Ohio State Fan Survey Highlights Young Standouts Ahead of Illinois Matchup

A weekly SB Nation Reacts poll asks Buckeyes fans which emerging player they believe in most and to predict the scoring margin against Illinois.

A weekly Ohio State fan survey is asking supporters to weigh in on which of the program's young players has impressed them the most during the opening stretch of the 2026 season. The poll, part of the SB Nation Reacts series, also invites fans to forecast how large a winning margin the Buckeyes will post against Illinois on Saturday.

Several first- and second-year players have drawn attention through three games. Chris Henry Jr. has reached the end zone twice, Legend Bey scored a touchdown in the opener, and Jay Timmons has played with the polish of a seasoned defensive back. Brock Boyd has settled into the wide receiver rotation, Riley Pettijohn has made a case as the top linebacker on the roster, and Khary Wilder has flashed edge-rushing ability. Jeremiah Smith sits apart as an established star.

Ohio State enters its first Big Ten contest as a 27.5-point favorite, while the SP+ analytics model forecasts a 37-16 final score. The Buckeyes hold a 69-30-4 edge in the all-time series. In last year's meeting, Ohio State won 34-16 in Champaign behind two rushing touchdowns from CJ Donaldson, 47 rushing yards and a receiving score from Bo Jackson, and a touchdown catch by Smith on a pass from Julian Sayin.

The defense recorded six tackles for loss, four sacks, and a Payton Pierce interception in that game. Survey results are scheduled to be published Saturday morning before kickoff.