Look, if you’re trying to figure out when the Buckeyes are lining up against the Hoosiers, you’ve probably noticed something weird. Usually, these two Big Ten staples meet every single year like clockwork. But with the conference expanding faster than a suburban Costco, the schedule is honestly a bit of a mess for fans to track.
Historically, Ohio State has basically owned this series. We're talking about a 30-game winning streak that lasted decades. But things changed in a hurry during the 2025 season. If you missed it, Indiana didn't just show up; they actually beat Ohio State 13-10 in the Big Ten Championship game last December. Yeah, you read that right. The Hoosiers took the crown at Lucas Oil Stadium.
So, naturally, everyone wants to know: when is the rematch?
When does Ohio State play Indiana in 2026?
For the upcoming 2026 season, the short answer is: the date isn't set in stone yet.
I know, that’s frustrating. But here is what we actually know. The game is confirmed to be an away game for Ohio State, meaning the Buckeyes are heading to Bloomington to face Indiana at Memorial Stadium. In the "Flex Protect XVIII" scheduling model the Big Ten uses now, this isn't a protected annual rivalry (like Michigan-Ohio State), but they are still scheduled to play frequently.
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Most Big Ten conference schedules for 2026 will have their specific dates finalized and dropped by the league office later this year, usually in the late spring or early summer. If we look at previous years, this matchup often lands in that "sweet spot" of late October or mid-November.
What the 2026 Schedule Looks Like So Far
While we wait for the Indiana date, the non-conference slate is already locked in for the Buckeyes. If you're planning your fall travels, keep these dates in mind:
- September 5: Ball State at Ohio Stadium
- September 12: Ohio State at Texas (This is going to be massive)
- September 19: Kent State at Ohio Stadium
The Indiana game will be one of the nine conference games squeezed into the rest of the calendar. Since Ohio State has a massive road trip to Austin in Week 2, don't be surprised if the Big Ten slots the Indiana game later in the season to balance out the travel.
Why this matchup suddenly matters so much
For years, Ohio State vs. Indiana was the game you used as a "rest week" or a chance to see the second-string quarterback get some reps in the fourth quarter. Honestly, it was a lopsided affair. But the 2025 season flipped the script.
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Indiana entered the Big Ten Championship game as a powerhouse, and their 13-10 victory over the Buckeyes wasn't a fluke—it was a defensive masterclass. It ended Ohio State’s absurdly long dominance in the series and turned Bloomington into a legitimate destination for top-tier recruits.
When they meet in 2026, it won't be about Ohio State trying to maintain a streak. It’ll be about revenge. For the first time in nearly a generation, Indiana has the bragging rights. Ryan Day (or whoever is holding the clipboard) will have this game circled in red ink.
The Venue: Memorial Stadium (The Rock)
If you're planning to go, keep in mind that Memorial Stadium in Bloomington only holds about 52,000 people. Compared to the 100,000+ at the Horseshoe, tickets for the 2026 game are going to be incredibly hard to find. Hoosier fans have found their voice, and "The Rock" is no longer the quiet library it used to be on Saturdays.
Getting tickets and watching the game
Since the specific date for the 2026 clash isn't out, you can't buy individual tickets through official channels just yet. However, season ticket renewals for both schools usually start in early 2026.
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On the TV side, the Big Ten’s massive media deal with FOX, CBS, and NBC means this game will almost certainly be in a primetime or "Big Noon" slot. Given the recent history between these two, it’s a prime candidate for the Fox Big Noon Kickoff or a Saturday night under the lights on NBC.
If you're a cord-cutter, make sure your Peacock subscription is active, as the Big Ten has been moving at least one or two "big" games a year exclusively to streaming.
Things to keep an eye on
Keep a close watch on the transfer portal this winter. Both programs have been aggressive in the portal lately. Indiana’s success has made them a "cool" destination for guys who want to play in a pro-style system, while Ohio State is always in the mix for the highest-rated talent looking for a playoff run.
Also, look at the coaching staff changes. Success often leads to coordinators getting poached for head coaching jobs. If Indiana loses the architects of that 2025 defense, the 2026 matchup might look very different.
To stay ahead of the curve, check the official Big Ten website around May 2026. That is typically when the "Big Ten After Dark" and afternoon windows get their specific dates and times assigned. Until then, just know the Buckeyes are headed to Bloomington, and they'll be looking to settle a very fresh score.
Key Takeaways for Fans
- Location: Memorial Stadium, Bloomington, IN.
- Status: Confirmed for 2026, but the specific Saturday is TBD.
- Stakes: This is a revenge game for Ohio State after losing the 2025 Big Ten Title to Indiana.
- Strategy: Don't book flights until the Big Ten releases the full conference calendar in the spring.
The best thing you can do right now is keep an eye on the Big Ten’s official scheduling announcements. Once that calendar drops, ticket prices on the secondary market like StubHub and SeatGeek will spike instantly, so you'll want to move fast if you aren't a season ticket holder.