Brad Kern

  In the ever-evolving landscape of college football, the introduction of the College Football Playoff (CFP) system has undeniably altered the dynamics of postseason play. This change has been particularly poignant for traditional powerhouses like Ohio State and Florida State, programs accustomed to vying for national championships. As we reflect on the current year, the repercussions of this shift are increasingly apparent, not just in the aspirations and strategies of these teams but also in the broader culture of college football. The Diminished Appeal of Non-Playoff Bowls Historically, bowl games were the pinnacle of success for college football teams, a reward for a season of hard work and an opportunity for national exposure. However, the advent of the CFP has cast a long shadow over these once-coveted events. For teams like Ohio State and Florida State, which have histories rich with championship aspirations, missing the CFP cut often translates to a palpable sense of disapp...

  The new year is just around the corner. With 2024 coming, the comic book industry is about to embark on a heroic journey with untold consequences that will forever change our relationship with comics. The future of the comics still looks bright, in view of advancing technology and changing consumer tastes combined with popular culture’s effect. Digital Dominance The most important trend of all that has been affected is the increasingly popular digital comics. A: They will always have a fan base, but within the last five years or so digital comics in particular have captured some ground. In 2024, more digital comics will truly be revolutionary. Now that smartphones, tablets and e-readers have become available in such great numbers, readers can get their eyes on a whole library of comics with just the touch of an index. With subscription services like ComiXology and Marvel Unlimited, it has become easier for readers to get their hands on them. These shops are sure to expand their l...

  As an ardent Ohio State football fan, I’ve witnessed firsthand the intense rivalries, the electrifying atmosphere on game days, and the sheer talent that graces the college football stage. However, with the recent developments in Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) rights, the landscape of college football, especially its recruitment and entertainment facets, is poised for a significant transformation. Understanding the NIL Impact NIL rights allow college athletes to profit from their personal brand, something that was previously forbidden and led to numerous controversies. These rights have opened the floodgates for players to earn through endorsements, social media, and personal appearances. While this is a monumental step towards recognizing the efforts and influence of student-athletes, it also raises questions about the future of college football, particularly in recruitment and player retention. Recruitment Revolution Historically, powerhouse programs like Ohio State have attra...

  Ever since I was ten, my world has been vibrantly colored by the pages of comic books. The heroes, the villains, the intricate storylines — they were my escape, my inspiration. As I grew, so did my tastes, eventually veering off the beaten path of mainstream comics, like those from DC and Marvel, and finding a haven in the world of independent comics. In recent years, the popularity of indie comics has skyrocketed, and for good reasons. This surge isn’t just a trend; it’s a revolutionary shift in the comic book industry, where creative freedom and creator ownership are not just valued but celebrated. The Rise of Independent Comics The rise of independent comics can be attributed to a growing desire for diverse, original storytelling that steps outside the traditional boundaries set by the giants of the comic book world. Image Comics, for instance, became a beacon for creators seeking to retain full control over their creations. Unlike the tight creative constraints often found in...

  As a lifelong comic book enthusiast, my journey with superheroes began at a tender age, tracing the contours of vivid panels and getting lost in the labyrinth of speech bubbles. Superheroes were more than characters to me; they were the embodiment of ideals, courage, and creativity. However, as I’ve grown, so has my perspective on the superhero genre, especially in movies. There’s an ongoing debate in the world of cinema and among its fans about the prevalence of superhero movies. This phenomenon, often termed as “superhero fatigue,” is a sentiment I understand and empathize with, despite my deep-seated love for these characters and their worlds. The superhero genre has undoubtedly been a juggernaut in the movie industry for the past two decades. Characters like Spider-Man, Batman, and the Avengers have become cultural icons, transcending the pages of comic books to dominate the big screen. Their stories of heroism, moral dilemmas, and epic battles against villainy have captivate...

  Oh, what a shock this has been to Buckeye Nation, given the recent waves of players flowing into the transfer portal in 2023. Passionate debates have ensued among fans who are apprehensive about the future of our dear team. However, this situation requires us to take into account not only challenges but also to exploit opportunities that it provides for reconstructing and re-orientating our roster, so as we can contest for national championship in 2024 and defeat TTUN. The Transfer Portal: A Double-Edged Sword The most important thing let us discuss is the transfer portal elephant in the room. It should be understood that the exit of talented player is disheartening too. They have played a significant role in making the group successful and losing them might seem like a setback. But one essential point is that college football is changeable; moreover, nowadays, transfer portal dominates its landscape as well. This trend is not peculiar to Ohio State alone since other schools nati...