On Sunday 6 September 2026, Ohio State Buckeyes play Ball State Cardinals in college football. Our model likes 2 bets here. The one it likes most is Over 56.5 Total Points, priced at -108 when we wrote this. Here is the thinking behind each pick, in plain English.

Over 56.5 Total Points (-108)

Odds available at LowVig at time of publishing

Ohio State's offense is known for scoring a lot of points, and they have a solid chance to put on a show against Ball State. With a combined total of around 65.4 points expected, it feels like both teams could easily find the end zone multiple times. Ball State might struggle to keep up, but their offense is capable of sneaking in some scores as well. The biggest risk here is that both teams could end up playing conservatively, but with Ohio State's track record, I think they will keep pushing to score. With the total set at 56.5, it looks promising to hit the over. It was priced at -108 when we wrote this, so a $10 bet returns $19.26 if it lands. The bookmakers have this as a slight favourite. Our model likes this one a lot. Prices move, so check the price at your bookmaker before you back it. And if this one does not feel right to you, skipping it is a perfectly good move.

Ball State Cardinals +49.5 on the Line (-106)

Odds available at LowVig at time of publishing

For Ball State to cover the spread of 49.5 points against Ohio State, they need to keep the score close enough. While Ohio State has a strong offense, Ball State's defense has been solid at times, which could help them limit the damage. Our numbers give Ball State a good chance to make this happen. Even though Ohio State is favored and expected to win by a decent margin, Ball State has shown they can compete in tough spots. Just keep in mind, Ohio State's offense is really powerful, and they could run up the score quickly. It was priced at -106 when we wrote this, so a $10 bet returns $19.43 if it lands. The number next to the team is the handicap, and that team's score is adjusted by it before the bet is settled. The bookmakers have this as a slight favourite. Our model leans this way without loving it. Prices move, so check the price at your bookmaker before you back it. And if this one does not feel right to you, skipping it is a perfectly good move.

That is how our model reads Ohio State Buckeyes v Ball State Cardinals. Prices move, so check the price at your bookmaker before you back anything. And if a game does not feel right to you, the strongest move is to skip it -- there is another one tomorrow.

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