Broadcast Competition & Media Coverage in Ohio State Buckeyes Football
The Changing Landscape of Ohio State Football Broadcasting
Ohio State Buckeyes football continues to be one of the most-watched teams in college football, consistently attracting top-tier media coverage. The 2024 season has introduced a mix of traditional cable networks and streaming platforms, leading to intensified competition among broadcasters. With the Buckeyes’ national appeal and historic rivalry matchups, major networks like Fox, CBS, and NBC, along with digital platforms like Peacock, YouTube TV, and Hulu Live, are all vying for a piece of the action.
The Big Ten TV Rights Shake-Up
One of the biggest changes impacting Ohio State’s media coverage stems from the Big Ten’s new television rights deal. The conference’s $7 billion deal with Fox, CBS, and NBC has reshaped how fans access games. This agreement means Ohio State games are spread across multiple platforms, with exclusive streaming-only matchups added to the mix.
For instance, while many Buckeyes games will be broadcast on traditional networks like Fox, CBS, and the Big Ten Network (BTN), select games will be streamed exclusively on Peacock. This shift has caused frustration among some fans who are used to watching all games on cable and now have to subscribe to additional services to catch every Ohio State matchup【7】.
Impact of Streaming & Subscription Services
The increasing reliance on streaming services is altering the viewing experience. While platforms like FuboTV, YouTube TV, and Hulu Live provide access to most of the networks airing Ohio State games, there are still cases where exclusive games—such as the Michigan State game this season—are only available on Peacock【8】.
This exclusivity has sparked debates among fans, with some arguing that it fragments the viewing experience and increases costs. However, streaming services also offer advantages, such as flexibility in viewing and the ability to watch games on various devices.
Major Networks Competing for Prime-Time Coverage
Fox, CBS, and NBC are in a tight battle for Ohio State’s prime-time matchups, especially marquee games like the annual rivalry against Michigan. This year’s Ohio State vs. Michigan game, scheduled for November 30, will be broadcast on Fox at 12 PM ET, cementing its status as one of the most highly anticipated games of the season【7】.
NBC, which has typically been associated with Notre Dame football, has now entered the Big Ten mix and is leveraging Ohio State’s popularity to build its college football audience. Meanwhile, CBS, which historically focused on the SEC, is adjusting its college football coverage with Big Ten matchups, leading to further competition among networks.
Radio Coverage & Local Broadcasting
For fans preferring audio coverage, 97.1 The Fan remains the primary radio home for Ohio State football. The station offers live broadcasts, pre-game analysis, and post-game discussions, ensuring fans can stay connected even without a TV or streaming subscription【7】.
Advertising & Ratings Powerhouse
Ohio State football remains a ratings juggernaut, frequently ranking among the most-watched college football programs. Networks prioritize Buckeye games in prime slots because of their national following. Even non-rivalry games featuring Ohio State often outperform other matchups in terms of viewership.
Advertisers are keen to capitalize on the Buckeyes’ massive audience. Major brands target Ohio State broadcasts for high-profile ad placements, particularly during games against top-ranked opponents or during prime-time slots.
Fan Reaction & Future Outlook
The response from Buckeye fans regarding the new broadcasting arrangements has been mixed. While traditional cable users appreciate that most games remain accessible on major networks, the rise of streaming-only games has sparked frustration among those who are unwilling to subscribe to additional services.
Moving forward, it is expected that streaming will continue to play a larger role in Ohio State football coverage. The Big Ten’s evolving media strategy may lead to even more exclusive streaming deals, increasing competition among platforms and giving fans more choices—but at a potential cost.
Conclusion
Ohio State Buckeyes football continues to be at the center of a fierce broadcasting battle. With multiple networks and streaming services competing for coverage, fans must navigate an increasingly complex media landscape. While traditional broadcasts on Fox, CBS, and BTN remain strong, the growing influence of streaming services like Peacock is reshaping how Buckeye N
ation experiences college football【7】【8】.
