Ohio State’s Request for a Later Kickoff

The highly anticipated 2025 college football season opener between the Texas Longhorns and the Ohio State Buckeyes is set to kick off at noon Eastern Time on Saturday, August 30, at Ohio Stadium in Columbus. This decision comes after Texas reportedly declined Ohio State’s request to move the game to a later time slot, specifically to a primetime window on Sunday, August 31.

Ohio State officials aimed to shift the game’s kickoff to a later time, either in the late afternoon or evening on Sunday, August 31, during Labor Day weekend. The rationale behind this request was to capitalize on a primetime slot, potentially enhancing the game’s atmosphere and providing a standalone national broadcast window. Such a move could have offered increased exposure and a more energized environment for both teams.

However, Texas declined this proposal, opting to maintain the originally scheduled Saturday game date. This decision effectively ensured that the game would remain in its traditional noon ET slot, aligning with FOX’s “Big Noon Kickoff” programming. Sources close to the situation confirmed Texas’s stance, stating, “Texas said no,” when approached about the potential change.

Implications of the Decision

The choice to keep the game at its original time has several implications. For Ohio State, playing at noon may not provide the same home-field advantage that a night game could offer, especially considering the energy and atmosphere associated with evening games at Ohio Stadium. From Texas’s perspective, maintaining the Saturday schedule could be seen as a strategic move to avoid the challenges of a primetime away game.

Additionally, the decision impacts broadcasting dynamics. Had the game been moved to Sunday night, it would have competed with the Notre Dame vs. Miami matchup on ABC, potentially dividing viewership. By keeping the game on Saturday, both matchups can enjoy dedicated national audiences without direct competition.

Looking Ahead

As the season approaches, both teams are preparing for what promises to be a thrilling contest. Texas, led by quarterback Arch Manning, is eager to showcase its talent on a national stage. Ohio State, hosting the game, aims to leverage its home advantage, even without the primetime slot. The matchup not only serves as a significant early-season test for both programs but also sets the tone for their respective campaigns.

While the kickoff time remains a topic of discussion among fans and analysts, the focus now shifts to the on-field action. Both teams are poised to deliver a memorable game that could have lasting implications for the college football landscape in 2025.