Ohio State football fans are voicing frustration and disappointment following FOX Sports’ recent announcement that the Buckeyes’ much-anticipated season opener against Texas on August 30, 2025, will kick off at 11 a.m. CT (noon ET) as part of the network’s “Big Noon Kickoff” broadcast lineup. While the early time slot may align with FOX’s strategy to capture national viewership, many fans and stakeholders see it as a direct threat to the rich gameday traditions that define the Ohio State football experience.
For head coach Ryan Day and the program, gameday isn’t just about football—it’s about ritual, rhythm, and community. Time-honored practices such as the team’s Friday night stay at the Blackwell Inn, the emotionally charged walk through the “Juice Tunnel,” and the cherished Skull Session at St. John Arena are all at risk of being rushed or sidelined due to the earlier start time. These traditions are not only meaningful to players and coaches but are also deeply woven into the cultural fabric of Buckeye Nation.
The backlash has been swift and widespread. Fans have taken to social media, message boards, and sports radio to express their dismay, arguing that a primetime game between two college football powerhouses like Ohio State and Texas deserves a primetime spotlight—not a midday kickoff that dampens the atmosphere. Critics say the noon kickoff compromises the energy and intensity that a night game naturally brings, especially for a matchup that could have major playoff implications.
Moreover, the early kickoff disrupts the signature tailgating scene outside Ohio Stadium, which typically builds over several hours into a full-scale celebration. For many fans, the social rituals surrounding the game are just as important as the contest itself. Alumni groups, local businesses, and long-time ticket holders stand to lose out on the full gameday experience.
FOX reportedly paid $10 million to secure the exclusive broadcast rights to this high-profile game, reaffirming the growing influence of media contracts in college football scheduling. But the decision has reignited debate over whether television priorities are beginning to erode the soul of the sport.
As the countdown to kickoff begins, the Ohio State community is sending a clear message: some traditions are worth more than even the biggest media deals.
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