Ohio State Football 2024 Season: Kickoff Date and Schedule Outlook
The Ohio State Buckeyes are set to open their 2024 football season on August 31, 2024, against the Akron Zips at Ohio Stadium. According to the official Ohio State Athletics schedule, kickoff is scheduled for 3:30 p.m. ET, with the game broadcast on CBS. This matchup marks the beginning of head coach Ryan Day’s sixth season leading the program.
2024 Season Opener and Non-Conference Schedule
The Buckeyes’ 2024 campaign begins with a three-game non-conference stretch at home in Columbus. Following the season opener against Akron, Ohio State will host Western Michigan on September 7. After a scheduled bye week, they conclude their non-conference slate against Marshall on September 21.
The early-season schedule is designed to acclimate a roster that has seen significant personnel changes during the offseason. The team added several high-profile transfers, including former Kansas State quarterback Will Howard, who joins the Buckeyes to compete for the starting position, and former Ole Miss running back Quinshon Judkins. These additions come as the program looks to rebound from an 11-2 finish in 2023.
Big Ten Conference Realignment and Schedule Changes
The 2024 season represents a shift in the Big Ten landscape. With the addition of Oregon, UCLA, USC, and Washington, the conference has expanded to 18 teams. Under the new conference structure, Ohio State will face a challenging slate of opponents, including a highly anticipated road game against Oregon on October 12 and a home matchup against Nebraska on October 26.
The regular season concludes with “The Game” against Michigan on November 30 at Ohio Stadium. This rivalry game remains the focal point of the Buckeyes’ schedule as they attempt to break a three-game losing streak against the Wolverines.
Key Matchups and Dates
Fans and analysts have identified several critical dates on the 2024 calendar that will define the team’s postseason trajectory:
- August 31: Season Opener vs. Akron
- October 12: Road game at Oregon
- November 2: Road game at Penn State
- November 30: Home game vs. Michigan
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the first Ohio State game?
The first game of the 2024 season is August 31, 2024, against Akron at Ohio Stadium.
Who is the starting quarterback for Ohio State in 2024?
While the depth chart remains subject to coaching decisions during fall camp, Will Howard is widely expected to lead the quarterback room following his transfer from Kansas State.
How can I watch the 2024 Ohio State games?
Television assignments vary by week. Major games are slated for broadcast on networks including CBS, FOX, and NBC, consistent with the Big Ten’s current media rights agreements.