Excitement is sky-high in Columbus as the Ohio State Buckeyes enter the 2024 season as arguably the best team in all of college football.
Of course, the Georgia Bulldogs will have a whole lot to say about that once the season kicks-off.
But the fact of the matter is to call Ryan Day’s squad legitimate national title contenders would be the understatement of the century.
It seems like Ohio State is trying to capitalize on all of the excitement that is surrounding the hungry-program.
From August 1-4, the Buckeyes will open their practices to the public, which is a phenomenal gesture, exciting many within the massive fan base.
However, there’s one catch … To attend the practices will cost you $50 a pop.
Don’t worry though, each person who purchases a ticket will receive “a pair of commemorative 2024 Ohio State training camp sunglasses” and access to the “family-friendly Fanfest.”
A total of 750 tickets will be available for each practice, with a limit of 10 tickets per order.
Needless to say, the decision to charge for practice access has sparked debate.
While tickets to the spring game were as low as $10, and tickets to non-conference games against Akron, Western Michigan, and Marshall are currently around $50 (plus fees), the practice tickets come with added perks.
However, at the end of the day, we’re talking about practices and not real, actual games.
For fans seeking even more exclusive access, Ohio State also presents the “Ryan Day Kickoff Luncheon.”
The luncheon will feature a Q&A session with Ryan Day and the coaching staff.
A table for eight at the luncheon is priced at $2,500, further emphasizing the premium placed on such experiences.
I don’t mean to make this whole situation bigger than it is.
Charging fans to attend open practices is hardly a new phenomenon. It has happened before – and it will continue to happen, especially at large programs.
Also, in this day of NIL, fans at least know that their money is (hopefully) going towards a good cause.
What are your thoughts on Ohio State charging $50 to attend their open practices?
Do you think it’s ridiculous and that the practices should be free (or at least cheaper) for loyal fans to attend?
Or do you not have a problem with it as long as the money goes towards NIL?
More importantly, what are your thoughts on the Buckeyes this season?
Is this the year they finally break through and win the national championship???