Buckle up, college football fanatics, because Ohio State just smashed their own records, moving 57,304 season tickets for the 2026 season. That number is absolutely wild, making it the highest season-ticket haul for the general public, faculty, and staff since at least 2009. Think about that: almost two decades later, the hype is reaching a fever pitch that we haven’t seen in forever.
The Buckeye Bounce Back is Real
This isn’t just a fluke, either. We’re talking about a sustained surge. Last year, in 2025, they sold 56,537 tickets, which was already strong. But 2026 blew past even that, and it edged out the previous recent high of 56,998 non-student season tickets set in 2024. What’s even crazier? Ohio State has actually sold over 56,000 season tickets in four out of the last five years. Clearly, the post-COVID comeback is a real thing, and fans are showing up in force, ready to pack the stadium. You love to see that kind of dedication, right?
November’s Double-Punch: Oregon and Michigan
So, why the monster numbers, especially when the home schedule isn’t exactly stacked with high-profile nonconference matchups? It all boils down to November. Seriously, mark your calendars. The Buckeyes are hosting both Oregon and archrival Michigan in their Big Ten slate, and those games are pure fire. Oregon is rolling into 2026 as one of the preseason national title favorites. Their quarterback, Dante Moore, is back, and their defensive line is absolutely loaded. These two teams duked it out twice in 2024, once in Eugene during the regular season and then again in the College Football Playoff quarterfinals at the Rose Bowl. Now, for the first time since the Ducks joined the conference, they’re coming to Columbus. Talk about a heavyweight bout!
And then there’s Michigan. Oh man, the Wolverines’ visit to Ohio Stadium is their first since that absolutely shocking upset of the Buckeyes back in 2024. You know that memory still stings, and the faithful are going to be out for blood. The atmosphere for that game? It’s going to be absolutely electric. That’s why these tickets are flying off the shelves, plain and simple.
Looking Ahead: The Rest of the Home Slate
While those November matchups are the main draws, don’t sleep on the rest of the home schedule. The Buckeyes kick things off with Ball State on September 5, then Kent State on September 19, Illinois on September 26, Maryland on October 10, and Northwestern on November 14. Every single one of those games is a chance for the team to gel, dominate, and build momentum before those monumental November showdowns. For anyone who snagged those 57,304 tickets, get ready for a season that promises some serious fireworks!
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Yahoo Sports.
Leave a Reply