Inside the Utah Hockey Club's plan for long-term success​

There are two versions of Ryan Smith. There's the public-facing 40-something billionaire tech mogul who answers questions in a way that can be direct, earnest and open to admitting he might not have the right answer ... or an answer at all.

That's the version most people see. But there's also another version of Smith that's unapologetically Utahn. That version comes out in the way he talks about Salt Lake City, the state of Utah and the preconceived beliefs many people have about a place that they've likely never visited.

While the first version of Smith is the reason the Utah Hockey Club exists, it's the second version that is hell-bent on ensuring that the franchise is going to thrive in the most Utah way possible.

"I put everything in Utah. They said we couldn't build tech here, and we'd have to move to the Bay Area," Smith said. "We couldn't get venture funding here. We couldn't IPO a company from here. We couldn't sell. We proved every single person wrong.

"Then I think that people started believing, 'Holy cow. What's going on in Utah?' That's incredibly gratifying when you're fighting for a bigger cause."

This is the mission facing the Utah Hockey Club when it comes to achieving success long term. While the UHC is a new venture, the team relocated from Arizona where they were the Coyotes. Before that, they were the original Winnipeg Jets, relocating to the desert in 1996.

The club is trying to prove that Salt Lake City and Utah as a whole can support the NHL. It's trying to prove that it can make hockey a staple, just like the Utah Jazz have been doing in the NBA for several decades.

Perhaps the most important point the Utah Hockey Club could make is that as Salt Lake City keeps growing, so could the city's professional sports landscape.

"Utahns especially want to show they are more than a flyover state," said Josh Furlong, a broadcaster and the sports director for KSL. "They recognize they are not going to be Los Angeles, Seattle or New York. They want to showcase what Utah has to offer. You have a rabid fan base that will support your team. I think you have a bunch of people who want to showcase that. I don't know if it is some type of FOMO situation where they feel like they're not being included. But they want to be in that mix among the best places.

"You want people to feel what you see. You have this beautiful landscape, friendly people and a great atmosphere for sports culture."

"Utah! Getting bigger and better. Utah! Always leading the way. New technology is here. Growing faster each year. This is the place!"

Those are lyrics from "Utah ... This Is The Place." Written in 1996, it later became the state song in 2003. At the time of the song's creation, Utah was on the verge of announcing itself to more of the world, using sports and entertainment as a mechanism.

The Jazz reached three straight Western Conference finals from 1996 through 1998, with two NBA Finals appearances. Salt Lake City received international exposure during the 2002 Winter Olympic Games. In 2005, the University of Utah was the first school to have the No. 1 picks in both the NBA and NFL drafts in the same year, with Andrew Bogut and Alex Smith. The state's fortune was also extended to film in 2004 when a few graduates of BYU's film school made the coming of age cult classic "Napoleon Dynamite."

Decades later, it appears Utah could once again be following a similar path, but with more to gain.

Utah Hockey Club president of hockey operations Chris Armstrong didn't quote the lyrics from the state song when asked about the future. But his words resemble a similar sentiment when he mentions Utah having the nation's No. 3 economy and the youngest state based on median age (30.7 years old).

"It's a unique moment in time where we're building something new from the ground up and we get to do it with everybody here," Armstrong said. "So that is why we see a successful and thriving future. It's only continuing to grow that outpaces most cities in North America, and we think that's a great opportunity for a new sports franchise."



The history of sports fandom in Utah began with major college programs BYU and the University of Utah establishing athletic programs. Smaller schools such as Southern Utah, Utah State, Utah Valley and Weber State have also built followings in various sports.

Professional sports came on the scene in 1979 when the Jazz relocated from New Orleans and eventually became one of the NBA's most successful franchises throughout the 1980s, 1990s and early 2000s.

MLS came to the area in 2004 with Real Salt Lake, which averages 20,291 fans per game, and extends to the Utah Royals of the NWSL, a team that was revived in 2024. The Royals' first game drew 20,370 fans which set a state record for the most fans at a women's sporting event.
.
.
.
continued

Just sayin': An interesting story on the Utah Hockey Club.

Florida Basketball Coach Todd Golden accused of sexual harassment, stalking in Title IX complaint​

he University of Florida’s men’s basketball coach is accused of sexually harassing, exploiting, and stalking female students according to a Title IX complaint.

That complaint was sent anonymously to TV20 and other media organizations. The Title IX investigation document alleges Todd Golden made unwanted sexual advances on social media, requested sexual favors, and sent photos of his genitalia while traveling for UF.

He’s alleged to have taken photos of women and their cars, and later sent them the photos.

Multiple times he’s accused of showing up at locations he knew the women would be.

To avoid detection online, he’s alleged to have “liked” women’s Instagram photos, waited for them to see the notification, then “un-liked” the images.
.
.
.
continued

Florida basketball coach Todd Golden facing Title IX stalking probe​

Florida Gators men's basketball coach Todd Golden is the subject of a Title IX investigation following allegations of sexual harassment, stalking and cyberstalking from multiple women, including students, according to a complaint sent anonymously to Gainesville media outlets and later obtained by ESPN on Friday.

Florida received a formal Title IX complaint against Golden on Sept. 27 that includes allegations of sexual exploitation, sexual harassment and stalking, The Alligator, the university's independent student newspaper, first reported.

Golden, 39, aimed these behaviors toward Florida students and former Florida students, according to the Title IX complaint, which was also obtained by WCJB TV20 in Gainesville.

The Title IX complaint includes allegations that Golden sent photos and videos of his genitalia, made unwanted sexual advances on Instagram and requested sexual favors.

On multiple occasions, Golden allegedly took photos of women walking or driving -- or their cars in various locations -- and then sent those photos to the subjects of the photos. He also allegedly showed up to locations where he knew the women would be, according to the Title IX complaint.

University spokeswoman Cynthia Roldan Hernandez refused a request Friday to provide a copy of the complaint and declined to answer any questions about Golden, a married father of two young boys. Hernandez said that in order to "comply with federal law" the university could not confirm or comment on any Title IX complaint.

Title IX is regulated by the U.S. Department of Education. ESPN confirmed with federal education officials Friday that a school can disclose whether an employee has been accused of sexual harassment in a Title IX complaint if such disclosure is required under another federal or state law.
.
.
.
continued

Just sayin': In the not too distant future Florida could be looking for both a new football and a new basketball coach.

MC&J: Week 11 in the Big Ten sees Ohio State as a massive favorite over Purdue
Brett Ludwiczak via our friends at Land-Grant Holy Land
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here


Photo by Scott Taetsch/Getty Images

The Buckeyes will look for an easy win on Saturday in Columbus. Plus, picks for the five other Big Ten games this week.

Last week ATS: 8-7 (3-4 National, 5-3 B1G)

Season ATS: 83-87 (33-36 National, 50-51 B1G

My picks for this week’s interesting games outside the Big Ten can be found here.

---

Big Ten games (All games Saturday unless noted):​

Iowa (-5.5) v. UCLA - Friday 9:00 p.m. ET - FOX

The Hawkeyes continued their recent strong form, scoring 40 points for the third time in the last four games. Northwestern transfer Brendan Sullivan started last week with Cade McNamara in concussion protocol. Sullivan didn’t have to do much since Kaleb Johnson continued his tremendous season, rushing for 135 yards and three scores in the blowout of Wisconsin.

Another team that has been playing better football of late is UCLA, who has won their last two contests. In those victories, Ethan Garbers has totaled seven touchdowns. Garbers won’t have as easy of a time this week since he’ll be going up against one of the stingiest defenses in the country. Linebackers Jay Higgins and Nick Jackson will give Garbers and the Bruins all they can handle.

In their recent wins, UCLA has played a couple head cases in Rutgers and Nebraska. Iowa is a lot more sound on both sides of the football. The Hawkeyes will grind out the Bruins with defense followed by Kaleb Johnson, who again rushes for at least 100 yards and multiple touchdowns.

Iowa 30, UCLA 17

---

Minnesota (-6.5) v. Rutgers - 12:00 p.m. ET - NBC

Will this be the Athan Kaliakmanis revenge game? The quarterback transferred to Rutgers after starting his college career at Minnesota. Kaliakmanis is coming off his best yardage performance of the season, throwing for 313 yards. Unfortunately for Rutgers, Kaliakmanis had to throw more since the Scarlet Knights lost to USC 42-20. Along with the blowout, running back Kyle Monangai left the game in the third quarter with a head injury.

Minnesota has been one of the hottest teams in the country over the last month, winning their last four games. Last week, the Golden Gophers went on the road and beat Illinois 25-17. Running back Darius Taylor recorded his third 100-yard game of the season, finishing with 131 yards in the win.

This is a game between teams headed in opposite directions. Minnesota has won four straight, while Rutgers has lost four in a row. Even though the Scarlet Knights had a bye last week, it’s hard to see them snapping their recent skid, especially with Monangai’s health in question. Minnesota wins by at least a touchdown in New Jersey.

Minnesota 31, Rutgers 20

---

Michigan v. No. 8 Indiana (-13.5) - 3:30 p.m. ET - CBS

This has been a dream season for the Hoosiers. Last week Indiana trailed for the first time this season, as Michigan State jumped out to a 10-0 lead. All the Hoosiers did was reel off 47 unanswered points to stay undefeated. After missing the Washington game, Kurtis Rourke returned to the field last week, tossing four touchdowns.

Photo by Adam Ruff/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images

At least Michigan showed a little bit of fight last week, pulling to within 28-17 in the second half before Oregon added 10 more points. The Wolverines should be encouraged that Davis Warren and Colston Loveland formed a bit of a connection, since Loveland is their biggest threat through the air.

Indiana comes into this game on a high after being projected into the College Football Playoff after the first reveal of the rankings. Curt Cignetti knows his team can’t let off the gas, especially with a trip to Columbus coming in a couple weeks. The Hoosiers stay perfect with another dominant performance against a Michigan team that is reeling.

Indiana 34, Michigan 14

---

Maryland v. No. 1 Oregon (-24.5) - 7:00 p.m. ET - Big Ten Network

The consistency of Oregon on offense has been incredible. Over the last six games, the Ducks have scored at least 31 points, but no more than 38. The Ducks did take a hit last week when Tez Johnson was injured against Michigan. Even without Johnson, Oregon still has plenty of weapons on offense.

Maryland is not a good football team. The Terrapins have lost three of their last four games, with their only win coming at home against a broken USC squad. Last time out, Maryland gave up 48 points to noted offensive juggernaut Minnesota.

I just don’t see how the Terrapins keep this one close. The defense of Oregon has been tough to crack this year, and I have no reason to think that Maryland will cause them any issues. The Ducks break 40 points for the first time since September.

Oregon 44, Maryland 13

---

Washington v. No. 6 Penn State (-13.5) - 8:00 p.m. ET - Peacock

Getting up for a game after playing Ohio State is always tough. Luckily for Penn State they’ll get some added juice from the “White Out” on Saturday night. The Nittany Lions can’t wallow after the loss to the Buckeyes since they are currently projected to host a first round playoff game.

Photo by John Fisher/Getty Images

Washington was able to earn a much needed win last week, beating USC in Seattle 26-21. The win doesn’t fix the struggles of the Huskies, though. Washington still has issues generating offense, and those struggles will be magnified by a hungry Penn State defense.

The Nittany Lions are going to take out their frustrations on Washington on Saturday night. The atmosphere in State College is going to be too much for Jedd Fisch’s team to handle as Warren rebounds with a big game after Ohio State slowed down the talented tight end.

Penn State 35, Washington 17

---

Purdue v. No. 2 Ohio State (-37.5) - 12:00 p.m. ET - FOX

Ohio State enters this game coming off a huge win at Penn State last week. The Buckeyes desperately needed the win because it would have been a tough argument for the Buckeyes to be a part of the College Football Playoff with two losses, especially with the insanely soft non-conference schedule they played. Ohio State now controls their own destiny when it comes to earning a spot in the Big Ten Championship Game next month.

While the defense has stepped up following the Oregon game, the Ohio State offense has been lacking, scoring just 41 points over the last two games. Some of those issues can be attributed to the play of the offensive line against Nebraska, and last week the Buckeyes went up against a very tough Penn State defense.

At least last week the rushing attack was more productive than they were against Nebraska. Chip Kelly needs to continue to put the ball in the hands of Quinshon Judkins and TreVeyon Henderson to try and capitalize off of last week’s positive performance.

Purdue has really fallen on hard times after Jeff Brohm left for Louisville following the 2022 season. The Boilermakers have only scored more than 20 points in two of their eight games this season. The lack of offense has been a huge reason why Purdue has lost seven straight games.

Despite having two productive running backs in Devin Mockobee and Reggie Love III, the offense of the Boilermakers seems to favor the pass. Quarterback Hudson Card could be in trouble on Saturday since the Buckeyes can tee off on the Texas transfer because Ohio State knows Purdue wants to throw the football.

I always feel bad when I talk bad about Purdue since my uncle is a Boilermaker. Unfortunately it is unavoidable this year since Purdue has been so bad. The Buckeyes need to jump out on the Boilers early and leave no doubt so they can protect their starters since they close out the regular season with Indiana and Michigan.

There’s no reason this game should be close with these teams being on opposite ends of the Big Ten standings. This contest should have about as much suspense as the non-conference games for Ohio State did this year.

Ohio State 51, Purdue 10

Continue reading...

Previewing Ohio State football’s game against Purdue: Buckeye Talk podcast - cleveland.com
via Google News using key phrase "Buckeyes".

Previewing Ohio State football’s game against Purdue: Buckeye Talk podcast cleveland.com

Continue reading...

Ohio State has a huge recruiting weekend on tap vs. Purdue with an Alabama flip target in Columbus headlining things - AtoZ Sports
via Google News using key phrase "Buckeyes".

Ohio State has a huge recruiting weekend on tap vs. Purdue with an Alabama flip target in Columbus headlining things AtoZ Sports

Continue reading...

Life in Simulation: EA CFB 25 predicts Ohio State vs. Purdue
Gene Ross via our friends at Land-Grant Holy Land
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here


Photo by Gregory Fisher/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images

The virtual Buckeyes take on the virtual Boilermakers in Week 11.

College football finally returned to the virtual world in 2024 with the release of EA Sports College Football 25, allowing fans of all 134 FBS schools to take control of their favorite team. For Buckeye Nation, that means getting to dominate with one of the best rosters in the game.

The new game also allows us to get a glimpse at what the season could look like, at least if the computers had their say. Each week, Land-Grant Holy Land will simulate Ohio State’s real-life matchup to see what our AI overlords think will happen.

Here are the results of our Week 11 sim:

Ohio State 45 - Purdue 10​

Ohio State is looking to return home and build off the momentum from its impressive win over Penn State last weekend, and the virtual Buckeyes did just that this week with an easy victory over a lowly Purdue squad. It was a huge day for Will Howard and Jeremiah Smith as Ryan Day’s unit jumped all over the Boilermakers.

It was all Ohio State right from the jump in this one, as Smith hauled in a 45-yard touchdown catch on the team’s first drive of the game to give the Buckeyes an immediate 7-0 lead. Gee Scott Jr. followed that up with an 18-yard touchdown a short while later, and Jayden Fielding’s 28-yard field goal to end the quarter made it 17-0 after the first frame.

Purdue tried to fight back a little bit, scoring on a 1-yard touchdown run by Reggie Love III to open the second quarter, but that was quickly negated by a 34-yard TD by Carnell Tate to make it 24-7. The Boilermakers would add three more points at the end of the first half on a 50-yard field goal, and so the game wasn’t entirely out of reach just yet as the two sides headed into the break with Ohio State up 24-10.

From there, the Buckeyes suffocated Purdue on defense, and Jeremiah Smith did the rest. Ohio State would score the only three touchdowns of the second half — all by Smith on plays of 18 yards, 45 yards and 82 yards — and the Silver Bullets took the ball away twice on an interception by Jordan Hancock and a forced fumble by Sonny Styles as the home team left no doubt about their victory.

It was an insane day for the freshman wide receiver, making up for his first scoreless performance of the season against Penn State. Smith finished the game with eight catches for an eye-popping 223 yards and four (!) touchdowns. He was far an away the favorite target for Howard, who had a fantastic bounce back game in his own right with 391 yards passing and six touchdowns. Egbuka added six catches for 94 yards, while Gee Scott Jr. had two grabs for 39 yards.

It was a strangely quiet day for Ohio State’s ground game, as TreVeyon Henderson and Quinshon Judkins finished with a combined 88 yards on 23 carries, good for only 3.8 yards per attempt. The Buckeyes’ longest rush of the day was actually by Egbuka, who picked up 28 yards on his only carry of the afternoon. Still, the Ohio State offense managed 540 yards of total offense thanks to a big showing through the air.

Ohio State’s defense was impressive as well, racking up four sacks in the contest — one apiece by Styles, Jack Sawyer, Tyler Bourne (J.T. Tuimoloau) and Kayden McDonald. Cody Simon was the tackles leader in the game with eight, followed by Caleb Downs and Davison Igbinson with seven each. Hancock had the team’s lone interception and also broke up two passes. As a group, the Buckeyes held Purdue to 6-of-17 on third down and 0-for-2 on fourth down.

---

While the real life Buckeyes are 7-1 with a chance to move to 8-1, the virtual Buckeyes move to a perfect 9-0 on the year. Check back next week to see how Ohio State actually performed on the field compared to the simulation, and see how they fare in our Week 12 simulation against Northwestern.

Continue reading...

Meet the multiple versions of Ohio State women’s star freshman Jaloni Cambridge
ThomasCostello via our friends at Land-Grant Holy Land
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here


Photo by Kirk Irwin/Getty Images

The first-year Buckeye spent each quarter introducing a different side of herself to the NCAA basketball world

On Tuesday, Ohio State women’s basketball started the season against mid-major Cleveland State. As the sound of the final buzzer stopped the 104-69 one-sided Buckeyes’ victory, freshman point guard Jaloni Cambridge already finished a debut performance for the record books.

In 26 minutes, Cambridge scored 31 points and added 6 rebounds, 6 assists, 5 steals and 2 blocks. A historic program performance, as the first freshman in Ohio State history, to start their first college game and score over 30 points.

More than Kelsey Mitchell’s 26 points on Nov. 14, 2014, or a 10-point performance from Katie Smith, whose name hangs in the rafters of the Schottenstein Center.

According to OptaSTATS, nobody in the NBA, WNBA, or Division I men’s or women’s basketball has a better introduction than Cambridge in the last 25 years. Making it stand out even more was the efficiency. Cambridge went 12-for-14 from the floor, and 2-for-3 from deep.

So, a pretty good night for the freshman point guard.

Look deeper into the stats and Cambridge spent her 26 minutes on the court Tuesday showing fans all the versions of what made her the No. 1 point guard in the nation. Each quarter, Cambridge rolled out another facet of her game to expect.

---

First Quarter​

Cambridge got the Buckeyes’ scoring going 52 seconds into the game. After Cleveland State earned their lone lead of the game, starting the night with a three-point shot by Sara Guerriero, Cambridge moved Ohio State up the court.

The guard took a few steps into the arc and pulled up for a midrange jumper. A clean shot that didn’t touch the rim or hit the backboard to score Cambridge’s first college points.

A shot as smooth as Cambridge’s demeanor heading into what would be a historic performance.

“I didn’t really have any nerves,” said Cambridge. “I was just excited to be here, just blessed to be on a big environment, be here with amazing people.”

Cambridge added three more midrange jumpers in the first quarter, making all four in the first 10 minutes, plus her first assist on a three-point shot by forward Cotie McMahon. It was an offense started by Cambridge’s work on the defensive end of the court.

The point guard, now leading the Buckeyes’ full-court press with former Ohio State guard Jacy Sheldon watching on, the person who was in Cambridge’s role the past five seasons, grabbed the steal on the eventual McMahon three-point shot.

It was the first of four for the freshman in the victory, something her teammate applauded after the win.

“I honestly think we were a fast team last year, but this team, I feel like we’re just very quick, very fast,” said McMahon. “So 22 [Cambridge] is going to be really good for us as far as what we have.”

Those steals weren’t all on individual effort, but part of a team excelling. A team that lived up to head coach Kevin McGuff’s comments all offseason about the talent of the new batch of Buckeyes.

For good measure, the 5-foor-7 guard also had a block in the quarter. Then, in the second quarter, Cambridge introduced another aspect of her game.

---

Second Quarter​

Seemingly bored with midrange shots, Cambridge took a few steps back in the second. In the first minute, the point guard hit two three-point shots. On the second, it came off another Ohio State forced turnover.

BACK TO BACK THREES TO KICK OFF THE SECOND QUARTER ️@JaloniCambridge | #GoBucks pic.twitter.com/5afLAiCRr4

— Ohio State Women’s Basketball (@OhioStateWBB) November 5, 2024​

Click to expand...

“I was feeling good. I just got to my spots,” said Cambridge. “My teammates allowed me to get to my right spots and just had the confidence in me to just make those shots.”

Cambridge did miss a third attempt in the quarter, dropping her shooting to a paltry 6-for-7, but added another steal and block, and the Buckeyes took a 42-24 lead into the halftime locker room. The point guard led all scorers with 14 points.

Defensively, the point guard matchup between Cambridge and reigning Horizon League Player of the Year Colbi Maples ended with Maples scoring three points on 1-for-5 shooting in the half.

---

Third Quarter​

If the first half was there to highlight sharpshooting, the second half showed how Cambridge can turn on the jets.

Ohio State had its best scoring quarter of the night in the third, tacking on 33 points, 12 of which came from Cambridge.

The freshman spent the quarter showing what Cambridge can do when she attacks the paint. On one drive, Cambridge grabbed a rebound on the defensive end of the court and took it straight to the basket. Well, not exactly straight at it because in the process Cambridge went around three Cleveland State defenders before hitting the layup and a trip to the free throw line.

Cambridge had four free throws in the third quarter because each time she went up to score it was going right at the face of the opponent.

You just cannot stop Jaloni. pic.twitter.com/LGIa11ooeV

— Ohio State Women’s Basketball (@OhioStateWBB) November 6, 2024​

Click to expand...

The guard missed her second shot of the day in the third, but ultimately that doesn’t matter in what was an all-around performance from the new Buckeye guard.

“She obviously displayed how talented she is. Probably more importantly, the poise that she plays with, the maturity she has,” said McGuff. “And to see her have the game that she has from a points perspective, but as importantly, make everybody around her better. Play both ends of the floor, really impressive debut for her.”

---

Fourth Quarter​

Cambridge added five more points in the fourth, but had her best assist quarter of the night, playing half the quarter.

The guard had three of her six assists in her final five minutes. Finding fellow new Buckeye guard Chance Gray. Cambridge found Gray for two three-point shots, the first of the night for the junior shooting guard out of Cincinnati, Ohio.

It gave the Buckeyes a performance where all 10 players at least hit a basket in the victory. Cambridge’s night was talked about throughout the NCAA basketball world, for good reason, which isn’t a concern for McGuff.

“One of the great things about where our sport is right now is there’s an incredible amount of coverage from the media in all forms, which is awesome,” said McGuff. “And so I think she’s obviously gonna get a lot of attention. And the thing I love about it is she wants to be here, she wants to play, she likes her teammates and she wants to win. And I don’t think it will affect her in a way that it might affect some other people.”

Tuesday was one game out of 29 games for the Buckeyes this regular season. A season that includes games against the likes of USC, Stanford and Maryland. How will Cambridge perform when the opponents' difficulty level increases?

Cambridge’s debut performance will be hard to replicate day in and day out. Play with those stats each night and Cambridge would end her NCAA career as by far the best player in the sport’s history, which is unrealistic to expect.

Even so, now fans know the capabilities of an outstanding freshman. A game that gets fans excited and opponents equally excited but at the chance of stopping it from happening to them.

Continue reading...

Bold Predictions as Ohio State returns home for matchup against Purdue - On3.com
via Google News using key phrase "Buckeyes".

Bold Predictions as Ohio State returns home for matchup against Purdue On3.com

Continue reading...

Which Ohio State prospects are visiting for the Purdue game? - cleveland.com
via Google News using key phrase "Buckeyes".

Which Ohio State prospects are visiting for the Purdue game? cleveland.com

Continue reading...

Ryan Day, Buckeyes are focused on Purdue; get prepped for Saturday’s game
Matt Tamanini via our friends at Land-Grant Holy Land
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here


Photo by Justin Casterline/Getty Images

All the Buckeye news thats fit to re-print.

Look, we get it. Your days are busy and you don’t have time to read all of the stories and tweets from the three dozen websites dedicated to covering Ohio State athletics, or the 237 Buckeye beat writers churning out hot takes and #content on a daily basis. But that’s ok, that’s what your friends at Land-Grant Holy Land are here for.

Monday through Friday, we’ll be collecting all of the articles, tweets, features, interviews, videos, podcasts, memes, photos, and whatever else we stumble across on the interwebz and putting them in our daily “Why is this News?” article. That way, you’ll have a one-stop shop for all of the most important Buckeye news, jokes, and analysis.

You’re welcome!

---

For your Earholes...​

Subscribe to the Land-Grant Podcast Network for all of your Ohio State needs
Matt Tamanini, Land-Grant Holy Land


Subscribe: RSS | Apple | Spotify | iHeart Radio

---

On the Gridiron​

Things you need to know about the Purdue Boilermakers — and a few you don’t need to know, but are fun anyway
Josh Dooley, Land-Grant Holy Land

3 keys to victory for Ohio State football against Purdue
Joey Kaufman, The Columbus Dispatch

Three Keys for Buckeyes in home matchup against Purdue
Spencer Holbrook, Lettermen Row

Ryan Day Radio Show: While Proud of Ohio State’s Win at Penn State, Ryan Day Says the Buckeyes Must “Execute Better Across the Board” Moving Forward
Chase Brown, Eleven Warriors

Football: Buckeyes Spoke to the Media Ahead of Purdue Game
Ohio State Athletics

2014 @OhioStateFB recruiting class 2024 Washington Commanders pic.twitter.com/882l1oauxK

— Washington Commanders (@Commanders) November 7, 2024​

Click to expand...

Ohio State’s rebuilt offensive line puts them right back in the lead for the national title
Matt Tamanini, Land-Grant Holy Land

Will key touchdown catch vs. Penn State propel Brandon Inniss to bigger role?
Spencer Holbrook, Lettermen Row

How eye-catching grades at Penn State impact Buckeyes moving forward
Austin Ward, Dotting The Eyes

Kayden McDonald Proving He Can Set New Lines of Scrimmage in Big Moments for Ohio State
Andy Anders, Eleven Warriors

Will Caleb Downs’ role at punt returner for Ohio State grow?
Joey Kaufman, The Columbus Dispatch


A First Look at the Wrigley Football Field Where Ohio State Will Play Northwestern Next Week
Dan Hope, Eleven Warriors

Ohio State offers 2026 Georgia running back, expect more guests on campus this weekend
Caleb Houser, Land-Grant Holy Land

---

On the Hardwood​

It’s okay to get your hopes up about this Ohio State men’s basketball team
Connor Lemons, Land-Grant Holy Land

How did Ohio State’s Jake Diebler prepare for his first game of the year?
Adam Jardy, The Columbus Dispatch

Presser Bullets: Jake Diebler Says Buckeyes Must Continue to “Earn the Right” to Play Well in Practice, Confidence Comes Easy for Freshman John Mobley Jr.
Andy Anders, Eleven Warriors

Women’s Basketball: McMahon and Petty Named to Wooden Award Preseason Watch List
Ohio State Athletics

---

Outside the Shoe and Schott​

Wrestling: Davino Earns B1G Freshman of the Week
Ohio State Athletics

---

And now for something completely different...​

Welp, my nine-year-old nephew has a new favorite Buckeye:

Davison Igbinosun hit the Ronaldo SUIIIIIII celebration after that wild interception @ohiostatefb pic.twitter.com/Azze3nNdZ0

— FOX College Football (@CFBONFOX) November 2, 2024​

Click to expand...

Continue reading...

Ohio State football vs. Purdue score predictions: Are the Buckeyes preparing for a blowout? - cleveland.com
via Google News using key phrase "Buckeyes".

1. Ohio State football vs. Purdue score predictions: Are the Buckeyes preparing for a blowout? cleveland.com
2. Three Keys for Buckeyes in home matchup against Purdue On3.com
3. Game Data: Following win at Penn State, Buckeyes back home to host Purdue 247Sports

Continue reading...

Ohio State makes the cut for a top 2026 receiver target, set to host 2025 flip target at running back
Caleb Houser via our friends at Land-Grant Holy Land
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here


Devin Carter | 247Sports

The Buckeyes make the cut for 2026 receiver Devin Carter.

Ohio State is hoping to see its 2026 class start to grow sooner rather than later. Just one commit locked in thanks to wide receiver Chris Henry Jr., this staff knows they will eventually see their efforts pay off. It does feel like a bit of a slower start commit wise, though the Buckeyes do have the top player in the country per the 247Sports Composite already locked in.

Brian Hartline having his typical early and often success is no surprise, and on Thursday the Buckeyes saw some positive news for another elite receiver target when five-star talent Devin Carter trimmed his top schools list down to just 12 remaining finalists.

A 6-foot, 165 pound athlete from Douglasville, Georgia, Carter currently holds over 30 offers to his name from every major program out there, so narrowing it down to just 11 is a sign of his desire to start getting closer to a final decision. Making the cut, Ohio State is joined by Alabama, Auburn, Georgia, Louisville, LSU, Miami, Ole Miss, Texas, and Texas A&M.

The No. 21 player nationally and third best receiver in the 2026 class per the 247Sports Composite, Ohio State staying in the mix here is a great sign as they continue to appeal to top receivers around the country. Of course, seeing Jeremiah Smith having an incredible impact as a true freshman has to appeal to top players who believe they too can see the field early.

From here, getting Carter back to Columbus will be the top priority if Ohio State really wants to have a chance at landing his future commitment. For now, they have made the list and can continue pitching why they’re the best destination at developing his position for the next level.

NEWS: Elite 2026 WR Devin Carter is down to Schools, he tells me for @on3recruits

The 6’0 170 WR from Douglasville, GA is ranked as a Top 30 Recruit in the ‘26 Class (No. 5 WR) per On3 Industry

Where Should He Go? https://t.co/urGVFaKgYW pic.twitter.com/zu4EcTVbhv

— Hayes Fawcett (@Hayesfawcett3) November 7, 2024​

Click to expand...

Can the Buckeyes pull an upset this late in the game? ​

It’s no secret that Ohio State and running back’s coach Carlos Locklyn are trying hard to flip current Alabama commit, Anthony Rogers. An Alabama native and pledge since June of 2023, Rogers is not typically a player you’d see any school having a chance at flipping away from the Crimson Tide, but the attention he’s shown the Buckeyes as of late isn’t something to totally dismiss either.

The No. 141 player nationally and eighth best at his position per the 247Sports Composite the 2025 class, Ohio State is having him on campus this weekend for his official visit. A chance to really show him all they are about, it doesn’t hurt either to see Alabama also sending out another 2025 running back offer this week. Maybe it means something maybe it doesn’t, but you have to believe Locklyn and the rest of the staff will work hard to make this trip to Columbus a memorable one.

The Buckeyes do already have two running backs in the 2025 class thanks to Bo Jackson and Isaiah West, but the plan all along was to take three, and Rogers would be a take immediately if he wanted in. Not a loss if he sticks with his commitment, but this staff will still try and it begins on Saturday with a great game day visit and beyond.

Quick Hits​

• Per Mick Walker of Letterman Row, Ohio State will also play host this weekend to four-star tight-end, Corbyn Fordham. A 6-foot-3, 215 pound Florida native, Fordham is currently the No. 306 player nationally and 16th best at his position per the 247Sports Composite for the 2026 class.

Holding an Ohio State offer to his name already, this visit is a chance for Keenan Bailey to get more familiar with his target as he looks to land his first for the upcoming cycle.

NEWS: Four-star TE Corbyn Fordham (@Fordhamcorbyn) will visit Ohio State for the Purdue game

Fordham, the No. 330 overall prospect in the On3 Industry Rankings, is a top target for tight ends coach Keenan Bailey in the 2026 class

MORE: https://t.co/oAucN9J1cm pic.twitter.com/oDmc7BD6Ib

— Mick Walker (@mickdwalker) November 7, 2024​

Click to expand...

Continue reading...

Is Ohio State's 3-point barrage against Texas a sign of what's to come this year? - The Columbus Dispatch
via Google News using key phrase "Buckeyes".

Is Ohio State's 3-point barrage against Texas a sign of what's to come this year? The Columbus Dispatch

Continue reading...

Ohio State Buckeyes Plan to Dominate Purdue with Physical Play | Ohio State Buckeyes Podcast - WCNC.com
via Google News using key phrase "Buckeyes".

Ohio State Buckeyes Plan to Dominate Purdue with Physical Play | Ohio State Buckeyes Podcast WCNC.com

Continue reading...

Wondering what could have been for this former Ohio State football player - Scarlet and Game
via Google News using key phrase "Buckeyes".

Wondering what could have been for this former Ohio State football player Scarlet and Game

Continue reading...

How the new College Football Playoff will work - Axios
via Google News using key phrase "Buckeyes".

How the new College Football Playoff will work Axios

Continue reading...

What channel is Ohio State vs Purdue? Time, TV schedule to watch Week 11 game - The Columbus Dispatch
via Google News using key phrase "Buckeyes".

1. What channel is Ohio State vs Purdue? Time, TV schedule to watch Week 11 game The Columbus Dispatch
2. Three Keys for Buckeyes in home matchup against Purdue On3.com
3. (Wednes)Day: Buckeyes get good news on the injury front 247Sports

Continue reading...

Presser Bullets: Jake Diebler Says Buckeyes Must Continue to “Earn the Right” to Play Well in Practice, Co - Eleven Warriors
via Google News using key phrase "Buckeyes".

Presser Bullets: Jake Diebler Says Buckeyes Must Continue to “Earn the Right” to Play Well in Practice, Co Eleven Warriors

Continue reading...

Buckeyes men's basketball team prepares for home opener - Fox 28
via Google News using key phrase "Buckeyes".

Buckeyes men's basketball team prepares for home opener Fox 28

Continue reading...

Urban Meyer Unveils Very Strong Take About Ohio State's Chances - Sports Illustrated
via Google News using key phrase "Buckeyes".

Urban Meyer Unveils Very Strong Take About Ohio State's Chances Sports Illustrated

Continue reading...

FOX executive hints at another noon kickoff for next year’s Penn State Ohio State game - Victory Bell Rings
via Google News using key phrase "Buckeyes".

FOX executive hints at another noon kickoff for next year’s Penn State Ohio State game Victory Bell Rings

Continue reading...

Buckeyes men's basketball team prepares for home opener - Fox 28
via Google News using key phrase "Buckeyes".

Buckeyes men's basketball team prepares for home opener Fox 28

Continue reading...

Buckeyes men's basketball team prepares for home opener - The CW Columbus
via Google News using key phrase "Buckeyes".

Buckeyes men's basketball team prepares for home opener The CW Columbus

Continue reading...

MC&J: Ranked showdowns between Georgia-Ole Miss, Alabama-LSU pace Week 11 nationally
Brett Ludwiczak via our friends at Land-Grant Holy Land
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here


Photo by David Rosenblum/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images

A couple SEC squads could see their CFP hopes dashed on Saturday. Plus, picks for five other interesting national contests.

Last week ATS: 8-7 (3-4 National, 5-3 B1G)

Season ATS: 83-87 (33-36 National, 50-51 B1G)

Last week started out promising but ended with a fizzle, since it seems like I missed about every game I picked in the evening session. Even with the ugly finish, we still were able to gain a game on .500, making two straight weeks with at least a positive record.

With a number of weeks left in the regular season to do some damage, we are hoping to make it a third-straight week with more winners than losers.

---

National games​

No. 4 Miami (FL) (-10.5) v. Georgia Tech - 12:00 p.m. ET - ESPN

The Hurricanes have been playing with the food a bit recently. Miami went back-and-forth with Louisville a few weeks ago before securing a 52-45 win. Last week the Hurricanes found themselves trailing Duke before going on a 36-3 run to end the game and cover against the Blue Devils. Cam Ward continued to state his case to be a Heisman Trophy finalist, throwing for 400 yards and five touchdowns in last week’s win.

Photo by Ric Tapia/Getty Images

Georgia Tech started the season on a high note by beating Florida State over in Ireland. The win doesn’t look nearly as impressive since now we know just how terrible the Seminoles are. Quarterback Haynes King has missed the last two games with an injury. The Yellow Jackets lost both of those games, putting up just 19 points in losses to Notre Dame and Virginia Tech. Even if King is healthy enough to go, I’m not convinced Georgia Tech has enough pop to keep pace with an explosive Miami offense.

One thing I do know is head coach Mario Cristobal will kneel the clock out as soon as he has the chance to do so after last year’s gaffe. Miami received a jolt this week with the first CFP rankings, which have them slotted as the ACC champs, which would give them a bye in the first round. Asking the Hurricanes to win this game by 11 points doesn’t seem like too much.

Miami (FL) 42, Georgia Tech 24

---

No. 3 Georgia (-2.5) v. No. 16 Ole Miss - 3:30 p.m. ET - ABC

This looks like the type of game Lane Kiffin and Ole Miss often lose. The Rebels enter this game with a ton of confidence after beating Arkansas 63-31 last week. Jaxson Dart had himself a game against the Razorbacks, throwing for 515 yards and six touchdowns. Then again, last year there was a ton of hype surrounding Ole Miss heading into this game. Even I picked the Rebels to cover before Georgia whooped Ole Miss in Athens, 52-17.

What a strange season it has been so far for Carson Beck and Georgia. Beck has had major issues turning the football over this year, throwing three interceptions in three games. Luckily for Georgia they have been able to withstand the turnovers, winning two of those games, and nearly completing a miraculous comeback to beat Alabama in Tuscaloosa at the end of September. Even though the Bulldogs are heading towards a spot in the CFP, they don’t feel nearly as unbeatable as they have been over the last few years.

I’m not all that worried about Georgia having to hit the road for this game, since not only did they push Alabama to the limit in Tuscaloosa, they beat Texas 30-15 in Austin last month. Until Kiffin and the Rebels can prove to me they can win a game like this, I’ll have to bet against them. Dart and company just aren’t equipped to handle primetime as Beck and Georgia are.

Georgia 35, Ole Miss 23

---

No. 17 Iowa State (-2.5) v. Kansas - 3:30 p.m. ET - FS1

Kansas has to be wondering what might have been. The Jayhawks have been in almost every game this year, with five of their six losses coming by six points or less. Many were expecting quarterback Jalon Daniels to have a big year in 2024. Those expectations haven’t materialized, as Daniels has thrown nine interceptions and completed less than 60 percent of his pass attempts.

Iowa State saw their dreams of an undefeated season dashed last week when they were defeated 23-22 by Texas Tech in Ames. Despite the loss, the Cyclones still have a shot at making the College Football Playoff, they’ll just likely need to win the Big 12 to earn their spot in the 12-team tournament. With Colorado also sitting at 4-1 in the conference, Iowa State can’t afford to lose a second-straight game.

I’m probably taking too many road favorites this week, but I just feel like Iowa State has more toughness than Kansas does this year. While the Cyclones did lose a tight game last week, I do like their track record in one-score games this year over what we have seen from the Jayhawks this year. The Iowa State defense forces Daniels into making a few more mistakes, which swing the game in favor of the Cyclones.

Iowa State 27, Kansas 17

---

No. 23 Clemson (-6.5) v. Virginia Tech - 3:30 p.m. ET - ESPN

I’m really trying to talk myself into taking Virginia Tech in this game, but I just can’t do it. The Hokies have played some close games, with all four of their losses coming by seven points or less.

Last week quarterback Kyron Drones and running back Bhayshul Tuten weren’t able to play in the overtime loss to Syracuse. I’ll assume both will be able to play this week, but the Virginia Tech offense has a tough time throwing the football, allowing Clemson to load up against the run.

Unless Miami or SMU lose somewhere in the last month, Clemson is going to be kicking themselves for dropping last week’s game to Louisville. Running back Phil Mafah was outstanding in the loss, racking up 170 yards and two touchdowns on the ground. Quarterback Cade Klubnik has also been really good most of the season, tossing 21 touchdowns and throwing just three picks.

Lane Stadium doesn’t quite have the mystique it used to. The Hokies even lost to Rutgers in Blacksburg this year. Clemson is better in all areas than Virginia Tech is and should be able to bounce back from last week’s loss and win this game by at least a touchdown.

Clemson 31, Virginia Tech 20

---

No. 20 Colorado (-3.5) v. Texas Tech - 4:00 p.m. ET - FOX

I know I have been all over road favorites this week. In this game I’m going to slide over to the home underdog side. Texas Tech earned a huge win last week, beating Iowa State in Ames in some gnarly weather conditions. Running back Tahj Brooks continued his streak of rushing for at least 100 yards in each game he has played in this season, finishing the upset of the Cyclones with 122 yards.

Deion Sanders and Colorado can smell the Big 12 Championship Game, entering this week with a 4-1 record in the conference. Even though networks are hoping the Buffaloes find their way into the playoff, I know this Colorado squad still has some faults. What do they do if Shedeur Sanders and Travis Hunter are shut down? The Buffaloes don’t have the talent in the trenches to run the football with consistency.

Photo by John E. Moore III/Getty Images

Texas Tech and Behren Morton have the offense that can keep up with Colorado. All the Red Raiders need to do is get a few stops on defense. Plus, don’t sleep on weird things happening in Lubbock.

This could be a situation where Colorado comes out sleepy after a bye week, while Texas Tech is riding high after their win over Iowa State. I’m expecting plenty of points here, so I’ll take the points with the home team that’ll be looking for a second straight win over a ranked team.

Texas Tech 37, Colorado 34

---

No. 11 Alabama (-2.5) v. No. 15 LSU - 7:30 p.m. ET - ABC

Both teams in this game had last week off to digest their results from the previous week. Alabama had their best performance of the season, shutting out Missouri 34-0. What the Crimson Tide did right is get their running game going, racking up 271 yards on the ground against the Tigers. The easy win was necessary after the previous four games for Alabama were decided by seven points or less.

LSU has had to sit with a 38-23 loss to Texas A&M, where they had no answer for the Aggies and Marcel Reed on the ground in the second half. The lack of a rush defense is definitely a concern this week against a Crimson Tide squad that is riding high after gashing Missouri. While Death Valley at night is a setting opponents fear, I don’t think Alabama is quite as shook by it since the Crimson Tide are in so many prime time games in raucous environments.

In a game that’s a coin flip, I’ll go with the team that I think is better. I’m not sold on LSU having the defense to slow down the Crimson Tide. Even if the Tigers are able to bottle up Jam Miller and Justice Haynes, they still have to deal with Jalen Milroe finding freshman wide receiver Ryan Williams. In a game that likely eliminates the loser from playoff contention, Alabama keeps hope alive at least for a little longer.

Alabama 31, LSU 24

---

No. 9 BYU (-3.5) v. Utah - 10:15 p.m. ET - ESPN

Utah is down bad right now. In a season where the Utes were supposed to challenge for the Big 12 crown and a CFP spot, they have lost four games in a row, failing to score 20 points in any of those contests. It sounds like the college career of Cam Rising is now officially over after four decades since Rising has been ruled out for the rest of the season due to injury, leaving Isaac Wilson to take the snaps behind center.

The Holy War is now in the Big 12. What a time to be alive. The last time these rivals met was back in 2021 when BYU snapped Utah’s nine-game winning streak with a 26-17 win. Now the Cougars are undefeated and currently are the favorite to win the Big 12 and secure a first round bye in the playoff. The stats from BYU won’t blow you away this year, they just have a knack for putting so far this season to avoid suffering any losses.

I think this might be the week where BYU’s luck runs out. Coming off a bye, Utah could take some time to make Wilson more comfortable running the offense. The Utes have some nice pieces to go along with Wilson in running back Micah Bernard and tight end Brant Kuithe.

This has the feeling of a contest where Utah plays their best game of the season to upset their in-state foe. After forcing turnovers for most of the season, BYU commits some this week, which ends up being their downfall.

Utah 23, BYU 20

Continue reading...

Latest NIL offer details could impact Ohio State's hopes of landing another superstar SEC defender - AtoZ Sports
via Google News using key phrase "Buckeyes".

Latest NIL offer details could impact Ohio State's hopes of landing another superstar SEC defender AtoZ Sports

Continue reading...