Skull Session: It’s the Big Ten’s Time to Shine, Ohio State is the Best Program in College Football and Ohio State Women’s Hockey Hires Jack Johnson
Ohio State enters the 2026 season as the top-ranked college football program in the country according to USA TODAY. This ranking marks a shift to the top spot, reflecting a period of consistent dominance that includes winning at least 10 games in nearly every full season since 2005. While debate continues regarding conference supremacy following SEC Media Days, the numbers highlight the Buckeyes as the gold standard in the sport.
The spotlight now turns toward the Big Ten as the conference prepares for its own media sessions in Chicago. With three consecutive national championships claimed by the conference, the argument for Big Ten depth is supported by results on the field. Schools like Oregon, Indiana, and Ohio State represent a competitive tier that continues to challenge traditional power structures in college football.
Beyond the gridiron, the Ohio State athletic department is growing in other areas. The women's hockey program has added former NHL veteran Jack Johnson as an associate head coach. Johnson brings 19 years of professional experience to the staff, aiming to support recruiting and overall program development under head coach Nadine Muzerall.
Infrastructure at Ohio Stadium is also changing to meet demand. New field-level luxury suites in the south end zone have sold out for the 2026 season. These modular structures provide premium seating and access to the 1922 Club, marking the latest update to a facility that recently saw its highest non-student season ticket sales since 2009. These shifts underscore the financial health and competitive drive of the program as it moves into the fall schedule.