North Columbus News

The Ohio State University Department of Athletics has announced a series of changes to the game day experience at Ohio Stadium for the upcoming football season. The initiative, called “Tradition Evolved,” aims to build on longstanding traditions while introducing new elements designed to enhance fan engagement and stadium atmosphere.

“Tradition at Ohio State is our North Star,” said Ross Bjork, Senior Vice President and Wolfe Foundation-Eugene Smith Endowed Athletics Director. “As this process unfolded, we wanted to protect and honor our tradition while also evolving it with purpose, passion, and with Buckeye Nation at the heart of it.”

Several established traditions will continue with updates. The Victory Bell, traditionally rung by Alpha Phi Omega members after each Buckeye win, will now also sound before kickoff to energize fans. In recognition of the 50th anniversary of his second Heisman Trophy, Archie Griffin will serve as the first pregame Victory Bell ringer on August 30 when Ohio State faces Texas. Griffin will also help select future bell ringers alongside Alpha Phi Omega.

The bell’s ring will now be used as the official sound for third downs in the stadium. Above the bell are words etched into concrete from 1922: “For Vigor.” This phrase is intended to symbolize effort and enthusiasm that the department encourages from fans.

A new item called THE Towel has been introduced as a symbol for fans’ support. Around 100,000 towels in scarlet and gray will be distributed free at the season opener against Texas. Fans are encouraged to bring them back for future games.

Color-coordinated themes have been scheduled for three home games this year:

- Scarlet Out on August 30 vs. Texas (https://gobuckeyes.com/pages/scarlet-out)

- Helmet Stripe on September 13 vs. Ohio (https://gobuckeyes.com/pages/helmet-stripe)

- Wear Black on November 1 vs. Penn State (https://gobuckeyes.com/pages/wear-black)

Each game will feature a unique entrance by Brutus Buckeye to add surprise and energy.

In an effort called Defend The ’Shoe, crowd noise that causes visiting teams’ offenses to commit false starts or use timeouts will result in Buckeye leaves being awarded visually on videoboards and signage in front of Block O sections.

The Best Damn Band in the Land (TBDBITL) will move back to its original location in the north end of Ohio Stadium—a change made possible by ongoing renovations supporting premium seating projects. This relocation puts TBDBITL on a concrete foundation rather than metal stands, which is expected to improve sound projection within the stadium.

“Hang On Sloopy” remains part of halftime traditions but may be played flexibly during second half moments based on crowd energy.

The Athletics Department is curating a new soundtrack for game days featuring songs that reflect state pride and identity. A highlight includes Columbus-based band Caamp’s song “Ohio,” which will play during each game’s first half along with visuals celebrating local people and places.

Block O student sections have been unified in the south stands this year for greater coordination and impact during games. Student-led initiatives such as card stunts and Defend The ’Shoe aim to increase participation from attendees.

Videoboard content will focus more heavily on real-time statistics, scores, replays, and full-board takeovers similar to those used during last season’s College Football Playoff home game against Tennessee.

There are plans for fewer but more meaningful presentations using iconic locations like North Band Ramp as platforms for recognition ceremonies involving individuals who have earned Buckeye leaves.

Key dates for themed games include Alumni Band & Cheer Day against Grambling on September 6; Homecoming & Hall of Fame Game versus Minnesota October 4; Military Appreciation against UCLA November 15; Senior Day versus Rutgers November 22; among others throughout the season.