Brad Kern

  In the heart of Columbus, Ohio resides a football program that’s not just full of spirit, but excellence as well. The Ohio State Buckeyes, draped in their iconic scarlet and grey attire are more than just a team. Buckeye Nation is an expectation; it’s pride for fans and the epitome of college football. It’s not just about winning; it’s winning it all. That national championship trophy represents everything that makes this team great. The Rich History The story of Ohio State Football can be characterized by resilience, unwavering spirit and success. Founded in 1890, they’ve grown from being nobodies to someone you don’t want to mess with. With over 900 wins, eight national championships and 39 conference titles; it’s safe to say they left their mark. Names like Chic Harley, Archie Griffin and Woody Hayes aren’t just names; they’re symbols of a legacy. The Winning Culture At Ohio State University winning isn’t enough; it’s about dominance. It’s about giving every ounce of effort po...

  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...

  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...

photo credit :  The Lantern In the realm of collegiate sports, especially football, it’s not just the players and the plays that make the game exciting; it’s the spirit of the fans that truly electrify the environment. And when it comes to the magnitude of fandom, few can contest the dominance of the Ohio State Buckeyes. According to various sources, this college football team has carved a niche for itself by boasting the most expansive fan base among all college football programs 1 . But what gives the Ohio State football team such an advantage? Let’s delve into the reasons. 1. Historical Significance and Tradition  The Ohio State football team, officially known as the Buckeyes, has a storied history dating back to 1890. Over the decades, the team has amassed numerous titles and honors. Such a rich tradition creates a generational fan base. Parents, grandparents, and even great-grandparents have passed down their passion for the Buckeyes from one generation to the next 2 . Th...

  The year 2014 was a watershed moment for college football in America. That was the year when the Bowl Championship Series (BCS) system was retired, making way for the inaugural College Football Playoff (CFP) era. As the dust settled, it was the Ohio State Buckeyes who emerged as the first-ever CFP National Champions, marking a new chapter in their storied history. The Preseason Uncertainties The season was fraught with challenges and uncertainties for Ohio State. The team’s star quarterback, Braxton Miller, was ruled out for the entire season due to a shoulder injury. It seemed like Ohio State’s championship dreams had already been dashed before the first snap of the ball. However, head coach Urban Meyer had other plans. Insert J.T. Barrett as the starting quarterback, and let’s not forget Cardale Jones, who would later become one of the heroes of the postseason. The Regular Season Roller Coaster The Buckeyes started their season with a win but stumbled in week two against Virgin...

  In the hypercompetitive world of college football, the mantra often seems to be, “What have you done for me lately?” Nowhere is this more evident than among the fan bases of powerhouse programs like Ohio State. For these communities, a good season isn’t good enough; they demand championships. Anything short of winning it all is often considered a failure — a disappointment that fuels hot takes, social media tirades, and even calls for coaching changes. Let’s delve into the intense, ever-demanding landscape of college football fandom in the modern era. The Weight of Tradition Teams like Ohio State carry the weight of a long and storied history, peppered with Heisman Trophies, national titles, and legendary coaches. This illustrious past is both a blessing and a curse. It endows the program with a rich tradition and a massive, devoted fan base. However, it also sets exceptionally high standards. A 10-win season without a national title can be seen as a letdown, and losing to arch-r...

  photo credit  https://www.si.com/college/2015/11/20/history-behind-ohio-states-legendary-script-ohio-routine In the landscape of American college football, few traditions are as iconic or deeply woven into the tapestry of a university’s identity as Ohio State’s “Script Ohio” and the subsequent “dotting of the i.” A spectacle that invokes chills and emotional surges for the fans, it’s not just a halftime show — it’s a revered ritual that symbolizes Buckeye pride. The Inception of Script Ohio The history of Script Ohio can be traced back to October 24, 1936, when the Ohio State Marching Band first performed the intricate maneuver. The concept was created by Eugene Weigel, who was the band’s director from 1933 to 1939. Weigel was inspired by the looping and swirls of a signature or script, hence the name “Script Ohio.” The idea was to spell out “Ohio” on the field in cursive script, creating a spectacle that would be visually enthralling from the stands. Contrary to popular bel...

Image credit  https://www.si.com/college/ohiostate/news/ohio-state-buckeyes-expect-use-dual-quarterback-system-indiana-game-kyle-mccord-devin-brown When one thinks of Ohio State football, terms like ‘dynasty,’ ‘tradition,’ and ‘legends’ immediately come to mind. The Buckeyes have a storied history of great quarterbacks, and the 2023 season offers yet another fascinating chapter. With Kyle McCord and Devin Brown vying for the coveted starting position, Head Coach Ryan Day faces a dilemma that could shape the program’s future. The weight of this decision goes beyond X’s and O’s; it’s about who will join the illustrious list of Buckeye legends. Not just an on-the-field leader, the quarterback at Ohio State becomes an integral part of a legacy that dates back decades. The choice will undoubtedly shape the course of the 2023 season and could reverberate through the program for years to come. The Duel of the Gunslingers Kyle McCord, a third-year sophomore, has already made a case for him...