What was once anticipated to be one of the heavyweight battles of the 2026 college football season has taken a different shape as the No. 23 Oregon Ducks head to Columbus, Ohio, to take on the No. 12 Ohio State Buckeyes.

When the 2026 season began, Oregon and Ohio State were the top two teams in the nation, each entering the year with a quarterback considered a legitimate Heisman Trophy contender. Ten weeks into the college football season, however, both programs have more questions surrounding them than answers in a season that has been defined by unexpected upsets and shifting expectations.

Oct 17, 2026; Eugene, Oregon, USA; Oregon Ducks tight end Jamari Johnson (9) catches a touchdown pass during the second half against Nebraska Cornhuskers defensive back Caleb Benning (28) and defensive back Donovan Jones (8) at Autzen Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Troy Wayrynen-Imagn Images | IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

Following a stunning road loss to USC, Ohio State dropped from No. 2 in the AP Poll to No. 11.…