), Riley Burnett, Denzel Jones (guest co-host from Horseshoe Hangover) Show: Ohio State Primetime (Voice of College Football) Date/Context: Recent episode discussing Ohio State football recruiting, with heavy focus on 2026/2027 class running back DGG (likely David Gentry or similar high-profile recruit).

The ~1-hour episode opens with introductions and channel plugs, then dives deeply into Ohio State recruiting drama around elite RB prospect DGG. The hosts analyze his uncle's comments suggesting DGG might prefer Tennessee for more "love" and opportunity versus being "just another player" in Ohio State's machine. They debate OSU vs. Tennessee fit, NIL implications, coaching evaluations, and DGG's July 22 announcement date. The conversation shifts to other recruiting (QB Christopher Vargas crystal balls), secondary depth chart, front-seven identity for the upcoming season, and closes with calls to action. Tone is fan-oriented, optimistic about OSU but realistic about recruiting battles.

• 0:00 - 0:20: Introductions, co-hosts Riley & Denzel, like/subscribe plea.
• 0:20 - ~0:45+: Main Topic - DGG Recruitment (bulk of episode)
  • Uncle's quotes: Coming to OSU = "just another great player in the machine"; better opportunity/love at Tennessee where he's building something.
  • Hosts' takes: Uncle possibly "fishing" for better NIL offers. DGG seen as high-upside but not guaranteed immediate starter at OSU (behind Bo Jackson, etc.).
  • Pros for OSU: Team accolades, development under Coach Laughlin/Locke, learning from veterans, long-term NFL path.
  • Pros for Tennessee: Immediate starts, big numbers, program savior role (they "need" him more).
  • NIL discussion: Tennessee reportedly offering ~$2M (seen as high/controversial for HS RB); OSU around $300K. Debate on paying unproven HS talent vs. portal vets.
  • Prediction: Announcement likely stays July 22; DGG may regret Tennessee long-term due to workload.
  • Strong defense of current OSU RBs (Bo Jackson, Legend Bay, etc.) and Coach Laughlin's performance.
• Mid-episode (~0:45 - 0:55): Quick pivot to QB Recruiting — Crystal balls for Christopher Vargas (Massachusetts, CJ Stroud comp: tall, pocket passer, good arm/placement but lean). Discussion of 2027/2028 classes, Brady Evans speculation (UCLA lean?).
• ~0:55 - End: Defense/Depth Chart Talk
  • Secondary Top 5 (variations across hosts):
    • Common: Jalen McClain (top), Devin Sanchez (All-American potential).
    • Others: Jermaine Matthews (nickel potential), Dom Kelly, Earl Little Jr., Leroy Roker, Terry Moore.
  • Front 7 Identity: Hungry/aggressive (many players waited their turn). "Stonewall" up front (size/massive D-line), fast linebackers (Peyton Pierce, Christian Allegro as starters, heavy rotation), tackling concerns noted but optimism high. Players highlighted: Kenyatta, James Smith, Edrick Houston, Zion Grady, etc.

• On DGG at OSU vs. Tennessee: "If you go to Tennessee... they put a billion miles on you." (Denzel)
• Uncle critique: "Uncles in recruitment... sometimes you probably don't want their family members speaking." (Garrison)
• NIL realism: Hosts uncomfortable with high HS payments but acknowledge modern realities.
• Secondary: Praise for young talent and veterans stepping up.
• Closing vibe: Positive on OSU's direction, heavy recruiting focus.

• Recruiting Pressure: OSU doesn't "need" DGG like Tennessee does, but offers elite development/NFL pipeline.
• Program Culture: Emphasis on not overpaying or risking culture for one player.
• Optimism: Strong roster depth (especially secondary/front 7), good coaching staff evaluations.
• Fan Engagement: Heavy calls for likes/subs, sponsorships (FanDuel, etc.), and community involvement.

Great episode for Buckeye fans tracking the 2027 RB class and 2026 defensive outlook. The DGG segment is the clear centerpiece with passionate, balanced debate.

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Episode Notes: Ohio State Buckeyes LIVE 376 MARCUS FAKATOU!, PRESEASON ALL-AMERICANS Hosts: Mark Rogers (Voice of College Football), Steve Helwagen (Bucknuts247), Tony Gerdeman (Buckeye Insiders / Buckeye Weekly)

The episode focuses on Ohio State football recruiting momentum (especially recent commits like Jed Harrison and Marcus Fakato), preseason All-American selections from Athlon Sports, historical Buckeye team greatness, and broader Big Ten outlook.

1. Recruiting Updates

• Jed Harrison (WR, 2027 class): Younger brother of Marvin Harrison Jr. Committed to Ohio State. Expected but not guaranteed after Brian Hartline’s departure. Strong relationships with Cortez Hankton and Devin Jordan helped secure him. Described as fast, agile, good after the catch, smart route-runner; projects as a high-value, scheme-versatile player (6'1"-6'2"). Not as tall as Marvin but plays bigger with leaping ability.
• Recent Commit Run: 5 commitments in ~10 days (as of late June). Includes:
  • Austin Miller (WR, 2029)
  • Jordan Donahue (WR, 2027)
  • Caden Moss (OT, 2027)
  • Marcus Fakato (DL, 2027): 6'6", 275 lbs, #45 nationally. Major get from California (Sierra Canyon). Highlighted for bolstering the defensive line.
• Context: Ohio State maintaining elite WR recruiting depth post-Hartline. NIL realities mean more balanced classes (top-tier + developmental pieces). Quarterback play and development remain key attractors.

2. Preseason All-Americans (Athlon Sports Focus)

• Offense:
  • Jeremiah Smith: Consensus 1st-team All-American (slam dunk).
  • Julian Sayin (QB): 2nd-team. Praised for 2024 production and completion % record in Big Ten, but hosts note tough competition (Arch Manning, others). Projection-heavy for some QBs.
• Defense: Limited Buckeye presence early in rankings. Hosts expect multiple OSU defenders (e.g., Earl Little on some 4th teams, potential for Jalen McClain, Devin Sanchez, Kenyatta Jackson, etc.) to rise as season progresses. Caden Curry, Arvell Reese, etc., cited as recent breakout examples.
• Other Notes: Tight end requirements in selections; discussion of projection vs. production (e.g., Arch Manning hype).

3. Historical Ohio State Teams Discussion

• Columbus Dispatch gallery on greatest OSU teams sparked debate.
• Strong cases for:
  • 2024 team: Dominant playoff run, Will Howard’s dual-threat grit + efficiency.
  • 2019, 2002/2003, 1995/1996/1998 teams.
• Themes: Depth, quarterback play, overcoming adversity, and how eras/styles compare.

4. Big Ten Outlook & Predictions

• Athlon projected order: Ohio State, Indiana, Oregon, Michigan, USC, Washington, Penn State, etc.
• Hosts discuss potential "plus/minus 3 wins" teams (conservative magazine projections).
• Standouts: Wisconsin (new AD, QB health), UCLA (new coach improvement), Illinois, Nebraska, Minnesota.
• General view: Upper crust strong; surprises inevitable in middle tier. PJ Fleck/Iowa noted for consistent bowl success.

5. Other Segments

• Steve recovering from minor surgery (Inspire device) but still contributing.
• Promotions: Phil Steele upcoming interview; Buckeye Insiders site launch (sign up for notifications); regular Buckeye Weekly content.
• Listener engagement: Super Chats, comments encouraged.

• On Jed Harrison: “No downside… extremely valuable with the skill set and his knowledge base.”
• On recruiting sustainability: “You can’t sign three five-stars… anymore because of the way NIL is set up.”
• On 2024 team: “Hard to beat… Will Howard had the best of Craig Krenzel in him but could also throw the ball well.”
• Tone: Optimistic on OSU’s current trajectory, realistic about challenges and historical context.

Overall Vibe: Informative, conversational Buckeye-centric show blending timely recruiting news, preseason analysis, and fan nostalgia. Strong focus on maintaining elite talent pipelines on both sides of the ball.

Great episode for fans tracking 2027 class and preseason hype. Next show teased for the following Wednesday.

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