Hey Buckeye Nation, it’s almost time! This Saturday, April 12, 2025, our Ohio State Buckeyes take the field for the annual Spring Game at The Shoe. Fresh off that sweet national championship in 2024, the hype is real, and this is our first peek at what 2025 might hold. Whether you’re heading to Columbus or cheering from your couch, here’s the scoop—what to watch for, how to tune in, how to grab tickets, and all the juicy details you need.
What to Watch For
The Spring Game isn’t just practice with a crowd—it’s our chance to spot the next big thing and see how the team’s coming together under Ryan Day. Here’s what’s got me buzzing:
- Who’s the Next QB? Will Howard was a legend last year, but he’s gone now, and the quarterback spot’s wide open. I’m dying to see five-star freshmen Julian Sayin and Tavien St. Clair sling it—those kids have serious potential. Lincoln Kienholz is in the mix too, and word is he’s right there with Sayin in practice. I’ll be watching to see who’s got that cool-under-pressure vibe Ohio State QBs need.
- Jeremiah Smith, Superstar: Can we talk about Jeremiah Smith for a sec? That freshman tore it up in 2024—70 catches, 1,224 yards, 14 touchdowns. Unreal. He’s already a rockstar, and I can’t wait to see him light up the field again. Plus, I’m curious if he’ll help younger guys like Mylan Graham and Brandon Inniss step up.
- O-Line Shake-Up: The offensive line’s got some holes to fill after losing starters. Ethan Onianwa, Phillip Daniels, and Carson Hinzman are locked in, but right guard and left guard? Total toss-up. I’m crossing my fingers they hold strong against our beastly D-line—guys like Ethan Onianwa might just surprise us.
- Defense Reloaded: That 2024 defense was nasty, and with studs like Jack Sawyer and JT Tuimoloau, and we’re still loaded. I’m pumped to see the next wave—maybe linebacker Payton Pierce or DB Jermaine Mathews Jr. will steal the show.
- New Kids on the Block: Beyond the QBs, there’s fresh talent to watch. Corner Devin Sanchez and running back Bo Jackson are early enrollees with big upside, and transfers like Ethan Onianwa are already fitting in. Who’s gonna make us go “Whoa!” on Saturday?
How to Watch the Game
Can’t make it to The Shoe? No sweat—here’s how to catch every snap:
- TV: It’s on FOX at 12:00 PM EDT—yep, national TV, because that’s how we roll. Flip through your channels or hit up your cable guide to find it.
- Streaming: Grab the FOX Sports app or head to foxsports.com—just log in with your cable or streaming service (YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV, whatever you’ve got). Ohio State’s site might have something cooking too—peek at ohiostatebuckeyes.com closer to game day.
- Radio: If you’re old-school like me, tune into 97.1 The Fan in Columbus. Paul Keels and Jim Lachey will bring the vibes on the Ohio State Sports Network—check TuneIn if you’re out of range.
How to Get Tickets
If you’re itching to be there live, you’re in luck—tickets are cheap and still up for grabs as of today, April 10:
- Cost: General admission starts at $8—steal of a deal! Want something fancier? AA Deck seats are $20, and club seats run $37 (plus a few fees). Kids under 6 get in free for general areas, and students with a BuckID? Freebie!
- Where to Get ‘Em: Hit up Ticketmaster or call the Ohio State ticket office at 1-800-GOBUCKS. Group deals for 25+ are a thing too—just call ahead.
- Heads-Up: It’s two days away, so don’t sleep on this—tickets might vanish fast. Oh, and if you signed up for the Ohio State 4 Miler by April 9, you’d have scored a free Spring Game ticket. Too late now, but next year, right?
The Nitty-Gritty
- When: Saturday, April 12, 2025, 12:00 PM EDT.
- Where: Ohio Stadium—411 Woody Hayes Drive, Columbus. The Shoe’s gonna be rocking!
- What’s It Like: Ryan Day says it’s offense versus defense, starting slow with “thud” (no tackling to the ground) then going full-on. Bring your loudest cheers!
- Parking: Free lots open early—check ohiostatebuckeyes.com/gameday/parking for the best spots and shuttle details.
- Extras: Fan Fest kicks off at 9:00 AM at Remembrance Park—free food, fun, and a pic with the 2024 trophy! Want more? “Buckeye Experiences” like sideline passes are up for grabs if you splurge.
- Weather: Looks like mid-50s to low-60s°F, maybe a sprinkle. Pack a hoodie and check Friday’s forecast.
Why We Care
This isn’t just a warm-up—it’s a party for that 2024 title and a sneak peek at our repeat dreams. With Texas looming on August 30, every moment counts. Whether it’s Sayin slinging it or Sawyer wrecking plays, Saturday’s when we start believing again.
So, throw on your scarlet and gray, snag a ticket, or fire up FOX. The Buckeyes are back, and it all starts this weekend—let’s go, Ohio State!