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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.
/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/24903035/Ohio_Theatre_Marquee_2019_f6d5942c1f.jpg)
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.”
/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/24903069/Screenshot_2023_09_07_at_8.18.24_AM.png)
/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.
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
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.
Continue reading...
LGHL MC&J: Wisconsin faces a tough trip to Washington State in Week 2 Big Ten action
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- 0 Replies
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
Continue reading...
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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LGHL Making the most of the Ohio State gameday experience
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Making the most of the Ohio State gameday experience
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 Jason Mowry/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images
Where to go, where to eat, and other things to do in Columbus when you’re not watching the Buckeyes.
With Ohio State set to host its first home game of the season this Saturday, many people will be flocking to Columbus this weekend to watch the Buckeyes take on the Penguins.
Even in a matchup that Ryan Day’s team should win with relative ease, getting to attend a college football game at a major program is a special atmosphere, and despite it being an FCS opponent, at least Youngstown State provides fans some added intrigue as an in-state school. Plus, many will be looking to take advantage of cheaper ticket opportunities to get into Ohio Stadium before some of the bigger brands come to town with much higher price tags.
As such, there will likely be a good amount of people attending their first Ohio State football game and are unfamiliar with the surrounding area. Getting to watch the Buckeyes is a ton of fun, but what are you going to do before and after the game? Well, we’re here to provide some recommendations about places to see, things to do, and the best local eats so that you can make the most of your gameday experience.
Buckeye Donuts
A staple of the Ohio State community since 1969, you cannot take a trip to Columbus without stopping at Buckeye Donuts. Open 24 hours, the establishment obviously specializes in donuts, and of course you have to try the fan favorite Buckeye donut — comprised of chocolate and peanut butter — or the apple fritter. In addition to pastries, Buckeye Donuts also has a pretty robust food menu, which includes breakfast sandwiches, salads, gyros, french fries and much more!
Hang Over Easy
If you’re looking for more of a sit-down spot in the morning, then Hang Over Easy is for you. A small diner located on the South side of campus, this Buckeye breakfast joint has been serving up the classics since 2007. The restaurant features creative dishes with comical names, like the Walk of Shame (a bacon, egg and cheese served on a glazed donut), the Silence of the Hams omelet, and other traditional breakfast favorites. They also offer hair of the dog options, including a variety of Bloody Mary concoctions.
Hot Chicken Takeover
A spot that I make sure I hit every time I’m at Ohio State, Hot Chicken Takeover is the place to go if you’re looking for some Nashville fried chicken in the heart of Ohio. With a handful of locations both in and near Columbus, including spots in Grandview, Clintonville and North Market, HCT offers wings, tenders, a sandwich and more at four different levels of heat ranging from mild to ‘Holy’. I would highly recommend the baked beans and Ma’s Mac on the side. The house ranch is fantastic as well, and also comes in a spicy variation.
Mikey’s Late Night Slice
As a native New Yorker, it wasn’t always easy for me to find a good slice of pizza in Ohio. Different people will tell you different things as far as the best pizza near Ohio State, but for my money, Mikey’s Late Night Slice was my favorite. The place sells pizza by the slice as well as full pies, and offers a variety of different toppings in addition to a special ‘Pizza of the Week’ and alcoholic beverages options. The Short North location is probably the most popular, but there are eight locations around Columbus in total, with most open well past midnight.
Tommy’s Pizza
For a more traditional Ohio State pizza option, Tommy’s is the spot. One of the most popular joints for a slice on game days because of its location right down the road from Ohio Stadium, Tommy’s has been serving Buckeye Nation since 1952. They specialize in ‘Columbus style’ pizza, which features a cracker crust, but also serve up subs, salads, sandwiches and a handful of other entrees with beer and wine available for dine-in customers. Tommy’s also has locations in Upper Arlington and Dublin.
Out-R-Inn
There are so many bars to choose from around Ohio State, but far and away my favorite bar in my time as a student was Out-R-Inn. Established in 1969, the campus staple has some of the best drink specials you’ll find, highlighted by Mug Night, which offers low-priced beer re-fills in a nice souvenir mug — a handful of which I still own and use regularly. The bar has a tremendous atmosphere with both indoor and outdoor spaces, pool tables, picnic benches, corn hole, and more. Out-R-Inn is a fan favorite for both current students and alumni alike.
Ethyl & Tank
Another personal favorite of mine, Ethyl & Tank is a bit of a smaller joint, but has a really inviting and relaxed atmosphere. During the day it is more of a restaurant, offering affordable eats for breakfast, lunch and dinner as well as a brunch menu and a full coffee bar. At night, it turns into a classic bar and hangout spot, with nightly specials and good music. Their 32-ounce beer ‘tanks’ on Thursday nights are a big hit. The bar has two levels and a good amount of tables and seating.
Pins Mechanical Co.
A bit further away from campus in downtown Columbus, Pins Mechanical Co. is a great spot to grab a few drinks and play some games. With both indoor and outdoor spaces, the bar offers a variety of fun activities, including bowling — hence the name — fooseball, pinball, and huge ‘patio pong’, which is essentially beer pong but played on a much larger scale with garbage cans and volleyball. Pins offers a large number of beers on tap and cocktails with daily specials on both drinks and games.
Buckeye Grove
Located just outside Ohio Stadium on the south side, Buckeye Memorial Grove is a natural museum honoring Ohio State’s football greats. Established in 1929 as a dedication to the first OSU football team, Buckeye Grove now features over 200 trees that are planted to honor players that are named All-Americans, with the most recent additions being Paris Johnson Jr. and Marvin Harrison Jr. in 2022. Each tree is designated with a plaque denoting the honored player.
The Woody Hayes Athletic Center
While you obviously can’t just walk right onto the practice field at the Woody Hayes Athletic Center, the facility’s lobby is open to the public, and on display are a variety of accolades and accomplishments from throughout the history of Ohio State football. Here you can find the 2014 National Championship trophy, multiple Heisman Trophies and bowl game trophies in addition to Big Ten Championships and more. Outside the building stands a statue of Woody Hayes himself.
The Oval
If you’re just looking to take a leisurely stroll around campus, then the Oval is a great place to start. A lawn originally used for livestock to graze, the Oval became the heart of Ohio State’s campus as it connects a number of important academic buildings. At the western end stands the Thompson Library, and in front you will find the state of William Oxley Thompson. The many crossing paths that make up the Oval are a result of the paths that students took over the years walking between the many buildings that surround the space. During the warmer months, you will find students here lounging around, studying, tanning or partaking in outdoor activities.
Mirror Lake
Recently renovated and restored, Mirror Lake is one of the more picturesque parts of Ohio State’s campus. Beginning in the fall of 2016, Mirror Lake underwent a massive facelift, and now features abundant plant life, a stone grotto, fountains and benches. It is a pretty and relaxing place to take a stroll, sit and read a book, or just get away from the hustle and bustle of the rest of a busy campus and city. If you’ve never been to Ohio State before, Mirror Lake is definitely a place worth checking out.
Columbus Zoo
One of the most famous attractions in all of Columbus is the Columbus Zoo. The fourth-largest zoo in the entire United States, the Columbus Zoo is home to over 10,000 animals from around 600 species. The 580-acre attraction, which opened in 1927, gained a ton of popularity because of wildlife celebrity and zookeeper Jack Hanna, who was the director of the zoo from 1978-1993. In addition to the many animals, from November to January are the famous Wildlights, which features millions of LED lights, animated musical light shows and more across the park.
Center of Science and Industry
Commonly referred to as COSI, the Center of Science and Industry is another popular Columbus attraction. The 320,000 square foot facility looks to engage visitors in science, technology and engineering through hands-on and interactive exhibits. COSI features live shows, a planetarium, and experiences such as a high-wire unicycle, a mini submarine, a dinosaur gallery and more. Unfortunately, COSI will be closed from Sept. 5 until Oct. 10 for annual maintenance.
Columbus Museum of Art
Established in 1878, the Columbus Museum of Art houses an impressive collection of American and European Art. The museum’s collection includes works by renowned artists such as Monet, Picasso, and O’Keeffe, and allows visitors to explore a wide range of artistic styles and time periods from the classic to the contemporary. An added bonus of the museum is that it is free to the public on Sundays!
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 Jason Mowry/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images
Where to go, where to eat, and other things to do in Columbus when you’re not watching the Buckeyes.
With Ohio State set to host its first home game of the season this Saturday, many people will be flocking to Columbus this weekend to watch the Buckeyes take on the Penguins.
Even in a matchup that Ryan Day’s team should win with relative ease, getting to attend a college football game at a major program is a special atmosphere, and despite it being an FCS opponent, at least Youngstown State provides fans some added intrigue as an in-state school. Plus, many will be looking to take advantage of cheaper ticket opportunities to get into Ohio Stadium before some of the bigger brands come to town with much higher price tags.
As such, there will likely be a good amount of people attending their first Ohio State football game and are unfamiliar with the surrounding area. Getting to watch the Buckeyes is a ton of fun, but what are you going to do before and after the game? Well, we’re here to provide some recommendations about places to see, things to do, and the best local eats so that you can make the most of your gameday experience.
Eats
Buckeye Donuts
A staple of the Ohio State community since 1969, you cannot take a trip to Columbus without stopping at Buckeye Donuts. Open 24 hours, the establishment obviously specializes in donuts, and of course you have to try the fan favorite Buckeye donut — comprised of chocolate and peanut butter — or the apple fritter. In addition to pastries, Buckeye Donuts also has a pretty robust food menu, which includes breakfast sandwiches, salads, gyros, french fries and much more!
Hang Over Easy
If you’re looking for more of a sit-down spot in the morning, then Hang Over Easy is for you. A small diner located on the South side of campus, this Buckeye breakfast joint has been serving up the classics since 2007. The restaurant features creative dishes with comical names, like the Walk of Shame (a bacon, egg and cheese served on a glazed donut), the Silence of the Hams omelet, and other traditional breakfast favorites. They also offer hair of the dog options, including a variety of Bloody Mary concoctions.
Hot Chicken Takeover
A spot that I make sure I hit every time I’m at Ohio State, Hot Chicken Takeover is the place to go if you’re looking for some Nashville fried chicken in the heart of Ohio. With a handful of locations both in and near Columbus, including spots in Grandview, Clintonville and North Market, HCT offers wings, tenders, a sandwich and more at four different levels of heat ranging from mild to ‘Holy’. I would highly recommend the baked beans and Ma’s Mac on the side. The house ranch is fantastic as well, and also comes in a spicy variation.
Mikey’s Late Night Slice
As a native New Yorker, it wasn’t always easy for me to find a good slice of pizza in Ohio. Different people will tell you different things as far as the best pizza near Ohio State, but for my money, Mikey’s Late Night Slice was my favorite. The place sells pizza by the slice as well as full pies, and offers a variety of different toppings in addition to a special ‘Pizza of the Week’ and alcoholic beverages options. The Short North location is probably the most popular, but there are eight locations around Columbus in total, with most open well past midnight.
Tommy’s Pizza
For a more traditional Ohio State pizza option, Tommy’s is the spot. One of the most popular joints for a slice on game days because of its location right down the road from Ohio Stadium, Tommy’s has been serving Buckeye Nation since 1952. They specialize in ‘Columbus style’ pizza, which features a cracker crust, but also serve up subs, salads, sandwiches and a handful of other entrees with beer and wine available for dine-in customers. Tommy’s also has locations in Upper Arlington and Dublin.
Drinks
Out-R-Inn
There are so many bars to choose from around Ohio State, but far and away my favorite bar in my time as a student was Out-R-Inn. Established in 1969, the campus staple has some of the best drink specials you’ll find, highlighted by Mug Night, which offers low-priced beer re-fills in a nice souvenir mug — a handful of which I still own and use regularly. The bar has a tremendous atmosphere with both indoor and outdoor spaces, pool tables, picnic benches, corn hole, and more. Out-R-Inn is a fan favorite for both current students and alumni alike.
Ethyl & Tank
Another personal favorite of mine, Ethyl & Tank is a bit of a smaller joint, but has a really inviting and relaxed atmosphere. During the day it is more of a restaurant, offering affordable eats for breakfast, lunch and dinner as well as a brunch menu and a full coffee bar. At night, it turns into a classic bar and hangout spot, with nightly specials and good music. Their 32-ounce beer ‘tanks’ on Thursday nights are a big hit. The bar has two levels and a good amount of tables and seating.
Pins Mechanical Co.
A bit further away from campus in downtown Columbus, Pins Mechanical Co. is a great spot to grab a few drinks and play some games. With both indoor and outdoor spaces, the bar offers a variety of fun activities, including bowling — hence the name — fooseball, pinball, and huge ‘patio pong’, which is essentially beer pong but played on a much larger scale with garbage cans and volleyball. Pins offers a large number of beers on tap and cocktails with daily specials on both drinks and games.
Campus Sights
Buckeye Grove
Located just outside Ohio Stadium on the south side, Buckeye Memorial Grove is a natural museum honoring Ohio State’s football greats. Established in 1929 as a dedication to the first OSU football team, Buckeye Grove now features over 200 trees that are planted to honor players that are named All-Americans, with the most recent additions being Paris Johnson Jr. and Marvin Harrison Jr. in 2022. Each tree is designated with a plaque denoting the honored player.
The Woody Hayes Athletic Center
While you obviously can’t just walk right onto the practice field at the Woody Hayes Athletic Center, the facility’s lobby is open to the public, and on display are a variety of accolades and accomplishments from throughout the history of Ohio State football. Here you can find the 2014 National Championship trophy, multiple Heisman Trophies and bowl game trophies in addition to Big Ten Championships and more. Outside the building stands a statue of Woody Hayes himself.
The Oval
If you’re just looking to take a leisurely stroll around campus, then the Oval is a great place to start. A lawn originally used for livestock to graze, the Oval became the heart of Ohio State’s campus as it connects a number of important academic buildings. At the western end stands the Thompson Library, and in front you will find the state of William Oxley Thompson. The many crossing paths that make up the Oval are a result of the paths that students took over the years walking between the many buildings that surround the space. During the warmer months, you will find students here lounging around, studying, tanning or partaking in outdoor activities.
Mirror Lake
Recently renovated and restored, Mirror Lake is one of the more picturesque parts of Ohio State’s campus. Beginning in the fall of 2016, Mirror Lake underwent a massive facelift, and now features abundant plant life, a stone grotto, fountains and benches. It is a pretty and relaxing place to take a stroll, sit and read a book, or just get away from the hustle and bustle of the rest of a busy campus and city. If you’ve never been to Ohio State before, Mirror Lake is definitely a place worth checking out.
Attractions
Columbus Zoo
One of the most famous attractions in all of Columbus is the Columbus Zoo. The fourth-largest zoo in the entire United States, the Columbus Zoo is home to over 10,000 animals from around 600 species. The 580-acre attraction, which opened in 1927, gained a ton of popularity because of wildlife celebrity and zookeeper Jack Hanna, who was the director of the zoo from 1978-1993. In addition to the many animals, from November to January are the famous Wildlights, which features millions of LED lights, animated musical light shows and more across the park.
Center of Science and Industry
Commonly referred to as COSI, the Center of Science and Industry is another popular Columbus attraction. The 320,000 square foot facility looks to engage visitors in science, technology and engineering through hands-on and interactive exhibits. COSI features live shows, a planetarium, and experiences such as a high-wire unicycle, a mini submarine, a dinosaur gallery and more. Unfortunately, COSI will be closed from Sept. 5 until Oct. 10 for annual maintenance.
Columbus Museum of Art
Established in 1878, the Columbus Museum of Art houses an impressive collection of American and European Art. The museum’s collection includes works by renowned artists such as Monet, Picasso, and O’Keeffe, and allows visitors to explore a wide range of artistic styles and time periods from the classic to the contemporary. An added bonus of the museum is that it is free to the public on Sundays!
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LGHL Stick to Sports Podcast: Watching the Big Ten on CBS was rough, and it’s going to get worse
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Stick to Sports Podcast: Watching the Big Ten on CBS was rough, and it’s going to get worse
Matt Tamanini via our friends at Land-Grant Holy Land
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here
CBS
College football in the streaming era is going to take some getting used to.
Land-Grant Holy Land’s Stick to Sports is unlike any podcast you’ve heard on the Ohio State beat. Your hosts, Matt Tamanini and Jami Jurich, will (of course) talk Ohio State sports, but the primary focus of the show will be on what’s going on around the periphery, such as weird/funny happenings in college football and the sports world at large, as well as other things that keep us interested in between games, whether that’s pop culture, social media trends— you name it.
Listen to the episode and subscribe:
We love watching college football, but either with bad announcers, terrible camera work, or by hiding games on random streaming services, it’s getting more difficult to enjoy games on TV. On this episode of “Stick to Sports,” Matt Tamanini and Jami Jurich get into the highs and (mostly) lows of Ohio State’s first game on CBS as part of the new Big Ten media rights deal and then go off on a bit of a tangent about how media companies have ruined a pretty good thing (the cable bundle) to chase streaming money, only to realize they should have never blown it up in the first place.
Jami’s Recommendation: “Leaving West 83rd Street” by Kenneth P. Marion
https://leavingwest83rdstreet.com/
Matt’s Recommendation: The Mycroft Holmes Series of Books by Kareem Abdul-Jabbar and Anna Waterhouse
https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/series/MTH/mycroft-holmes
Connect with Jami Jurich
Twitter: @JamiJurich
Connect with 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
CBS
College football in the streaming era is going to take some getting used to.
Land-Grant Holy Land’s Stick to Sports is unlike any podcast you’ve heard on the Ohio State beat. Your hosts, Matt Tamanini and Jami Jurich, will (of course) talk Ohio State sports, but the primary focus of the show will be on what’s going on around the periphery, such as weird/funny happenings in college football and the sports world at large, as well as other things that keep us interested in between games, whether that’s pop culture, social media trends— you name it.
Listen to the episode and subscribe:
Subscribe: RSS | Apple | Spotify | Google Podcasts | iHeart Radio
We love watching college football, but either with bad announcers, terrible camera work, or by hiding games on random streaming services, it’s getting more difficult to enjoy games on TV. On this episode of “Stick to Sports,” Matt Tamanini and Jami Jurich get into the highs and (mostly) lows of Ohio State’s first game on CBS as part of the new Big Ten media rights deal and then go off on a bit of a tangent about how media companies have ruined a pretty good thing (the cable bundle) to chase streaming money, only to realize they should have never blown it up in the first place.
Jami’s Recommendation: “Leaving West 83rd Street” by Kenneth P. Marion
https://leavingwest83rdstreet.com/
Matt’s Recommendation: The Mycroft Holmes Series of Books by Kareem Abdul-Jabbar and Anna Waterhouse
https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/series/MTH/mycroft-holmes
Connect with Jami Jurich
Twitter: @JamiJurich
Connect with Matt Tamanini
Twitter: @BWWMatt
Theme music provided by www.bensound.com
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LGHL You’re Nuts: Should charges be banned in basketball?
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You’re Nuts: Should charges be banned in basketball?
Connor Lemons via our friends at Land-Grant Holy Land
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here
Kirthmon F. Dozier, Detroit Free Press
Some say it’s a skill to tactfully fall down, others think it’s shameful. Where do you stand?
With our latest series of “Which Big Ten (Insert class here) will have the biggest impact this season, we are moving on. And we have a controversial one this week: Should we just ban charges in basketball? Are they that problematic now?
But before we get into it, let’s look at last week.
We debated which Big Ten senior we thought would have the biggest impact. Connor won with 55 percent of the vote with his pick of Zach Edey, while Justin got 30 percent of the vote with his pick of Jamison Battle. 15 percent of people picked someone else.
Here are the updated standings:
Connor- 51
And now on to this week.
/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/24904741/1237344282.jpg "Montana Tech v Boise State")
Photo by Loren Orr/Getty Images
Blocks and charges are two of the most difficult calls in basketball because of the gray area that’s involved. Some block/charge calls happen in the restricted arc under the basket, making the call — and potential review — a whole lot easier. Was the defensive player in the cirlce, or was he out? A call is made, maybe there’s a review after, but usually not.
Those calls right under the basket are the clear-cut ones. Adding this semi-circle drectly under the basmet makes it so that defenders can’t become traffic cones in the way of every single layup, dunk, etc. — you know, the highest percentage shots possible.
The confusing part is when a block or charge is called away from the basket.
The definiton of charge is “A personal foul that occurs when a player with the ball runs into an opponent while making no attempt to stop and/or change direction. The key factor in judging a charge is whether the defender was stationary or moving.”
The charge call prevents basketball from turning into football. A player should be able to utilize their strength to get past opponents and out-muscle defenders, but simply throwing your weight around to move your defender isn’t basketball. Slamming into your defender or pushing them out of the way isn’t basketball, either.
Charge calls away from the basket are tougher to get right 100% of the time because it is up to the discretion of the referee if the defensive player had set his or her feet or not before the offensive player made contact. However, there are also situations where a defender is not set, and the offensive player is still called for the foul because it was clear that the offensive player’s intent was too muscle right through the defender, not around or past them.
Even though it’s a problematic call, and we’ll never get it right 100% of the time, I think it is important to have a rule in place that prevents offensive players from using brute strength to score the basketball. If we just remove the block/charge call, basketball would just become a mix of football/MMA below the basket every game — what’s the point?
It takes practice, skill, and a lot of repetition to master footwork around the basket that helps you score around a defender. It takes hours upon hours of practice to master the art of escaping a defender without just plowing into them. Those things are what make the best players so impressive. We can’t get rid of the block/charge call.
Okay, so hear me out on this one. I recognize the premise of the question on the surface is crazy. Charges have always been a large part of the game, and they are just there, what do you mean they should be illegal, Justin?
Well, let’s talk about it.
I like to see the best players play. And last year in the NBA playoffs, two of the best players in the sport were hurt because of guys taking charges. Ja Morant and Giannis Antetokounmpo dealt with serious injuries because of late charge attempts by Anthony Davis and Kevin Love.
This is where it gets messy for me. If a player is set and ready to take the charge before the offensive player gets to his spot, fine. I still don’t love it and wish they would just play defense, but at least that way the offensive player knows the risk he is taking if he tries to take off for a dunk. But in both of these instances and many others, the defensive player is late rotating, and they do this in an attempt to trick the referee into making a charge call.
However, since the defensive player is late rotating and is still trying to get the charge call, the offensive player is already in the air and has no way to defend themselves or protect themselves. They will almost always have a bad landing, because they are essentially landing on a person.
Charges, in general, aren’t the issue. It is how they are called, enforced, and rewarded in today’s game. Have you ever seen a team inbound the ball, and as the ball handler turns around, the defender is just standing there and he falls down? That gets called sometimes. It’s truly no good for anyone.
Once players start getting hurt because a player is late to rotate or recover, something needs to change. And since I cannot trust the refs will start calling it accurately, let’s just get rid of it.
Continue reading...
Connor Lemons via our friends at Land-Grant Holy Land
Visit their fantastic blog and read the full article (and so much more) here
Kirthmon F. Dozier, Detroit Free Press
Some say it’s a skill to tactfully fall down, others think it’s shameful. Where do you stand?
With our latest series of “Which Big Ten (Insert class here) will have the biggest impact this season, we are moving on. And we have a controversial one this week: Should we just ban charges in basketball? Are they that problematic now?
But before we get into it, let’s look at last week.
We debated which Big Ten senior we thought would have the biggest impact. Connor won with 55 percent of the vote with his pick of Zach Edey, while Justin got 30 percent of the vote with his pick of Jamison Battle. 15 percent of people picked someone else.
Here are the updated standings:
After 116 weeks:
Connor- 51
Justin- 48
Other- 13
(There have been four ties)
And now on to this week.
Today’s Question: Should charges be banned?
Connor: No
Blocks and charges are two of the most difficult calls in basketball because of the gray area that’s involved. Some block/charge calls happen in the restricted arc under the basket, making the call — and potential review — a whole lot easier. Was the defensive player in the cirlce, or was he out? A call is made, maybe there’s a review after, but usually not.
Those calls right under the basket are the clear-cut ones. Adding this semi-circle drectly under the basmet makes it so that defenders can’t become traffic cones in the way of every single layup, dunk, etc. — you know, the highest percentage shots possible.
The confusing part is when a block or charge is called away from the basket.
The definiton of charge is “A personal foul that occurs when a player with the ball runs into an opponent while making no attempt to stop and/or change direction. The key factor in judging a charge is whether the defender was stationary or moving.”
The charge call prevents basketball from turning into football. A player should be able to utilize their strength to get past opponents and out-muscle defenders, but simply throwing your weight around to move your defender isn’t basketball. Slamming into your defender or pushing them out of the way isn’t basketball, either.
Charge calls away from the basket are tougher to get right 100% of the time because it is up to the discretion of the referee if the defensive player had set his or her feet or not before the offensive player made contact. However, there are also situations where a defender is not set, and the offensive player is still called for the foul because it was clear that the offensive player’s intent was too muscle right through the defender, not around or past them.
Even though it’s a problematic call, and we’ll never get it right 100% of the time, I think it is important to have a rule in place that prevents offensive players from using brute strength to score the basketball. If we just remove the block/charge call, basketball would just become a mix of football/MMA below the basket every game — what’s the point?
It takes practice, skill, and a lot of repetition to master footwork around the basket that helps you score around a defender. It takes hours upon hours of practice to master the art of escaping a defender without just plowing into them. Those things are what make the best players so impressive. We can’t get rid of the block/charge call.
Justin: Yes
Okay, so hear me out on this one. I recognize the premise of the question on the surface is crazy. Charges have always been a large part of the game, and they are just there, what do you mean they should be illegal, Justin?
Well, let’s talk about it.
I like to see the best players play. And last year in the NBA playoffs, two of the best players in the sport were hurt because of guys taking charges. Ja Morant and Giannis Antetokounmpo dealt with serious injuries because of late charge attempts by Anthony Davis and Kevin Love.
This is where it gets messy for me. If a player is set and ready to take the charge before the offensive player gets to his spot, fine. I still don’t love it and wish they would just play defense, but at least that way the offensive player knows the risk he is taking if he tries to take off for a dunk. But in both of these instances and many others, the defensive player is late rotating, and they do this in an attempt to trick the referee into making a charge call.
However, since the defensive player is late rotating and is still trying to get the charge call, the offensive player is already in the air and has no way to defend themselves or protect themselves. They will almost always have a bad landing, because they are essentially landing on a person.
Charges, in general, aren’t the issue. It is how they are called, enforced, and rewarded in today’s game. Have you ever seen a team inbound the ball, and as the ball handler turns around, the defender is just standing there and he falls down? That gets called sometimes. It’s truly no good for anyone.
Once players start getting hurt because a player is late to rotate or recover, something needs to change. And since I cannot trust the refs will start calling it accurately, let’s just get rid of it.
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