Ohio State Remains Betting Favorite to Win National Title as Spring Ball Intensifies

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A year after winning the national championship, Ohio State fell short of its ultimate goal in the latest edition of the College Football Playoff, losing in the first round. However, the Buckeyes are already deep into spring practice working to get back to the top of the sport, and they remain the betting favorite to win the 2026 national title at 6/1 odds, according to BetMGM.

Why it matters

Ohio State is always a contender for the national title, and their status as the betting favorite heading into the 2026 season shows the high expectations surrounding the program. The Buckeyes will have a challenging schedule, facing off against Oregon, Texas, and Indiana, but their talented roster led by Heisman Trophy contenders Julian Sayin and Jeremiah Smith has oddsmakers bullish on their chances.

The details

Despite having to replace multiple first-round draft choices and other contributors from last year's team, Ohio State is still the favorite to win the national title next season. The Buckeyes are currently 6/1 (+600) to win the title, according to BetMGM. Other top contenders include Notre Dame (+700), Oregon (+700), Texas (+700), and Indiana (+750).

• Ohio State won the national championship a year ago.
• The Buckeyes lost in the first round of the College Football Playoff two months ago.
• Ohio State is currently deep into spring practice for the 2026 season.

What’s next

The Buckeyes will look to continue their strong spring practice as they prepare for a challenging 2026 schedule that includes games against Oregon, Texas, and Indiana.