Columbus, Ohio, USA - 5 August 2023: Drone view Looking down at The Ohio State University Stadium set up for a concert.
In a move that has sparked intense debate across the state and beyond, an Ohio Republican congressman has proposed legislation aimed at ending the long-standing tradition of noon kickoffs for Ohio State football games. The idea, as unconventional as it may sound to some, is gaining traction among fans and constituents who believe that Buckeye football—an institution deeply rooted in Ohio’s identity—deserves better than the often maligned early time slot. This bold initiative, while not without its critics, has set the stage for a cultural and political discussion about sports, television contracts, and the influence of public sentiment on collegiate athletics.
The congressman, an ardent Buckeye supporter and lifelong resident of Ohio, introduced the bill with a combination of seriousness and passionate fandom. While he acknowledges that legislation affecting college football scheduling may seem frivolous in comparison to the larger issues facing the nation, he argues that this particular cause resonates with a wide swath of Ohioans. For decades, fans have voiced frustration over early kickoffs, which they believe diminish the overall experience of attending or watching a Buckeyes game. From tailgating limitations to the perceived lack of prime-time respect, the noon start time has long been a sore spot among the Ohio State faithful.
The proposal would effectively prohibit Ohio State from playing home football games at noon, requiring instead that games begin no earlier than 3:30 p.m. The congressman cited numerous reasons for the move, including the impact on the game-day economy in Columbus, the fan experience for attendees, national exposure, and even player performance. He framed the bill as a means to restore the spectacle and grandeur of Ohio State football, elevating its national profile and aligning it with other top programs that routinely play in more prominent time slots.
The argument for later kickoffs is not new. Fans and media personalities have often criticized noon games for lacking the energy and visibility of late-afternoon or evening contests. They point to the excitement that accompanies games under the lights—the buildup throughout the day, the electric atmosphere, and the increased likelihood of drawing national audiences. Television ratings also support the notion that prime-time games deliver better exposure, something that can influence everything from recruiting to merchandise sales. In that context, the congressman’s proposal taps into a sentiment that has long simmered beneath the surface.
Ohio State is, without question, one of the most storied programs in college football history. The Buckeyes consistently rank among the nation’s best, boasting national championships, Heisman winners, and a fan base that stretches across the globe. Yet, despite their elite status, they often find themselves scheduled for noon games—particularly against less marquee opponents. This phenomenon is largely driven by television contracts, which favor distributing top teams across all available time slots to maximize viewership throughout the day. While understandable from a business standpoint, this model often frustrates fans who believe their team should be showcased when the eyes of the nation are most likely to be watching.
The congressman’s bill would aim to push back against that model, using state influence to carve out a better position for Ohio’s flagship program. It’s a unique blend of sports fandom and legislative initiative, drawing both praise and skepticism. Supporters argue that the state has a vested interest in promoting its largest public university and one of its biggest cultural exports. They contend that later games would enhance tourism, stimulate local businesses, and better reflect the magnitude of Buckeye football. Opponents, however, worry about government overreach into collegiate athletics and question whether the legislature should involve itself in scheduling matters driven by broadcast rights and conference agreements.
The debate has extended into sports media, where analysts have weighed in on both the practicality and symbolism of the bill. Some see it as a stunt—an attempt to score political points with a passionate fan base. Others view it as a refreshing challenge to the status quo, a way to express dissatisfaction with decisions made far from the communities they impact. Notably, several former Ohio State players and coaches have voiced support for the idea, noting that later games often provide better conditions for athletes and more memorable experiences for fans.
Columbus, the home of Ohio State University, is also at the center of the conversation. Business owners in the area have long known that football Saturdays are economic boons. However, they also note that noon games limit the amount of time fans spend patronizing local establishments. A later kickoff allows for more pregame activity, from tailgating and dining to retail shopping, providing a significant boost to the local economy. In a city where Buckeye football weekends can bring in millions of dollars in revenue, the time of kickoff becomes more than just a scheduling matter—it becomes an economic strategy.
Universities themselves often have little direct control over game times, especially those in Power Five conferences like the Big Ten. Television partners such as FOX, ESPN, and NBC hold significant sway, selecting time slots based on audience metrics and contractual obligations. Ohio State, as a member of the Big Ten, is part of a media rights deal that places a premium on high-quality matchups being spread throughout the broadcast day. That often means the Buckeyes are tapped for noon games to anchor early viewership—a spot that carries weight from a network’s perspective, even if it’s unpopular among fans.
Still, the congressman argues that the interests of the state and its citizens should not be subjugated entirely to network priorities. He calls for a reevaluation of these deals, or at the very least, a greater voice for the schools and communities affected by them. His proposal includes provisions to begin dialogue with the Big Ten Conference and television partners, urging them to consider the long-term benefits of aligning high-profile programs like Ohio State with later time slots. Whether this approach can influence existing agreements remains to be seen, but the symbolic pressure may start to shift public discourse around scheduling practices.
Nationally, the move has opened a wider discussion about the role of sports in legislative spaces. While lawmakers have occasionally weighed in on issues like player compensation, sports betting, and Title IX compliance, rarely have they intervened in the day-to-day operations of athletic scheduling. This case could set a precedent for other states with major programs—especially those with passionate fan bases and substantial economic investments tied to college football. If the bill gains momentum, it may prompt similar initiatives in states like Alabama, Texas, or Michigan, where the intersection of sports and civic identity runs just as deep.
For now, the proposed legislation remains in its early stages. It faces numerous legal and logistical hurdles, and it’s unclear whether it would withstand challenges from conference authorities or broadcast networks. But regardless of the outcome, the conversation it has started is meaningful. It reflects the evolving relationship between sports, politics, and local identity, highlighting how something as seemingly simple as a kickoff time can carry weight well beyond the gridiron.
At its heart, this proposal is a love letter to Ohio State football. It’s a recognition that in Ohio, Saturdays in the fall are sacred. The congressman’s effort may or may not result in a legislative mandate, but it has undeniably amplified the voices of thousands of Buckeye fans who believe their team deserves the national spotlight. It’s a reminder that in places like Columbus, football isn’t just a game—it’s a way of life, and every detail, down to the time on the scoreboard, matters.
Whether the Buckeyes will soon be spared the noon time slot remains uncertain. But what is clear is that the passion for Ohio State football continues to transcend the boundaries of sport, uniting fans, lawmakers, and communities in pursuit of something more meaningful than just another kickoff—it’s about pride, respect, and the enduring legacy of one of college football’s greatest traditions.
