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LGHL Land-Grant Tailgate Podcast: Everything you need to know to watch today’s Ohio State vs. Youngstown State game
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Land-Grant Tailgate Podcast: Everything you need to know to watch today’s Ohio State vs. Youngstown State 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
Adam Cairns/Columbus Dispatch / USA TODAY NETWORK
The only Ohio State game day podcast you need.
Before every Ohio State football game, Matt Tamanini will get you ready with all of the information that you need for that day’s game on the “LGHL Tailgate” podcast.
Listen to the episode and subscribe:
Game Date/Time: Saturday, Sept. 9 at 12 noon ET
Location: Columbus, Ohio
TV: Big Ten Network
Streaming: DIRECTV STREAM, Sling TV, Fubo
Radio: 97.1 FM/1460 AM
This afternoon, inside the cathedral of college football, head coach Ryan Day’s fifth-ranked Ohio State Buckeyes will host the Penguins of Youngstown State University coached by former Ohio State defensive quality control coach Doug Phillips.
Still hoping to get their bearings in this new season, the Buckeyes are heavily favored over the FCS squad. So while the level of competition likely won’t be incredibly high in The Horseshoe this afternoon, hopefully, the game will give players like C.J. Hicks, Kenyatta Jackson, and Carnell Tate ample opportunities to get invaluable game reps under their belts.
Starters Out by Halftime
Marvin Harrison Jr.: Nine first-half targets, 2 touchdowns
Devin Brown: 15 pass attempts, 2 touchdown passes
Contact Matt Tamanini
Twitter: @BWWMatt
Continue reading...
Matt Tamanini via our friends at Land-Grant Holy Land
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here
Adam Cairns/Columbus Dispatch / USA TODAY NETWORK
The only Ohio State game day podcast you need.
Before every Ohio State football game, Matt Tamanini will get you ready with all of the information that you need for that day’s game on the “LGHL Tailgate” podcast.
Listen to the episode and subscribe:
Subscribe: RSS | Apple | Spotify | Google Podcasts | iHeart Radio
No. 5 Ohio State Buckeyes (-41.5) vs. Youngstown State Penguins | over/under 56.5
Game Date/Time: Saturday, Sept. 9 at 12 noon ET
Location: Columbus, Ohio
TV: Big Ten Network
Streaming: DIRECTV STREAM, Sling TV, Fubo
Radio: 97.1 FM/1460 AM
This afternoon, inside the cathedral of college football, head coach Ryan Day’s fifth-ranked Ohio State Buckeyes will host the Penguins of Youngstown State University coached by former Ohio State defensive quality control coach Doug Phillips.
Still hoping to get their bearings in this new season, the Buckeyes are heavily favored over the FCS squad. So while the level of competition likely won’t be incredibly high in The Horseshoe this afternoon, hopefully, the game will give players like C.J. Hicks, Kenyatta Jackson, and Carnell Tate ample opportunities to get invaluable game reps under their belts.
Matt’s Game Prediction: Ohio State 53, Youngstown State 0
Starters Out by Halftime
Marvin Harrison Jr.: Nine first-half targets, 2 touchdowns
Devin Brown: 15 pass attempts, 2 touchdown passes
Contact Matt Tamanini
Twitter: @BWWMatt
Music by: epidemicsound.com
Odds/lines subject to change. T&Cs apply. See draftkings.com/sportsbook for details.
Continue reading...
LGHL Ohio State fans are especially concerned about the offensive line play
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Ohio State fans are especially concerned about the offensive line play
Matt Tamanini via our friends at Land-Grant Holy Land
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here
Adam Cairns/Columbus Dispatch / USA TODAY NETWORK
However, the majority think there is plenty of time to make improvements.
Throughout the Ohio State football season, we will be asking and answering questions about the team, college football, and anything else on our collective minds of varying degrees of importance. If you have a question that you would like to ask, you can tweet us @LandGrant33 or if you need more than 280 characters, send an email HERE.
With one week in the books, for this week’s LGHL fan survey, we wanted to dive into how Buckeye fans felt about the wonky Week 1 win over Indiana and what they thought OSU needed to do in order to be at their best when they face Notre Dame on Sept. 23.
Check out DraftKings Sportsbook, the official sportsbook partner of SB Nation.
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After nine months of being without Buckeye football, it’s natural to be a little overanxious for — and a bit over-reactionary to — the season opener; I know that I am certainly not immune to that. But if you think back to some of the best seasons in recent Ohio State history, they did not start with a team playing at its peak potential.
Instead, they were teams looking to fill holes, find answers, and identify leaders early in the season. While we don’t yet know if the 2023 edition of the Ohio State football team will follow in those teams’ footsteps or not, there is plenty of time for them to get things figured out.
So, while I was underwhelmed by their play last Saturday, and I do think that there are certainly areas worthy of concern, I think it is more than fair to hold off on hitting the panic button until the new offensive line has an opportunity to gel, Kyle McCord settles into the flow of being the starting quarterback, and the entire team gets a sense of who they are as a unit.
/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/24908329/OhioState_2_090723.png)
That being said, this doesn’t mean that we shouldn’t be able to point out areas that need improvement if the Buckeyes are going to reach their goals this season, starting with when they go on the road to South Bend two weeks from today. Chief among them is the need for the o-line to make dramatic steps forward when it comes to run blocking.
Far too often last week, there were Hoosier defenders left unblocked who came through the offensive line to completely blow up running plays. The pass blocking was markedly better but still showed signs of uncertainty. For what has been the best offense in college football for a number of years, this is a bit of a concern. However, if you know football, you know that offensive lines take the longest to gel when new players are being added into the rotation.
So, there is still time for this reconfigured unit to figure things out, the only problem is that with Youngstown State and Wester Kentucky, it will be hard to know just how much improvement they make between now and their trip to South Bend.
Continue reading...
Matt Tamanini via our friends at Land-Grant Holy Land
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here
Adam Cairns/Columbus Dispatch / USA TODAY NETWORK
However, the majority think there is plenty of time to make improvements.
Throughout the Ohio State football season, we will be asking and answering questions about the team, college football, and anything else on our collective minds of varying degrees of importance. If you have a question that you would like to ask, you can tweet us @LandGrant33 or if you need more than 280 characters, send an email HERE.
With one week in the books, for this week’s LGHL fan survey, we wanted to dive into how Buckeye fans felt about the wonky Week 1 win over Indiana and what they thought OSU needed to do in order to be at their best when they face Notre Dame on Sept. 23.
Check out DraftKings Sportsbook, the official sportsbook partner of SB Nation.
Question 1: What was your biggest takeaway from Saturday’s Indiana game?
After nine months of being without Buckeye football, it’s natural to be a little overanxious for — and a bit over-reactionary to — the season opener; I know that I am certainly not immune to that. But if you think back to some of the best seasons in recent Ohio State history, they did not start with a team playing at its peak potential.
Instead, they were teams looking to fill holes, find answers, and identify leaders early in the season. While we don’t yet know if the 2023 edition of the Ohio State football team will follow in those teams’ footsteps or not, there is plenty of time for them to get things figured out.
So, while I was underwhelmed by their play last Saturday, and I do think that there are certainly areas worthy of concern, I think it is more than fair to hold off on hitting the panic button until the new offensive line has an opportunity to gel, Kyle McCord settles into the flow of being the starting quarterback, and the entire team gets a sense of who they are as a unit.
Question 2: What is the one thing that most needs to be improved before Notre Dame?
That being said, this doesn’t mean that we shouldn’t be able to point out areas that need improvement if the Buckeyes are going to reach their goals this season, starting with when they go on the road to South Bend two weeks from today. Chief among them is the need for the o-line to make dramatic steps forward when it comes to run blocking.
Far too often last week, there were Hoosier defenders left unblocked who came through the offensive line to completely blow up running plays. The pass blocking was markedly better but still showed signs of uncertainty. For what has been the best offense in college football for a number of years, this is a bit of a concern. However, if you know football, you know that offensive lines take the longest to gel when new players are being added into the rotation.
So, there is still time for this reconfigured unit to figure things out, the only problem is that with Youngstown State and Wester Kentucky, it will be hard to know just how much improvement they make between now and their trip to South Bend.
Continue reading...
LGHL OHIO STATE GAMEDAY: It’s a bad day to be a Youngstown State Penguin
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OHIO STATE GAMEDAY: It’s a bad day to be a Youngstown State Penguin
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 Michael Hickey/Getty Images
The Buckeyes host their first home game of the year.
Wake up, everyone. It’s Ohio State game day!
The Buckeyes defeated a Big Ten opponent by 20 points in Week 1, but fans are looking for a much better offensive performance on Saturday when Youngstown State comes to town. Ohio State is still trying to figure out its quarterback position, hoping to get significant snaps for both Kyle McCord and Devin Brown this time around. Meanwhile, the Penguins bring some familiar faces to Columbus, with former OSU safety Marcus Hooker on the roster and former quality control coach Doug Phillips at the helm.
Over the past week, our talented group of writers and podcasters have put together preview pieces, analytical breakdowns, and everything in-between.
If you missed out on any of the coverage, we have you... well, covered. Below, each type of story is categorized. If you’re looking for podcasts and previews we’ve done, you can find them; if you’re looking for the betting lines and non-football topics, they are there, too.
Enjoy the day everyone. As always, Go Bucks!
Continue reading...
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 Michael Hickey/Getty Images
The Buckeyes host their first home game of the year.
Wake up, everyone. It’s Ohio State game day!
The Buckeyes defeated a Big Ten opponent by 20 points in Week 1, but fans are looking for a much better offensive performance on Saturday when Youngstown State comes to town. Ohio State is still trying to figure out its quarterback position, hoping to get significant snaps for both Kyle McCord and Devin Brown this time around. Meanwhile, the Penguins bring some familiar faces to Columbus, with former OSU safety Marcus Hooker on the roster and former quality control coach Doug Phillips at the helm.
Over the past week, our talented group of writers and podcasters have put together preview pieces, analytical breakdowns, and everything in-between.
If you missed out on any of the coverage, we have you... well, covered. Below, each type of story is categorized. If you’re looking for podcasts and previews we’ve done, you can find them; if you’re looking for the betting lines and non-football topics, they are there, too.
Enjoy the day everyone. As always, Go Bucks!
Football Podcasts
- Uncut: Day thinks win was ‘mixed bag,’ wishes he had gotten Brown in more
- Silver Bullets: Indiana rewind and Youngstown State preview
- Uncut: Ryan Day says offensive play ‘won’t be good enough’ to reach goals
- Hangout in the Holy Land: In the words of Belichick, ‘We’re on to Columbus’
- In Conversation: Doug Lesmerises says Ohio State’s quarterback battle is over
Previews
- Ohio State vs. Youngstown State: 2023 game preview and prediction
- Three Things To Watch from Youngstown State
- Cover Six: The best defensive performance since 2019
- Ohio State sets its sights on Youngstown State in Week 2
Sports Betting
- A look at Week 2’s notable betting lines
- Week 2 national games
- Week 2 Big Ten games
- Conference title odds after one week of action
Basketball
- Should charges be banned in basketball?
- Ranking Ohio State men’s basketball’s non-conference games from easiest to hardest
Recruiting
- Buckeyes set to host more in-state targets on Saturday
- Top-5 tight end to decide between Ohio State, Georgia, Alabama this month
- Elite 2026 quarterback lists Ohio State among top schools
- Five-star offensive tackle sets commitment date for later this month
Ask LGHL
Other Podcasts
- Stick to Sports: Watching the Big Ten on CBS was rough, and it’s going to get worse
- Bucketheads: Chris Holtmann talks Big Ten expansion, Taylor Swift, and more
Other Columns
- A homer’s annual defense of Ryan Day, winner of nearly 90% of his games
- Ryan Day’s trust issues with players, staff, and himself could sink Ohio State’s season
- Why Archie Griffin is Ohio State’s ultimate game changer on and off the field
- Big Thoughts: New year, new coach, same Nebraska
- The Ohio State offense can still be great, even with quarterback undecided
- Biggest reason for optimism after Ohio State’s Week 1 performance
- Top 5 things to know about game day at Ohio State
- Making the most of the Ohio State gameday experience
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LGHL Good Grief! Get your limited edition Ohio State Snoopy and Charlie Brown bobbleheds!
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Good Grief! Get your limited edition Ohio State Snoopy and Charlie Brown bobbleheds!
Matt Tamanini via our friends at Land-Grant Holy Land
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here
Act now before Lucy pulls them away from you at the last second!
Good grief! For any Ohio State memorabilia collector who is really a kid at heart, there is no better set of bobbleheads than these new Snoopy and Charlie Brown Peanuts Bighead figures. While the lyrics to the song are not “Hang on, Snoopy,” I’ve always felt like the world’s coolest beagle was the unofficial inspiration for Ohio’s official rock song.
This officially licensed, limited edition release from our friends at FOCO features both characters decked out in their best scarlet and gray apparel with Snoopy striking a Heisman pose and Charlie Brown undoubtedly attempting to kick a ball that has just been pulled right out from under him.
Each hand-painted bobblehead stands close to 10 inches tall and would make a perfect addition to your collection. But, make sure to act now, because there are only 150 sets available for purchase, and at $65, they won’t last long.
/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/24908389/Ohio_State_Buckeyes_Peanuts_Charlie_Brown_and_Snoopy_Bobbleheads.jpg)
FOCO has been killing it with Ohio State bobbleheads over the past year. Last month, they introduced a Brutus training camp bobblehead and for Memorial Day, the company released an “I Want You” Uncle Sam-inspired Brutus bobblehead. Those followed the NFL Draft, they released figures to celebrate the selections of C.J. Stroud, Paris Johnson Jr., and Jaxon Smith-Njigba. Then, last fall, they released an absolute must-have Brutus “Then and Now” bobblehead featuring the current and original versions of everybody’s favorite poisonous nut!
And in October 2022, to celebrate Halloween, the company released a “Phantom of the Opera-themed bobblehead featuring our boy Brutus in a picture-perfect Spooky Season costume. The company also released a Thanksgiving Day Parade-inspired Brutus bobblehead and a Brutus in Christmas pajamas in front of the fireplace bobblehead. Also, last summer, FOCO released very snazzy Brutus Buckeye Bighead.
In addition, FOCO just released a pair of bobbleheads to celebrate the 100th anniversary of Ohio Stadium. One features Brutus, while the other shows Woody Hayes strutting above The Horseshoe. Also, OSU great Chris Olave got his own Gate Series bobblehead joining fellow former Buckeye greats Chase Young, Justin Fields, Cameron Heyward, Carlos Hyde, Joey Bosa, and Michael Thomas who had their boobleheads released last August.
As someone with a borderline unhealthy Ohio State bobblehead/collectible addiction, I can think of no better way to celebrate the final unofficial season before college football than with one (or all) of these magnificent merchandising masterpieces.
And, if actually care about teams other than Ohio State, FOCO has some other college team Peanut options that you might be interested in as well.
/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/24908397/Peanuts_Charlie_Brown_and_Snoopy_College_Bobblehead_Collection.jpg)
Continue reading...
Matt Tamanini via our friends at Land-Grant Holy Land
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here
Act now before Lucy pulls them away from you at the last second!
Good grief! For any Ohio State memorabilia collector who is really a kid at heart, there is no better set of bobbleheads than these new Snoopy and Charlie Brown Peanuts Bighead figures. While the lyrics to the song are not “Hang on, Snoopy,” I’ve always felt like the world’s coolest beagle was the unofficial inspiration for Ohio’s official rock song.
This officially licensed, limited edition release from our friends at FOCO features both characters decked out in their best scarlet and gray apparel with Snoopy striking a Heisman pose and Charlie Brown undoubtedly attempting to kick a ball that has just been pulled right out from under him.
Each hand-painted bobblehead stands close to 10 inches tall and would make a perfect addition to your collection. But, make sure to act now, because there are only 150 sets available for purchase, and at $65, they won’t last long.
Get Your Ohio State Peanuts Bobbleheads Here!
FOCO has been killing it with Ohio State bobbleheads over the past year. Last month, they introduced a Brutus training camp bobblehead and for Memorial Day, the company released an “I Want You” Uncle Sam-inspired Brutus bobblehead. Those followed the NFL Draft, they released figures to celebrate the selections of C.J. Stroud, Paris Johnson Jr., and Jaxon Smith-Njigba. Then, last fall, they released an absolute must-have Brutus “Then and Now” bobblehead featuring the current and original versions of everybody’s favorite poisonous nut!
And in October 2022, to celebrate Halloween, the company released a “Phantom of the Opera-themed bobblehead featuring our boy Brutus in a picture-perfect Spooky Season costume. The company also released a Thanksgiving Day Parade-inspired Brutus bobblehead and a Brutus in Christmas pajamas in front of the fireplace bobblehead. Also, last summer, FOCO released very snazzy Brutus Buckeye Bighead.
In addition, FOCO just released a pair of bobbleheads to celebrate the 100th anniversary of Ohio Stadium. One features Brutus, while the other shows Woody Hayes strutting above The Horseshoe. Also, OSU great Chris Olave got his own Gate Series bobblehead joining fellow former Buckeye greats Chase Young, Justin Fields, Cameron Heyward, Carlos Hyde, Joey Bosa, and Michael Thomas who had their boobleheads released last August.
As someone with a borderline unhealthy Ohio State bobblehead/collectible addiction, I can think of no better way to celebrate the final unofficial season before college football than with one (or all) of these magnificent merchandising masterpieces.
And, if actually care about teams other than Ohio State, FOCO has some other college team Peanut options that you might be interested in as well.
Continue reading...
LGHL Conference title odds after one week of action
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Conference title odds after one week of action
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 Shamus/Getty Images
Who are the betting favorites to win each of the Power 5 conferences?
Very few conference games were played in Week 1 — although Ohio State did take part in one themselves — but that won’t stop us from looking ahead. It is tough to project a team’s success based solely on a single game, especially when many of the top programs in the country played far inferior opponents this past weekend. Still, if nothing else oddsmakers have been given one more data point, and here is who they think will emerge victorious from four of the five power conferences (the ACC does not have odds listed on DraftKings) at this current juncture.
All odds courtesy of DraftKings Sportsbook.
Michigan is essentially playing a 1.5-game season, with a road contest against Penn State and Ohio State at home the only potential tests for the Wolverines all season. With Jim Harbaugh getting the upper-hand on Ryan Day the past two years, they now get the benefit of the doubt as the Big Ten favorite.
In addition to all that, the Buckeyes play a much tougher schedule, with road contests at Notre Dame, Wisconsin and Michigan as well as Penn State at home. If all goes according to plan, Nov. 25 will be a play-in game for the Big Ten title game.
Is Texas finally back? We will learn more about the Longhorns in Week 2 when they travel to Tuscaloosa to take on Alabama, but that won’t mean anything in terms of the Big 12 title race. The only two ranked teams (as of right now) on the schedule are Oklahoma and Kansas State, with Red River being played at the Cotton Bowl and the Wildcats coming to Austin.
The Sooners looked dominant in their 73-0 win over Arkansas State, but have some intriguing matchups on the docket with road games at Cincinnati, Kansas and Oklahoma State. Red River could prove massive in determining a conference winner.
It’s tough to bet against Caleb Williams, even despite USC employing one of the nation’s worst defensive coordinators in Alex Grinch. That being said, the Pac-12 is one of the most hotly contested conferences, as the only listed league with three different teams — USC, Oregon and Washington (+280) — having better than +300 odds.
The Trojans have a brutal stretch to end the year, with five of their final six games coming against Notre Dame, Utah, Washington, Oregon and UCLA. The Ducks, meanwhile, get the benefit of playing USC at home, and have an easier non-conference schedule.
This one is kind of a no-brainer. Georgia is the back-to-back defending national champions, and on top of all the tremendous talent they have going for them, they play one of the easiest schedules in the entire country. They get Ole Miss at home and have to travel to Tennessee towards the end of the year as their only two opponents with a pulse, but wins in those games leads to an easy 12-0 campaign.
Alabama may not be at the height of its powers, but the Tide are still a strong group. They have a handful of marquee matchups ahead of them, including home games against Texas, Tennessee and LSU and a road trip to Texas A&M.
Odds/lines subject to change. T&Cs apply. See draftkings.com/sportsbook for details.
Continue reading...
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 Shamus/Getty Images
Who are the betting favorites to win each of the Power 5 conferences?
Very few conference games were played in Week 1 — although Ohio State did take part in one themselves — but that won’t stop us from looking ahead. It is tough to project a team’s success based solely on a single game, especially when many of the top programs in the country played far inferior opponents this past weekend. Still, if nothing else oddsmakers have been given one more data point, and here is who they think will emerge victorious from four of the five power conferences (the ACC does not have odds listed on DraftKings) at this current juncture.
All odds courtesy of DraftKings Sportsbook.
Big Ten: Michigan (+170)
Next-Best: Ohio State (+200)
Michigan is essentially playing a 1.5-game season, with a road contest against Penn State and Ohio State at home the only potential tests for the Wolverines all season. With Jim Harbaugh getting the upper-hand on Ryan Day the past two years, they now get the benefit of the doubt as the Big Ten favorite.
In addition to all that, the Buckeyes play a much tougher schedule, with road contests at Notre Dame, Wisconsin and Michigan as well as Penn State at home. If all goes according to plan, Nov. 25 will be a play-in game for the Big Ten title game.
Big 12: Texas (+105)
Next-Best: Oklahoma (+275)
Is Texas finally back? We will learn more about the Longhorns in Week 2 when they travel to Tuscaloosa to take on Alabama, but that won’t mean anything in terms of the Big 12 title race. The only two ranked teams (as of right now) on the schedule are Oklahoma and Kansas State, with Red River being played at the Cotton Bowl and the Wildcats coming to Austin.
The Sooners looked dominant in their 73-0 win over Arkansas State, but have some intriguing matchups on the docket with road games at Cincinnati, Kansas and Oklahoma State. Red River could prove massive in determining a conference winner.
Pac-12: USC (+210)
Next-Best: Oregon (+280)
It’s tough to bet against Caleb Williams, even despite USC employing one of the nation’s worst defensive coordinators in Alex Grinch. That being said, the Pac-12 is one of the most hotly contested conferences, as the only listed league with three different teams — USC, Oregon and Washington (+280) — having better than +300 odds.
The Trojans have a brutal stretch to end the year, with five of their final six games coming against Notre Dame, Utah, Washington, Oregon and UCLA. The Ducks, meanwhile, get the benefit of playing USC at home, and have an easier non-conference schedule.
SEC: Georgia (-105)
Next-Best: Alabama (+230)
This one is kind of a no-brainer. Georgia is the back-to-back defending national champions, and on top of all the tremendous talent they have going for them, they play one of the easiest schedules in the entire country. They get Ole Miss at home and have to travel to Tennessee towards the end of the year as their only two opponents with a pulse, but wins in those games leads to an easy 12-0 campaign.
Alabama may not be at the height of its powers, but the Tide are still a strong group. They have a handful of marquee matchups ahead of them, including home games against Texas, Tennessee and LSU and a road trip to Texas A&M.
Other Conferences with Title Odds:
- American: Tulane (+220) and SMU (+220)
- Mountain West: Fresno State (+230)
- Sun Belt: Troy (+280)
- Conference USA: Western Kentucky (+125)
Odds/lines subject to change. T&Cs apply. See draftkings.com/sportsbook for details.
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LGHL Our streaming expert has the best ways to watch Ohio State vs. Youngstown State for free without cable
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Our streaming expert has the best ways to watch Ohio State vs. Youngstown State for free without cable
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 David J. Griffin/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images
You’ve got a number of free trials you can choose from of various lengths and breadths.
Last week’s game on CBS was easy, everyone knows how to watch CBS, but the Big Ten Network? It’s been months since some of us even remembered that the channel exists. So, if you need to figure out how to get BTN in order to watch Ohio State’s game against Youngstown State, you’ve come to the right place.
As cord-cutting has become far more the norm than the exception across the United States, it would not be a surprise if you gave up cable or a live-streaming service following last year’s season only to realize that it’s the day of the game and you have no way to watch it.
For millions of cable customers across the country, last week, they lost access to ESPN, ESPN2, ABC, and other channels because of a carriage and retransmission dispute between Spectrum Cable and Disney. Since the Buckeyes play on BTN — which is not owned by Disney — this won’t impact your ability to watch OSU, but it will get in the way of watching Texas and Alabama on ESPN tonight.
Fortunately for you, I am something of a streaming expert... no really, I write about streaming services for a living. So, I am going to walk you through the best — and cheapest — ways for you to stream today’s game. Also, if you want to put a little money on the game over at DraftKings Sportsbook, not only would it make what could be a blowout even more exciting, but you could make enough cash to pay for a full month of cable or streaming!
Game Date/Time: Saturday, Sept. 9 at 12 noon ET
TV: Big Ten Network
Broadcasters: Cory Provus, Jake Butt, Brooke Fletcher
Betting Line: Ohio State -41.5.5 | 56.5 o/u
Odds/lines subject to change. T&Cs apply. See draftkings.com/sportsbook for details.
If you just realized that you didn’t have a way to watch this afternoon’s game on the Big Ten Network, then DIRECTV STREAM is your best option. The live TV streaming service has the only guaranteed multi-day free trial in the industry and provides the most top cable channels of all of its competitors. The basic, Entertainment package comes with all of the major network channels — all of which have college football — ABC, CBS, Fox, and NBC. It also has ESPN, ESPN2, and FS1. Then, if you want to upgrade, other packages include the ACC Network, Big Ten Network, ESPNU, SEC Network, CBS Sports Network, Longhorn Network, and more.
What’s great about DIRECTV STREAM’s free trial is that you are able to sign up for whatever package you want for free. You don’t have to worry about being charged for upgraded plans. So, you can simply sign up for the top-tier Premier package — which normally costs $154.99 per month — enjoy all 140 channels for five days and then cancel.
The only issue with DIRECTV STREAM is that the provider is currently locked in a carriage dispute with station owner Nexstar. So, there are a number of channels across the country that are blacked out on DIRECTV’s satellite and streaming services. So, if you are going to go with DIRECTV STREAM, make sure that you check here to see if the game(s) you want to watch are blacked out in your area.
Big Ten Network won’t be impacted by the blackout, but a lot of the other games today — and NFL opening weekend — will be.
If you are unable to watch a game this weekend because of the DIRECTV/Nexstar dispute, Fubo is another good alternative. Currently, the service is only guaranteeing a one-day trial — as it is trying to discourage people from watching an entire weekend of football for free — but depending on the day and circumstances, it could be longer.
Either way, if you sign up here, you will at least be able to watch all of today’s games for free.
Below is your Ohio State vs. Youngstown State 2023 game thread. Be respectful, be kind and — as always — keep it classy, BuckeyeNation. If you like GIFs, lay ‘em on us. In all, be good fans, cheer for your teams, be cool to each other (even if somebody else isn’t) and everyone wins. Let’s finish the season strong!
Continue reading...
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 David J. Griffin/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images
You’ve got a number of free trials you can choose from of various lengths and breadths.
Last week’s game on CBS was easy, everyone knows how to watch CBS, but the Big Ten Network? It’s been months since some of us even remembered that the channel exists. So, if you need to figure out how to get BTN in order to watch Ohio State’s game against Youngstown State, you’ve come to the right place.
As cord-cutting has become far more the norm than the exception across the United States, it would not be a surprise if you gave up cable or a live-streaming service following last year’s season only to realize that it’s the day of the game and you have no way to watch it.
For millions of cable customers across the country, last week, they lost access to ESPN, ESPN2, ABC, and other channels because of a carriage and retransmission dispute between Spectrum Cable and Disney. Since the Buckeyes play on BTN — which is not owned by Disney — this won’t impact your ability to watch OSU, but it will get in the way of watching Texas and Alabama on ESPN tonight.
Fortunately for you, I am something of a streaming expert... no really, I write about streaming services for a living. So, I am going to walk you through the best — and cheapest — ways for you to stream today’s game. Also, if you want to put a little money on the game over at DraftKings Sportsbook, not only would it make what could be a blowout even more exciting, but you could make enough cash to pay for a full month of cable or streaming!
How can I watch the Ohio State vs. Youngstown State college football game?
Game Date/Time: Saturday, Sept. 9 at 12 noon ET
TV: Big Ten Network
Broadcasters: Cory Provus, Jake Butt, Brooke Fletcher
Betting Line: Ohio State -41.5.5 | 56.5 o/u
Odds/lines subject to change. T&Cs apply. See draftkings.com/sportsbook for details.
Best Streaming Option for All Week 2 College Football Games: DIRECTV STREAM | 5-Day Free Trial
If you just realized that you didn’t have a way to watch this afternoon’s game on the Big Ten Network, then DIRECTV STREAM is your best option. The live TV streaming service has the only guaranteed multi-day free trial in the industry and provides the most top cable channels of all of its competitors. The basic, Entertainment package comes with all of the major network channels — all of which have college football — ABC, CBS, Fox, and NBC. It also has ESPN, ESPN2, and FS1. Then, if you want to upgrade, other packages include the ACC Network, Big Ten Network, ESPNU, SEC Network, CBS Sports Network, Longhorn Network, and more.
What’s great about DIRECTV STREAM’s free trial is that you are able to sign up for whatever package you want for free. You don’t have to worry about being charged for upgraded plans. So, you can simply sign up for the top-tier Premier package — which normally costs $154.99 per month — enjoy all 140 channels for five days and then cancel.
The only issue with DIRECTV STREAM is that the provider is currently locked in a carriage dispute with station owner Nexstar. So, there are a number of channels across the country that are blacked out on DIRECTV’s satellite and streaming services. So, if you are going to go with DIRECTV STREAM, make sure that you check here to see if the game(s) you want to watch are blacked out in your area.
Big Ten Network won’t be impacted by the blackout, but a lot of the other games today — and NFL opening weekend — will be.
Best Streaming Option for Week 2 College Football Games If You Have Local Blackouts: Fubo | At Least a 1-Day Free Trial
If you are unable to watch a game this weekend because of the DIRECTV/Nexstar dispute, Fubo is another good alternative. Currently, the service is only guaranteeing a one-day trial — as it is trying to discourage people from watching an entire weekend of football for free — but depending on the day and circumstances, it could be longer.
Either way, if you sign up here, you will at least be able to watch all of today’s games for free.
Join the conversation
Below is your Ohio State vs. Youngstown State 2023 game thread. Be respectful, be kind and — as always — keep it classy, BuckeyeNation. If you like GIFs, lay ‘em on us. In all, be good fans, cheer for your teams, be cool to each other (even if somebody else isn’t) and everyone wins. Let’s finish the season strong!
Odds/lines subject to change. T&Cs apply. See draftkings.com/sportsbook for details.
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LGHL LGHL Asks: What does Ohio State need to fix most before Notre Dame?
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LGHL Asks: What does Ohio State need to fix most before Notre Dame?
Matt Tamanini via our friends at Land-Grant Holy Land
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here
Kyle Robertson/Columbus Dispatch / USA TODAY NETWORK
You ask, we answer. Sometimes we ask, others answer. And then other times, we ask, we answer.
Throughout the Ohio State football season, we will be asking and answering questions about the team, college football, and anything else on our collective minds of varying degrees of importance. If you have a question that you would like to ask, you can tweet us @LandGrant33 or if you need more than 280 characters, send an email HERE.
Ohio State has one win down on the 2023 season, with 14 left to go. Before we completely begin devoting our attention to the mighty Penguins of Youngstown State, we wanted to ask the Buckeye faithful their thoughts about the season-opener against Indiana and what needs to be the focus moving forward before OSU heads to South Bend at the end of the month.
So, let us know your thoughts in the survey at the bottom of the page, and if you want to expound on your vote, feel free to head to the comments below.
The game in Bloomington last Saturday was by no means a masterpiece, but it also could have been a lot worse (looking at you, Clemson). As is often the case with season openers, there were things that need to be improved, but there were also some surprising bright spots.
So, depending on if you are a glass-half-empty or half-full kind of person, you could probably take this question in a couple of different directions.
The Notre Dame Fighting Irish are 2-0 on the season with victories over Navy and Tennessee State. The Domers have looked strong, especially with transfer quarterback Sam Hartman now running the show on offense. And while they should get a bit more of a test on the road against NC State this weekend, there’s no doubt that they will present a step up in competition for the Buckeyes come Saturday, Sept. 23.
So, having seen only one game on the season, we want to know what you think most has to get better before the Bucks head up to South Bend.
Throughout the year we ask questions of the most plugged-in Ohio State fans and fans across the country. Sign up here to participate in the weekly emailed surveys.
Continue reading...
Matt Tamanini via our friends at Land-Grant Holy Land
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here
Kyle Robertson/Columbus Dispatch / USA TODAY NETWORK
You ask, we answer. Sometimes we ask, others answer. And then other times, we ask, we answer.
Throughout the Ohio State football season, we will be asking and answering questions about the team, college football, and anything else on our collective minds of varying degrees of importance. If you have a question that you would like to ask, you can tweet us @LandGrant33 or if you need more than 280 characters, send an email HERE.
Ohio State has one win down on the 2023 season, with 14 left to go. Before we completely begin devoting our attention to the mighty Penguins of Youngstown State, we wanted to ask the Buckeye faithful their thoughts about the season-opener against Indiana and what needs to be the focus moving forward before OSU heads to South Bend at the end of the month.
So, let us know your thoughts in the survey at the bottom of the page, and if you want to expound on your vote, feel free to head to the comments below.
Question 1: What was your biggest takeaway from Saturday’s Indiana game?
The game in Bloomington last Saturday was by no means a masterpiece, but it also could have been a lot worse (looking at you, Clemson). As is often the case with season openers, there were things that need to be improved, but there were also some surprising bright spots.
So, depending on if you are a glass-half-empty or half-full kind of person, you could probably take this question in a couple of different directions.
Question 2: What is the one thing that most needs to be improved before Notre Dame?
The Notre Dame Fighting Irish are 2-0 on the season with victories over Navy and Tennessee State. The Domers have looked strong, especially with transfer quarterback Sam Hartman now running the show on offense. And while they should get a bit more of a test on the road against NC State this weekend, there’s no doubt that they will present a step up in competition for the Buckeyes come Saturday, Sept. 23.
So, having seen only one game on the season, we want to know what you think most has to get better before the Bucks head up to South Bend.
Share your thoughts here:
Throughout the year we ask questions of the most plugged-in Ohio State fans and fans across the country. Sign up here to participate in the weekly emailed surveys.
Continue reading...
LGHL Three Things To Watch from Youngstown State
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Three Things To Watch from Youngstown State
Chip.Minnich via our friends at Land-Grant Holy Land
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here
Jordan Prather-USA TODAY Sports
Ohio State opens up at home in 2023 against the Penguins
Coming off an underwhelming 23-3 win at Indiana in the season opener, Ohio State will have their 2023 home opener against FCS opponent Youngstown State of the Missouri Valley Football Conference. Ohio State has previously played Youngstown State twice, winning 38-6 in 2007, and 43-0 in 2008.
This game will serve as somewhat of a homecoming for Youngstown State head coach Doug Phillips and current Penguins safety Marcus Hooker. Phillips previously served on the staff in 2006 as a quality control coach under former Ohio State head coach Jim Tressel, and Hooker played safety for Ohio State from 2018 through 2021.
Youngstown State had a convincing 52-10 win over Valparaiso in their season opener. The Penguins rushed for 302 yards on the ground, while also collecting five sacks against Valparaiso defensively. While Youngstown State is a FCS opponent, and Ohio State should win this game easily, this contest will serve as an opportunity to fix what issues they discovered in their season opener at Indiana, while also providing chances to build upon areas of strength.
Below are the Three Things To Watch From Youngstown State, as this game will be kicking off on The Big Ten Network at 12pm ET...
Up above I wrote that the victory over Indiana was underwhelming, and a primary culprit for that unflattering definition was the play of the Ohio State offensive line. With three new starters along the offensive line, there were bound to be — and probably will continue to be — growing pains with developing cohesiveness and chemistry within that unit.
For all of the hand-wringing and angst about the lack of a downfield passing game by Ohio State in game one, the reality is that a downfield passing game requires strong pass protection by the offensive line, and the offensive line can only develop that with repetition. Youngstown State was able to collect five sacks in their win against Valparaiso, while Ohio State was able to keep both Kyle McCord and Devin Brown from being sacked even once.
Here is an opportunity to see what adjustments and improvements the coaching staff have made from the Indiana game with regards to pass blocking. More importantly, the offensive line struggled repeatedly in short yardage situations. Keep an eye on how effective Ohio State is at third down conversions, as the Buckeyes were only 2-for-12 last week against the Hoosiers.
2. The Ohio State run defense vs. Youngstown State’s offense
Penguins RB Tyshon King ran for 111 yards and 2 touchdowns in the win over Valparaiso. Earlier this week, Michael Citro and I had the pleasure of having Joel Whetzel as a guest on The Silver Bullets Podcast to preview this contest versus Youngstown State. Josh stated that Youngstown State traditionally runs a ball-control offense, as evidenced by King’s and teammates Da’Shaun Whatley’s (5 carries for 59 yards, 1 touchdown) and Cephus Harris III’s (7 carries for 58 yards) performances against the Valparaiso Beacons.
Ohio State was able to clamp down on Indiana’s running game, limiting the Hoosiers to only 71 yards on 33 carries, a 2.2 yards per carry average. If Ohio State is as successful against Youngstown State as they were at Indiana, that should bode well for the Buckeyes as they get closer and closer to B1G conference play.
3. “Put Me In, Coach”
I wrote this article over the summer, and now is the time for Ohio State head coach Ryan Day to apply it in this game. Ohio State can play its true freshmen in up to four games, and still redshirt those players for the 2023 season.
Ohio State played the following seven players from their 2023 recruiting class at Indiana:
Some played more prominently than others, but the point is that these players have demonstrated to the coaching staff that they are worthy of playing time.
If Ohio State plays as expected, the coaching staff should play as many of the true freshmen as they possibly can. Even more so, there are a considerable number of redshirt freshmen who should get some game time in the fourth quarter. It is imperative that Ohio State has a strong, healthy roster as the season progresses, and a good way to do that is through ample substitution when the game has been clearly won by the Buckeyes.
I wrote this last week, and I will reiterate it for this game - expect some sloppiness. Perhaps not as much as in Week 1, but there will be some mistakes that will frustrate you. Game one at Indiana, this game versus Youngstown State, and next week versus Western Kentucky, are the games the coaching staff will use as teaching tools for the first big test of the season, when Ohio State travels to South Bend on September 23rd.
I expect to see better performances across the board, and believe the coaching staff will have Devin Brown in at quarterback sooner and more frequently than he was at Indiana in game one. The Ohio State defense will look to build upon their strong showing from game one by hampering Youngstown State’s running game.
Ideally, the offensive line will play better, which will mean more downfield passing by Kyle McCord, resulting in a bigger game by Marvin Harrison, Jr. I see the Ohio State running game also being effective, and I am openly hoping that this game will give Ohio State fans a brief glimpse at true freshman quarterback Lincoln Kienholz late in the contest.
I have it Ohio State 49, Youngstown State 3.
Continue reading...
Chip.Minnich via our friends at Land-Grant Holy Land
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here
Jordan Prather-USA TODAY Sports
Ohio State opens up at home in 2023 against the Penguins
Coming off an underwhelming 23-3 win at Indiana in the season opener, Ohio State will have their 2023 home opener against FCS opponent Youngstown State of the Missouri Valley Football Conference. Ohio State has previously played Youngstown State twice, winning 38-6 in 2007, and 43-0 in 2008.
This game will serve as somewhat of a homecoming for Youngstown State head coach Doug Phillips and current Penguins safety Marcus Hooker. Phillips previously served on the staff in 2006 as a quality control coach under former Ohio State head coach Jim Tressel, and Hooker played safety for Ohio State from 2018 through 2021.
Youngstown State had a convincing 52-10 win over Valparaiso in their season opener. The Penguins rushed for 302 yards on the ground, while also collecting five sacks against Valparaiso defensively. While Youngstown State is a FCS opponent, and Ohio State should win this game easily, this contest will serve as an opportunity to fix what issues they discovered in their season opener at Indiana, while also providing chances to build upon areas of strength.
Below are the Three Things To Watch From Youngstown State, as this game will be kicking off on The Big Ten Network at 12pm ET...
- The Ohio State offensive line vs. Youngstown State’s defense
Up above I wrote that the victory over Indiana was underwhelming, and a primary culprit for that unflattering definition was the play of the Ohio State offensive line. With three new starters along the offensive line, there were bound to be — and probably will continue to be — growing pains with developing cohesiveness and chemistry within that unit.
For all of the hand-wringing and angst about the lack of a downfield passing game by Ohio State in game one, the reality is that a downfield passing game requires strong pass protection by the offensive line, and the offensive line can only develop that with repetition. Youngstown State was able to collect five sacks in their win against Valparaiso, while Ohio State was able to keep both Kyle McCord and Devin Brown from being sacked even once.
Here is an opportunity to see what adjustments and improvements the coaching staff have made from the Indiana game with regards to pass blocking. More importantly, the offensive line struggled repeatedly in short yardage situations. Keep an eye on how effective Ohio State is at third down conversions, as the Buckeyes were only 2-for-12 last week against the Hoosiers.
2. The Ohio State run defense vs. Youngstown State’s offense
Penguins RB Tyshon King ran for 111 yards and 2 touchdowns in the win over Valparaiso. Earlier this week, Michael Citro and I had the pleasure of having Joel Whetzel as a guest on The Silver Bullets Podcast to preview this contest versus Youngstown State. Josh stated that Youngstown State traditionally runs a ball-control offense, as evidenced by King’s and teammates Da’Shaun Whatley’s (5 carries for 59 yards, 1 touchdown) and Cephus Harris III’s (7 carries for 58 yards) performances against the Valparaiso Beacons.
Ohio State was able to clamp down on Indiana’s running game, limiting the Hoosiers to only 71 yards on 33 carries, a 2.2 yards per carry average. If Ohio State is as successful against Youngstown State as they were at Indiana, that should bode well for the Buckeyes as they get closer and closer to B1G conference play.
3. “Put Me In, Coach”
I wrote this article over the summer, and now is the time for Ohio State head coach Ryan Day to apply it in this game. Ohio State can play its true freshmen in up to four games, and still redshirt those players for the 2023 season.
Ohio State played the following seven players from their 2023 recruiting class at Indiana:
- DE Arvell Reese
- WR Carnell Tate
- WR Noah Rogers
- WR Brandon Inniss
- OT Luke Montgomery
- DB Jermaine Mathews, Jr.
- S Malik Hartford.
Some played more prominently than others, but the point is that these players have demonstrated to the coaching staff that they are worthy of playing time.
If Ohio State plays as expected, the coaching staff should play as many of the true freshmen as they possibly can. Even more so, there are a considerable number of redshirt freshmen who should get some game time in the fourth quarter. It is imperative that Ohio State has a strong, healthy roster as the season progresses, and a good way to do that is through ample substitution when the game has been clearly won by the Buckeyes.
I wrote this last week, and I will reiterate it for this game - expect some sloppiness. Perhaps not as much as in Week 1, but there will be some mistakes that will frustrate you. Game one at Indiana, this game versus Youngstown State, and next week versus Western Kentucky, are the games the coaching staff will use as teaching tools for the first big test of the season, when Ohio State travels to South Bend on September 23rd.
I expect to see better performances across the board, and believe the coaching staff will have Devin Brown in at quarterback sooner and more frequently than he was at Indiana in game one. The Ohio State defense will look to build upon their strong showing from game one by hampering Youngstown State’s running game.
Ideally, the offensive line will play better, which will mean more downfield passing by Kyle McCord, resulting in a bigger game by Marvin Harrison, Jr. I see the Ohio State running game also being effective, and I am openly hoping that this game will give Ohio State fans a brief glimpse at true freshman quarterback Lincoln Kienholz late in the contest.
I have it Ohio State 49, Youngstown State 3.
Continue reading...
LGHL Top 5 things to know about game day at Ohio State
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Top 5 things to know about game day at Ohio State
Matt Tamanini via our friends at Land-Grant Holy Land
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here
Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports
Nowhere in college football are traditions as deeply felt or the marching band so beloved as at Ohio State.
The thing that separates college football from every other sport in the world is its traditions. Sure, European soccer clubs have been doing the same chants and singing the same songs for centuries and baseball managers are still forced to wear unflattering uniforms on the off chance that they are called upon to pinch-hit in extra innings, but college football traditions are so much more than songs sung by hooligans and questionable wardrobe decisions — although both are often part of the equation.
What makes college football traditions different is that they aren’t just about the celebration of a single team. At their heart, they are celebrations of ourselves, they are celebrations of our homes, of our communities, of a time in our lives when potential and optimism were the currency with which every decision was made. They are celebrations of what made us who we are today and what will help us to become the very best version of ourselves tomorrow.
While I admit that I am completely and utterly biased, I do not believe that any institution of higher education has football game-day traditions as rich and intrinsically vital to the fabric of its community than Ohio State.
/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/24902630/usa_today_17197823.jpg "Syndication: The Columbus Dispatch")
Adam Cairns/Columbus Dispatch / USA TODAY NETWORK
If you know much about college football, it will likely not surprise you that many of Ohio State’s most beloved game-day traditions involve the Ohio State Marching Band. Known as the “The Pride of the Buckeyes” for a reason, for many fans, home-game Saturdays don’t officially begin until they’ve secured a seat in St. John Arena, hours in advance of the Skull Session.
You know that a fanbase truly loves its marching band when they are willing to forgo all of the fun happening at the various tailgates and parties surrounding the stadium in order to cram into a hot and stuffy gym in order to watch the band warm up. The doors to St. John open four hours before each home game and the Skull Session begins two hours and 20 minutes before kickoff and the arena is never not filled to the brim with Buckeyes.
At 9:40, the band marches into St. John, playing its iconic ramp entrance cadences (more on that momentarily), and the sound of the cheers is deafening in that old barn. The Marching Band will then proceed to play through their pregame show until the team arrives to greet the crowd.
Generally, a selection of players and coaches will address the fans, turning the band practice into a spirited pep rally designed to get the assembled fans even more fired up for that day’s action than they already were.
Once the team exits, they will walk across Lane Avenue to Ohio Stadium to begin their pregame routine and the band will do a final musical run-through of its pregame and halftime shows. I have known many people over the years who will come down to campus simply to attend a Saturday Skull Session, despite not having tickets to the game, and then will either go home or to a bar to watch that day’s matchup; that is how special the Marching Band and the Skull Session is to Ohio State fans.
From their viral halftime shows paying tribute to Michael Jackson or video games, people around the country seem to understand why the Ohio State Marching Band is known as The Best Damn Band in the Land, but for me, the power of the band begins with The Ramp Entrance.
To this day, I can not watch — or even really think about — the band entering Ohio Stadium without tearing up. I am not a musician, nor was I ever in the band, and other than being a lifelong Buckeye, I have no real connection to the band, but the electricity generated by their entrance, the anticipation that comes with their presence, the precision of their every movement, the nearly century's worth of tradition, it is all just such a powerful experience that it is nearly impossible to put into words.
TBDBITL began performing the now-iconic Ramp Entrance in 1928. Approximately 20 minutes before kickoff, the percussion section is first to exit the tunnel as they silently (at least for the majority of fans) and methodically march onto The Horseshoe’s field. Once in position, the rest of the band files into the sounds of “The Buckeye Battle Cry.”
Once the entire regiment is assembled, the drum major races through the ranks to take their position in front of the band and performs their signature backend, touching the plum of their shako to the ground, before literally leading the band “Across the Field.”
In the 95 years that the band has been performing this tradition, there have been only minor modifications, mostly for logistical reasons, and knowing that you are witnessing one of the most indelible traditions in college football only serves to amplify the excitement and emotions of what is to come next.
Let’s put the rumors to rest. No, the University of Michigan Marching Band did not create “Script Ohio” in 1932, four years before the Ohio State Marching Band began its now legendary tradition of a constantly flowing formation spelling out “Ohio” to the music of Robert Planquette’s “Le Régiment de Sambre et Meuse.”
Yes, the Wolverines’ band did perform a program that featured its members spelling out “Ohio,” but it was set to different music and was not done in the signature — pun intended — style that we know and love today. In fact, OSU Marching Band director Eugene Weigel based the design on the marquee of the Ohio Theatre in downtown Columbus, just about six miles away from the stadium.
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Columbus Association for the Performing Arts
Ohio Theatre Marquee
The unique performance first sees the band form a triple-Block O formation on one side of the field, and then led by the drum major, slowly unwinds to form the famous script design. This section of the routine is the prelude to one of the most exciting and emotionally satisfying moments you will ever see pregame.
The highlight begins when the drum major picks up a lone sousaphone player (it’s a tuba that wraps around the musician making it easier to march with) at the bottom of the second “o” before completing the spelling of “Ohio.” Then the pair high steps to the summit of the “i,” and after the drum major marks the spot, the fourth or fifth-year sousaphone player takes their moment, doffs their cap, and bows to each side of the assembled crowd.
In “Script Ohio’s” 87-year history, there have been only a handful of honorary, non-Sousaphone playing “i”-dotters, including some of the most beloved members of the Ohio and Ohio State communities, including Bob Hope (1978), who grew up in Cleveland, former Ohio State football coaches Woody Hayes (1983) and Earl Bruce (2016), former Ohio State golfer Jack Nicklaus (2006), Sen. John and Annie Glenn (2009), and a small selection of others.
While it might seem silly to outsiders, the dotting of the “i” plays a tremendous part in the pomp and circumstance of any Ohio State game day. Bruce said upon his inclusion in this exclusive club, “I think this is the greatest honor I’ve ever received.”
For many years, “Script Ohio” was done only on a handful of occasions throughout the season, including post-game following the Homecoming contest. However, more recently, it has become an integral part of the pregame festivities, and TBDBITL will often pull out double-scripts, and with the help of the Alumni Band on one Saturday early in the season, even a quadruple “Script Ohio.”
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/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/24903073/579600276.jpg "NCAA FOOTBALL: NOV 22 Indiana at Ohio State")
Photo by Khris Hale/Icon Sportswire/Corbis/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images
While the university’s alma mater has been “Carmen Ohio” for more than a century, it was written by Ohio State athlete and Men’s Glee Club member Fred Cornell in either 1902 or 1903. There are potentially apocryphal stories that claim he wrote the words to the melody of “Spanish Hymn” on the train ride back to Columbus after the football team was beaten in Ann Arbor 86-0, though Cornell’s family has stated that they did not know if that is true.
The song became popular when the Ohio State student newspaper, The Lantern, published the words in 1906, and it has remained an important part of the school’s traditions ever since.
However, it was in 2001 when the song became a cherished and solemn part of the football game day experience. In head coach Jim Tressel’s first season in Columbus, he instituted the tradition that following every home game, win or lose, the team would congregate in front of the band on the south side of the stadium to sing “Carmen Ohio.” This tradition has become part of every game day, whether at home or on the road, whether the band has traveled with the team or not.
With their arms around each other, the team — and everyone left in the stadium — sings the song affirming their love for the institution and the friends they have made during their time in Columbus. Then, as is also tradition, everyone uses their arms to ceremonially spell out “Ohio,” the last word of the hymn.
/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/24902644/ohio_stadium_victory_bell.jpg)
The final game day tradition is one that, unfortunately, doesn’t occur at every home game, though it does at most. Located in the southeast tower of Ohio Stadium, the Victory Bell is rung after every Ohio State win. The sound can be heard throughout the central part of campus where the stadium sits, and according to the school, on especially calm days, the bell can be heard up to five miles away.
Originally a gift to the university from the classes of 1943, 1944, and 1945, the bell weighs 2,420 pounds, and the tradition of ringing it following home victories began on Oct. 2, 1954, when the Buckeyes defeated the Cal Bears. The privilege and responsibility of ringing the bell falls on members of the co-ed service fraternity Alpha Phi Omega.
There is nothing quite like walking out of The Horseshoe with the sounds of the bell celebrating another Ohio State victory.
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Matt Tamanini via our friends at Land-Grant Holy Land
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here
Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports
Nowhere in college football are traditions as deeply felt or the marching band so beloved as at Ohio State.
The thing that separates college football from every other sport in the world is its traditions. Sure, European soccer clubs have been doing the same chants and singing the same songs for centuries and baseball managers are still forced to wear unflattering uniforms on the off chance that they are called upon to pinch-hit in extra innings, but college football traditions are so much more than songs sung by hooligans and questionable wardrobe decisions — although both are often part of the equation.
What makes college football traditions different is that they aren’t just about the celebration of a single team. At their heart, they are celebrations of ourselves, they are celebrations of our homes, of our communities, of a time in our lives when potential and optimism were the currency with which every decision was made. They are celebrations of what made us who we are today and what will help us to become the very best version of ourselves tomorrow.
While I admit that I am completely and utterly biased, I do not believe that any institution of higher education has football game-day traditions as rich and intrinsically vital to the fabric of its community than Ohio State.
Skull Session
If you know much about college football, it will likely not surprise you that many of Ohio State’s most beloved game-day traditions involve the Ohio State Marching Band. Known as the “The Pride of the Buckeyes” for a reason, for many fans, home-game Saturdays don’t officially begin until they’ve secured a seat in St. John Arena, hours in advance of the Skull Session.
You know that a fanbase truly loves its marching band when they are willing to forgo all of the fun happening at the various tailgates and parties surrounding the stadium in order to cram into a hot and stuffy gym in order to watch the band warm up. The doors to St. John open four hours before each home game and the Skull Session begins two hours and 20 minutes before kickoff and the arena is never not filled to the brim with Buckeyes.
At 9:40, the band marches into St. John, playing its iconic ramp entrance cadences (more on that momentarily), and the sound of the cheers is deafening in that old barn. The Marching Band will then proceed to play through their pregame show until the team arrives to greet the crowd.
Generally, a selection of players and coaches will address the fans, turning the band practice into a spirited pep rally designed to get the assembled fans even more fired up for that day’s action than they already were.
Once the team exits, they will walk across Lane Avenue to Ohio Stadium to begin their pregame routine and the band will do a final musical run-through of its pregame and halftime shows. I have known many people over the years who will come down to campus simply to attend a Saturday Skull Session, despite not having tickets to the game, and then will either go home or to a bar to watch that day’s matchup; that is how special the Marching Band and the Skull Session is to Ohio State fans.
Ramp Entrance
From their viral halftime shows paying tribute to Michael Jackson or video games, people around the country seem to understand why the Ohio State Marching Band is known as The Best Damn Band in the Land, but for me, the power of the band begins with The Ramp Entrance.
To this day, I can not watch — or even really think about — the band entering Ohio Stadium without tearing up. I am not a musician, nor was I ever in the band, and other than being a lifelong Buckeye, I have no real connection to the band, but the electricity generated by their entrance, the anticipation that comes with their presence, the precision of their every movement, the nearly century's worth of tradition, it is all just such a powerful experience that it is nearly impossible to put into words.
TBDBITL began performing the now-iconic Ramp Entrance in 1928. Approximately 20 minutes before kickoff, the percussion section is first to exit the tunnel as they silently (at least for the majority of fans) and methodically march onto The Horseshoe’s field. Once in position, the rest of the band files into the sounds of “The Buckeye Battle Cry.”
Once the entire regiment is assembled, the drum major races through the ranks to take their position in front of the band and performs their signature backend, touching the plum of their shako to the ground, before literally leading the band “Across the Field.”
In the 95 years that the band has been performing this tradition, there have been only minor modifications, mostly for logistical reasons, and knowing that you are witnessing one of the most indelible traditions in college football only serves to amplify the excitement and emotions of what is to come next.
The Incomparable “Script Ohio”
Let’s put the rumors to rest. No, the University of Michigan Marching Band did not create “Script Ohio” in 1932, four years before the Ohio State Marching Band began its now legendary tradition of a constantly flowing formation spelling out “Ohio” to the music of Robert Planquette’s “Le Régiment de Sambre et Meuse.”
Yes, the Wolverines’ band did perform a program that featured its members spelling out “Ohio,” but it was set to different music and was not done in the signature — pun intended — style that we know and love today. In fact, OSU Marching Band director Eugene Weigel based the design on the marquee of the Ohio Theatre in downtown Columbus, just about six miles away from the stadium.
Ohio Theatre Marquee
The unique performance first sees the band form a triple-Block O formation on one side of the field, and then led by the drum major, slowly unwinds to form the famous script design. This section of the routine is the prelude to one of the most exciting and emotionally satisfying moments you will ever see pregame.
The highlight begins when the drum major picks up a lone sousaphone player (it’s a tuba that wraps around the musician making it easier to march with) at the bottom of the second “o” before completing the spelling of “Ohio.” Then the pair high steps to the summit of the “i,” and after the drum major marks the spot, the fourth or fifth-year sousaphone player takes their moment, doffs their cap, and bows to each side of the assembled crowd.
In “Script Ohio’s” 87-year history, there have been only a handful of honorary, non-Sousaphone playing “i”-dotters, including some of the most beloved members of the Ohio and Ohio State communities, including Bob Hope (1978), who grew up in Cleveland, former Ohio State football coaches Woody Hayes (1983) and Earl Bruce (2016), former Ohio State golfer Jack Nicklaus (2006), Sen. John and Annie Glenn (2009), and a small selection of others.
While it might seem silly to outsiders, the dotting of the “i” plays a tremendous part in the pomp and circumstance of any Ohio State game day. Bruce said upon his inclusion in this exclusive club, “I think this is the greatest honor I’ve ever received.”
For many years, “Script Ohio” was done only on a handful of occasions throughout the season, including post-game following the Homecoming contest. However, more recently, it has become an integral part of the pregame festivities, and TBDBITL will often pull out double-scripts, and with the help of the Alumni Band on one Saturday early in the season, even a quadruple “Script Ohio.”
“Carmen Ohio”
While the university’s alma mater has been “Carmen Ohio” for more than a century, it was written by Ohio State athlete and Men’s Glee Club member Fred Cornell in either 1902 or 1903. There are potentially apocryphal stories that claim he wrote the words to the melody of “Spanish Hymn” on the train ride back to Columbus after the football team was beaten in Ann Arbor 86-0, though Cornell’s family has stated that they did not know if that is true.
The song became popular when the Ohio State student newspaper, The Lantern, published the words in 1906, and it has remained an important part of the school’s traditions ever since.
However, it was in 2001 when the song became a cherished and solemn part of the football game day experience. In head coach Jim Tressel’s first season in Columbus, he instituted the tradition that following every home game, win or lose, the team would congregate in front of the band on the south side of the stadium to sing “Carmen Ohio.” This tradition has become part of every game day, whether at home or on the road, whether the band has traveled with the team or not.
With their arms around each other, the team — and everyone left in the stadium — sings the song affirming their love for the institution and the friends they have made during their time in Columbus. Then, as is also tradition, everyone uses their arms to ceremonially spell out “Ohio,” the last word of the hymn.
The Victory Bell
The final game day tradition is one that, unfortunately, doesn’t occur at every home game, though it does at most. Located in the southeast tower of Ohio Stadium, the Victory Bell is rung after every Ohio State win. The sound can be heard throughout the central part of campus where the stadium sits, and according to the school, on especially calm days, the bell can be heard up to five miles away.
Originally a gift to the university from the classes of 1943, 1944, and 1945, the bell weighs 2,420 pounds, and the tradition of ringing it following home victories began on Oct. 2, 1954, when the Buckeyes defeated the Cal Bears. The privilege and responsibility of ringing the bell falls on members of the co-ed service fraternity Alpha Phi Omega.
There is nothing quite like walking out of The Horseshoe with the sounds of the bell celebrating another Ohio State victory.
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LGHL MC&J: Wisconsin faces a tough trip to Washington State in Week 2 Big Ten action
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MC&J: Wisconsin faces a tough trip to Washington State in Week 2 Big Ten action
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 John Fisher/Getty Images
With no B1G conference games this week, the battle between the Badgers and Cougars looks like the best contest involving a Big Ten team.
To check out my picks for Texas-Alabama, Ole Miss-Tulane, and six other national games, you can find them here.
Illinois v. Kansas (-3) - Friday 9/8 7:30 p.m. - ESPN2
Illinois was pushed to the limit by Toledo last week. The Fighting Illini of years past would have found a way to lose that game. Quarterback Luke Altmyer totaled nearly 300 yards, including a big pass late in the fourth quarter that put Illinois in position to win the game. The defense is a bit of a concern though, as they gave up 417 yards to the Toledo offense.
Kansas didn’t have quarterback Jalon Daniels last week against Missouri State. The Jayhawks didn’t need Daniels, as Jason Bean threw for 276 yards and two scores. Daniels has been cleared to play this week, although it is unknown if he will start tonight, or how much he’ll play in the game.
Illinois lost a lot from last year’s team, including star running back Chase Brown. Even though I like the direction the Fighting Illini is headed, I think Kansas gets the win in Lawrence tonight. Whether Daniels or Bean starts, I think they’ll have a little too much for an Illinois defense that has shown they have some holes.
Kansas 31, Illinois 24
Nebraska v. No. 22 Colorado (-2.5) - 12:00 p.m. - FOX
How fun was Colorado on Saturday? Travis Hunter is the next coming of Chris Gamble, while Shedeur Sanders threw for 510 yards and four touchdowns. The Buffaloes could have easily folded in the game after some of the TCU scores, but Deion Sanders pushed his team to keep making plays.
New coach, same old Nebraska. The Cornhuskers found another way to snatch defeat from the jaws of victory. If Nebraska can’t beat Minnesota on the road, what hope do they have in Boulder in Coach Prime’s home debut? I just don’t see how Nebraska’s anemic offense can keep pace with the Buffaloes. The other shoe is going to drop at some point on Colorado, it’s just not gonna happen this week.
Colorado 38, Nebraska 23
Purdue v. Virginia Tech (-3) - 12:00 p.m. - ESPN2
I already feel like picking this game is a lost cause. Whenever I pick one side of Purdue games, the other side hits (last week against Fresno State is a prime example). The same can be said about Virginia Tech games. What’s the point in diving deeper into my prediction for this game because it’s like going to be the exact opposite, so the best side in the game is going against my pick.
I’ll take the points with Purdue. The mystique of Lane Stadium isn’t nearly what it used to be.
Purdue 28, Virginia Tech 24
UNLV v. No. 2 Michigan (-36.5) - 3:30 p.m. - CBS
Are the Wolverines holding a candlelight vigil before the first snap for their fallen leader? Will there be a fundraiser for Jim Harbaugh’s family to help after his passing? Sorry, I’m hearing news that Harbaugh didn’t actually die, his team was just acting like he did. Apparently Michigan players and fans also don’t know what “self-imposed” means.
Michigan could have named their score against East Carolina. Instead, the Wolverines packed it in for the second half and did absolutely nothing. While the exact same thing could happen this week against another cupcake, I think Michigan gives a little more effort in the second half since it’ll be their first game on CBS after the Big Ten’s new media contract.
Michigan 51, UNLV 10
Iowa (-3.5) v. Iowa State - 3:30 p.m. - FOX
If any Iowa State players are reading this, just remember that betting is very bad and you shouldn’t do it. To everyone else, please keep reading. The Cyclones are without quarterback Hunter Dekkers, who won’t be available because of a betting scandal. In place of Dekkers, redshirt freshman quarterback Rocco Becht started against Northern Iowa, going 10-of-13 for 113 yards and two scores in the 30-9 win.
Even though they scored just 24 points, Iowa’s offense actually looked pretty good last week against Utah State. There are still questions about Cade McNamara’s health as he deals with a calf injury. If McNamara played last week, I have to believe he’ll be on the field for El Assico! A rejuvenated Hawkeye offense keeps Brian Ferentz on track for his goal of 25 points per game, while the defense makes life miserable for Becht and the Cyclones.
Iowa 27, Iowa State 14
UTEP (-1.5) v. Northwestern - 3:30 p.m. - Big Ten Network
At some point Northwestern has to win a game. This feels like their best shot to do so. The Wildcats can’t look as bad as they did last week. Ben Bryant is an experienced quarterback, and he should look better this week in his second game with the Wildcats. Northwestern should also be able to get their running game going a little more than they did against the Scarlet Knights, which isn’t saying much.
As bad as Northwestern is, I’m not ready to take UTEP as a road favorite against a Power 5 school. After the Wildcats win on Saturday, he should just retire because it’s not going to get any better than this for him.
Northwestern 20, UTEP 17
No. 19 Wisconsin (-6.5) v. Washington State - 7:30 p.m. - ABC
Even though it was only against Buffalo, the Badgers were clicking last week in the 38-17 win. While I thought Braelon Allen was going to be the star running back for Wisconsin, Chez Mellusi stole the show, rolling up 157 yards and reaching the end zone twice. Tanner Mordecai’s play was uneven, as he threw two interceptions against the Bulls.
Washington State might not have a conference to play in next year yet, but they certainly have a quarterback. Cameron Ward was outstanding in the 50-24 win over Colorado State, throwing for 451 yards and three touchdowns. The problem for the Cougars is they don’t have much of a running game, so if Wisconsin’s pass defense is good, it could be a long night.
This could be the best game of the week involving a Big Ten team. It’s never easy to go into Pullman and leave with a win, and Saturday night will be no different. I do believe Wisconsin squeaks out a win since they have a little more balance on offense. The Cougars are going to put up a fight, though. Ward has a monster game in a tight loss for Wazzu.
Wisconsin 34, Washington State 31
Charlotte v. Maryland (-24.5) - 7:30 p.m. - NBC
I can’t believe this game is the primetime NBC game this week. Then again, I guess NBC decided not to waste one of their bullets when pretty much everyone is going to be tuning into Texas-Alabama.
Much like Michigan, Maryland didn’t have to expend a ton of energy in a 38-6 win over Towson. The 49ers are coming off a 3-9 season, and they made a change at head coach, hiring something called Biff Poggi. Maybe Biff gets the program headed in the right direction, I just don’t see that happening on Saturday night against Taulia Tagovailoa and the high-powered Maryland offense.
Maryland 48, Charlotte 17
Eastern Michigan v. Minnesota (-20.5) - 7:30 p.m. - Big Ten Network
Are we sure Minnesota can even score 21 points? The offense of the Golden Gophers looked pretty inept last week against Nebraska. Running back Sean Tyler certainly isn’t anywhere close to as dangerous as Mo Ibrahim was for Minnesota over the last few years. The good news for the Golden Gophers is they still have a really good defense.
I’m not going to pretend to know much about Eastern Michigan. All I know is they used to have a quarterback named Brogan, and they play on a gray field in Ypsilanti. I feel like recently the Eagles have been alright against Power 5 schools when they were a heavy underdog. Minnesota wins, they just don’t run away from Eastern Michigan.
Minnesota 28, Eastern Michigan 13
Temple v. Rutgers (-9.5) - 7:30 p.m. - Big Ten Network
Rutgers had little trouble with Northwestern last week, bullying the Wildcats on Sunday. I feel like a 24-7 win for the Scarlet Knights is similar to a 49-10 win for a normal school. Rutgers plays solid defense and tries not to make too many mistakes on offense. Kyle Monangai is a good running back. he’s just not a game changer.
Temple hung with Rutgers last year, falling 16-14 to the Scarlet Knights. E.J. Warner should give Rutgers more issues than Ben Bryant did last week. Against Akron, Warner threw for 292 yards and two scores. Asking Rutgers to win by at least 10 points against a team with even the littlest bit of a pulse feels like a big ask.
Rutgers 24, Temple 20
Youngstown State v. No. 5 Ohio State (-41.5) - 12:00 p.m. - Big Ten Network
If you want to see a write-up for this game, check out the game preview that was posted on Friday morning. Since it’s Youngstown State, we all know Ohio State is going to win. The Buckeyes are more athletic and deeper. Anything else you need to know can be found in the preview.
Ohio State 55, Youngstown State 3
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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 John Fisher/Getty Images
With no B1G conference games this week, the battle between the Badgers and Cougars looks like the best contest involving a Big Ten team.
Last week ATS: 8-10 (2-6 National, 6-4 B1G)
Season ATS: 12-13 (6-9 National, 6-4 B1G)
To check out my picks for Texas-Alabama, Ole Miss-Tulane, and six other national games, you can find them here.
B1G games:
Illinois v. Kansas (-3) - Friday 9/8 7:30 p.m. - ESPN2
Illinois was pushed to the limit by Toledo last week. The Fighting Illini of years past would have found a way to lose that game. Quarterback Luke Altmyer totaled nearly 300 yards, including a big pass late in the fourth quarter that put Illinois in position to win the game. The defense is a bit of a concern though, as they gave up 417 yards to the Toledo offense.
Kansas didn’t have quarterback Jalon Daniels last week against Missouri State. The Jayhawks didn’t need Daniels, as Jason Bean threw for 276 yards and two scores. Daniels has been cleared to play this week, although it is unknown if he will start tonight, or how much he’ll play in the game.
Illinois lost a lot from last year’s team, including star running back Chase Brown. Even though I like the direction the Fighting Illini is headed, I think Kansas gets the win in Lawrence tonight. Whether Daniels or Bean starts, I think they’ll have a little too much for an Illinois defense that has shown they have some holes.
Kansas 31, Illinois 24
Nebraska v. No. 22 Colorado (-2.5) - 12:00 p.m. - FOX
How fun was Colorado on Saturday? Travis Hunter is the next coming of Chris Gamble, while Shedeur Sanders threw for 510 yards and four touchdowns. The Buffaloes could have easily folded in the game after some of the TCU scores, but Deion Sanders pushed his team to keep making plays.
New coach, same old Nebraska. The Cornhuskers found another way to snatch defeat from the jaws of victory. If Nebraska can’t beat Minnesota on the road, what hope do they have in Boulder in Coach Prime’s home debut? I just don’t see how Nebraska’s anemic offense can keep pace with the Buffaloes. The other shoe is going to drop at some point on Colorado, it’s just not gonna happen this week.
Colorado 38, Nebraska 23
Purdue v. Virginia Tech (-3) - 12:00 p.m. - ESPN2
I already feel like picking this game is a lost cause. Whenever I pick one side of Purdue games, the other side hits (last week against Fresno State is a prime example). The same can be said about Virginia Tech games. What’s the point in diving deeper into my prediction for this game because it’s like going to be the exact opposite, so the best side in the game is going against my pick.
I’ll take the points with Purdue. The mystique of Lane Stadium isn’t nearly what it used to be.
Purdue 28, Virginia Tech 24
UNLV v. No. 2 Michigan (-36.5) - 3:30 p.m. - CBS
Are the Wolverines holding a candlelight vigil before the first snap for their fallen leader? Will there be a fundraiser for Jim Harbaugh’s family to help after his passing? Sorry, I’m hearing news that Harbaugh didn’t actually die, his team was just acting like he did. Apparently Michigan players and fans also don’t know what “self-imposed” means.
Michigan could have named their score against East Carolina. Instead, the Wolverines packed it in for the second half and did absolutely nothing. While the exact same thing could happen this week against another cupcake, I think Michigan gives a little more effort in the second half since it’ll be their first game on CBS after the Big Ten’s new media contract.
Michigan 51, UNLV 10
Iowa (-3.5) v. Iowa State - 3:30 p.m. - FOX
If any Iowa State players are reading this, just remember that betting is very bad and you shouldn’t do it. To everyone else, please keep reading. The Cyclones are without quarterback Hunter Dekkers, who won’t be available because of a betting scandal. In place of Dekkers, redshirt freshman quarterback Rocco Becht started against Northern Iowa, going 10-of-13 for 113 yards and two scores in the 30-9 win.
Even though they scored just 24 points, Iowa’s offense actually looked pretty good last week against Utah State. There are still questions about Cade McNamara’s health as he deals with a calf injury. If McNamara played last week, I have to believe he’ll be on the field for El Assico! A rejuvenated Hawkeye offense keeps Brian Ferentz on track for his goal of 25 points per game, while the defense makes life miserable for Becht and the Cyclones.
Iowa 27, Iowa State 14
UTEP (-1.5) v. Northwestern - 3:30 p.m. - Big Ten Network
At some point Northwestern has to win a game. This feels like their best shot to do so. The Wildcats can’t look as bad as they did last week. Ben Bryant is an experienced quarterback, and he should look better this week in his second game with the Wildcats. Northwestern should also be able to get their running game going a little more than they did against the Scarlet Knights, which isn’t saying much.
As bad as Northwestern is, I’m not ready to take UTEP as a road favorite against a Power 5 school. After the Wildcats win on Saturday, he should just retire because it’s not going to get any better than this for him.
Northwestern 20, UTEP 17
No. 19 Wisconsin (-6.5) v. Washington State - 7:30 p.m. - ABC
Even though it was only against Buffalo, the Badgers were clicking last week in the 38-17 win. While I thought Braelon Allen was going to be the star running back for Wisconsin, Chez Mellusi stole the show, rolling up 157 yards and reaching the end zone twice. Tanner Mordecai’s play was uneven, as he threw two interceptions against the Bulls.
Washington State might not have a conference to play in next year yet, but they certainly have a quarterback. Cameron Ward was outstanding in the 50-24 win over Colorado State, throwing for 451 yards and three touchdowns. The problem for the Cougars is they don’t have much of a running game, so if Wisconsin’s pass defense is good, it could be a long night.
This could be the best game of the week involving a Big Ten team. It’s never easy to go into Pullman and leave with a win, and Saturday night will be no different. I do believe Wisconsin squeaks out a win since they have a little more balance on offense. The Cougars are going to put up a fight, though. Ward has a monster game in a tight loss for Wazzu.
Wisconsin 34, Washington State 31
Charlotte v. Maryland (-24.5) - 7:30 p.m. - NBC
I can’t believe this game is the primetime NBC game this week. Then again, I guess NBC decided not to waste one of their bullets when pretty much everyone is going to be tuning into Texas-Alabama.
Much like Michigan, Maryland didn’t have to expend a ton of energy in a 38-6 win over Towson. The 49ers are coming off a 3-9 season, and they made a change at head coach, hiring something called Biff Poggi. Maybe Biff gets the program headed in the right direction, I just don’t see that happening on Saturday night against Taulia Tagovailoa and the high-powered Maryland offense.
Maryland 48, Charlotte 17
Eastern Michigan v. Minnesota (-20.5) - 7:30 p.m. - Big Ten Network
Are we sure Minnesota can even score 21 points? The offense of the Golden Gophers looked pretty inept last week against Nebraska. Running back Sean Tyler certainly isn’t anywhere close to as dangerous as Mo Ibrahim was for Minnesota over the last few years. The good news for the Golden Gophers is they still have a really good defense.
I’m not going to pretend to know much about Eastern Michigan. All I know is they used to have a quarterback named Brogan, and they play on a gray field in Ypsilanti. I feel like recently the Eagles have been alright against Power 5 schools when they were a heavy underdog. Minnesota wins, they just don’t run away from Eastern Michigan.
Minnesota 28, Eastern Michigan 13
Temple v. Rutgers (-9.5) - 7:30 p.m. - Big Ten Network
Rutgers had little trouble with Northwestern last week, bullying the Wildcats on Sunday. I feel like a 24-7 win for the Scarlet Knights is similar to a 49-10 win for a normal school. Rutgers plays solid defense and tries not to make too many mistakes on offense. Kyle Monangai is a good running back. he’s just not a game changer.
Temple hung with Rutgers last year, falling 16-14 to the Scarlet Knights. E.J. Warner should give Rutgers more issues than Ben Bryant did last week. Against Akron, Warner threw for 292 yards and two scores. Asking Rutgers to win by at least 10 points against a team with even the littlest bit of a pulse feels like a big ask.
Rutgers 24, Temple 20
Youngstown State v. No. 5 Ohio State (-41.5) - 12:00 p.m. - Big Ten Network
If you want to see a write-up for this game, check out the game preview that was posted on Friday morning. Since it’s Youngstown State, we all know Ohio State is going to win. The Buckeyes are more athletic and deeper. Anything else you need to know can be found in the preview.
Ohio State 55, Youngstown State 3
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