College football is going to look very different in 2024. The playoff format has expanded to include 12 teams, and the ACC, Big 12, Big Ten and SEC have all grown to include new members starting this season.
For Ohio State, a more crowded conference means – in theory – a tougher battle to the top as it seeks its first Big Ten championship since 2020. Given the talent on the Buckeyes ' roster this year, the 2024 season may not stop with a Big Ten title. A second national title in 10 years may be within reach.
First on Ohio State's schedule is a home matchup with an in-state rival: the Akron Zips . This year's clash will be the fifth between these two teams since the turn of the century, and the Buckeyes have won each one so far. Most recently, Ohio State took down Akron, 59-7, in 2021.
Here's what to know about Saturday afternoon's season opener for the two teams:
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College football 2024: Akron vs. Ohio State predictions
Joey Kaufman writes: "Since the Buckeyes began regularly playing Mid-American Conference schools in 1992, they have faced Akron as much as anyone from the league and handled the Zips each time. In the last meeting in 2021, Ohio State rolled in a 59-7 rout. Similar lopsidedness should ensue."
Pete Fiutak writes: "Ohio State will be able to call its shot. It’ll score on the first two drives and the defense will take over from there."
Andre Ifill writes: "The Buckeyes averaged more yards per game than any other Big Ten program last season and will try to impose their will on the ground all afternoon. Akron's strong pass defense won't make a difference in this game. Expect Ohio State to cover the lofty spread."
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Akron vs. Ohio State odds, lines:
The Ohio State Buckeyes are favorites to defeat Akron in Sunday's college football matchup, according to the BetMGM college football odds . Looking to wager? Check out the top college football betting apps in 2024 offering the top NCAA football betting promos and bonuses in 2024 .
Odds as of Thursday afternoon.
- Spread: Ohio State (-48.5)
- Moneylines: Locked at time of writing
- Over/under: 58.5
How to watch Akron vs. Ohio State:
Date: Saturday, Aug. 31
Where: Ohio Stadium, Columbus, Ohio
Time: 3:30 p.m. ET/12:30 p.m. PT
TV: CBS
Stream: Paramount+ ; Fubo ; Sling TV
Stream college football on CBS with a Paramount+ subscription
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This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Akron vs. Ohio State football: Predictions, odds and how to watch Saturday
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