The 2026 college football season is already generating some serious buzz, and for good reason. Oregon and Ohio State are set to face off on November 7 in Columbus—a matchup that’s anything but ordinary.
This isn’t just two top-tier teams meeting. It’s a rematch of their wild College Football Playoff quarterfinal at the Rose Bowl from two seasons ago.
Oregon Ducks vs. Ohio State Buckeyes: A Clash of Titans
Both the Ducks and the Buckeyes have been absolute powerhouses lately. CBS Sports’ Brandon Marcello has Ohio State ranked No. 2 and Oregon right behind at No. 3 in the post-spring top 25 for 2026.
This game could end up being the highest-ranked matchup of the entire season, which is saying something.
National Championship Contenders
Looking at the odds, both teams are heavy favorites for the national title. DraftKings Sportsbook lists Ohio State at +650, the best odds out there, while Oregon isn’t far off with the fifth-best at +800.
That’s a lot of pressure—and a lot of talent—on both sidelines.
Historical Context
There’s plenty of history between these two. They’ve met 12 times, with Ohio State winning 10.
But the last time they played in Columbus? Oregon actually pulled off the win back in 2021.
The Ducks will be chasing that feeling again in 2026. Their 2024 meeting was a heart-stopper, with Oregon edging out Ohio State 32-31 at Autzen Stadium.
Oregon went on a tear that season, winning out and taking the Big Ten title. But Ohio State got their revenge in the playoff quarterfinal, beating Oregon 41-21 and eventually grabbing the national championship.
Big Ten Title Race
Both teams are right at the top of the Big Ten title conversation. Ohio State’s the favorite at +180, while Indiana, last year’s champs, are next at +250.
Oregon sits just behind at +260. The Ducks last won the Big Ten in 2024, but Ohio State hasn’t taken it since 2020.
So, yeah, this 2026 matchup could shake up the whole conference race.
Recent Performances
These programs have been on fire the last few years. Both have made the playoff in back-to-back seasons.
Oregon knocked off Ohio State in a classic regular-season game in 2024, but then Ohio State flipped the script in the playoff quarterfinal.
Last season, Oregon reached the semifinal before losing to Indiana, who went on to win it all. Ohio State, meanwhile, fell to Miami in the quarterfinal.
Fan Expectations
Fans are counting down the days for this one. There’s so much history, hype, and uncertainty around this matchup—it’s almost impossible not to get caught up in it.
For Ducks and Buckeyes fans, this isn’t just another game. It’s a battle for bragging rights, playoff momentum, and maybe even a shot at the national championship.
Conclusion
The 2026 matchup between the Oregon Ducks and the Ohio State Buckeyes? It’s already getting hyped as a game for the ages. Both teams are ranked near the top and have their eyes on the national championship.
There’s a long history between these two, and honestly, it just makes things more interesting. If you’re a Ducks fan or you bleed scarlet and gray, this is probably one you can’t miss.
Want more details? There’s a full article over on Sports Illustrated that dives into the matchup.
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