Ball State overwhelmed by Ohio State in season opener

Ball State lost decisively at No. 1 Ohio State on September 5; most reports list a 56-3 final, while one cites 49-3. The Cardinals managed only 118-165 total yards, and second-half defensive problems, tackling, pursuit, penalties, and execution issues outweighed a 54-yard field goal, strong special teams, and competitive first-half defense. The response against Stony Brook is now the central storyline.