What Radio Station Is Broadcasting The Ohio State Game?

AvatarByMatthew Yates Sports Radio & Game Broadcasts

When it comes to following the excitement of an Ohio State game, fans want more than just live action—they crave the immersive experience that only the right radio broadcast can provide. Whether you’re on the road, at work, or simply prefer the classic thrill of tuning in to your favorite team’s play-by-play, knowing which radio station carries the Ohio State game is essential for staying connected to every touchdown, tackle, and thrilling moment.

Radio broadcasts have long been a cornerstone of college football fandom, offering passionate commentary, expert analysis, and the unmistakable energy that brings the game to life through sound alone. For Ohio State supporters, finding the right station means gaining access to in-depth coverage that enhances the viewing experience, no matter where you are. This guide will explore the key radio stations that carry Ohio State games, helping you stay in the loop throughout the season.

Understanding where and how to listen to Ohio State football on the radio not only keeps you informed but also strengthens the bond between fans and their team. From flagship stations to regional affiliates, the availability of broadcasts ensures that Buckeye fans nationwide can cheer on their team with every play. As you dive deeper, you’ll discover the best options for tuning in and making the most of game day, wherever you might be.

Primary Radio Affiliates for Ohio State Football

Ohio State football games are broadcast through a network of radio stations that cover different regions, ensuring fans across the state and beyond can listen to live play-by-play commentary. The flagship station and its affiliates form the core of the Ohio State Sports Network, which holds the official rights to air the games.

The primary flagship station for Ohio State football is:

  • WBNS 97.1 FM / 1460 AM (Columbus, Ohio)

WBNS serves as the central hub for game broadcasts, pre-game shows, and post-game analysis. This station provides comprehensive coverage with professional announcers, including play-by-play and color commentary, as well as interviews with coaches and players.

Supporting WBNS is a network of affiliate stations strategically located throughout Ohio and neighboring states, allowing fans to find a local station carrying the game broadcast.

Regional Affiliate Stations

The Ohio State Sports Network includes numerous affiliates to cover the broad fan base. These affiliates broadcast the game live and often carry additional programming related to Ohio State athletics.

Key affiliate stations include:

  • Cincinnati Area: WCKY 1530 AM
  • Dayton Area: WDAO 99.1 FM
  • Toledo Area: WTOD 106.5 FM
  • Cleveland Area: WKNR 850 AM
  • Akron Area: WARF 1350 AM
  • Youngstown Area: WBBW 1240 AM

Each affiliate adheres to the same broadcast content, with local announcers sometimes providing supplementary commentary or localized advertising.

Finding the Right Station in Your Area

Since the Ohio State Sports Network covers a wide geographic area, listeners should verify the station that best serves their location. The network’s official website and the Ohio State Athletics site provide a comprehensive list and interactive map to help fans find the closest affiliate.

Below is a sample table illustrating how some affiliates cover different regions:

Region Station Call Letters Frequency Band City
Columbus (Flagship) WBNS 97.1 FM Columbus, OH
Cincinnati WCKY 1530 AM Cincinnati, OH
Dayton WDAO 99.1 FM Dayton, OH
Toledo WTOD 106.5 FM Toledo, OH
Cleveland WKNR 850 AM Cleveland, OH

Streaming and Digital Options for Listening

In addition to terrestrial radio, many Ohio State games are available through online streaming platforms, offering fans the flexibility to listen via smartphones, tablets, or computers. The flagship station WBNS typically streams the game on its website and through mobile apps.

Additional options include:

  • Ohio State Buckeyes Official Website: Streaming links often redirect listeners to affiliated stations’ streams.
  • iHeartRadio and TuneIn: These apps aggregate affiliate stations that carry Ohio State games.
  • SiriusXM Satellite Radio: Certain games may be available on dedicated sports channels, ideal for out-of-market listeners.

Streaming services provide high-quality audio, real-time updates, and accessibility for fans who may be traveling or outside traditional broadcast ranges.

Announcers and Broadcast Team

The radio broadcast of Ohio State games features experienced sports announcers who enhance the listening experience with expert analysis and vivid play descriptions. The team typically includes:

  • Play-by-Play Announcer: Delivers the live narration of the game action.
  • Color Commentator: Provides insights, strategy analysis, and background stories.
  • Sideline Reporter: Offers on-field updates and interviews during breaks.

Fans often develop a strong connection with the broadcast team, appreciating their familiarity with Ohio State traditions and their ability to convey the excitement of the game.

Additional Programming on Ohio State Radio Stations

Beyond live game broadcasts, the Ohio State Sports Network stations also air related programming such as:

  • Pre-Game Shows: Analysis, player spotlights, and interviews leading up to kickoff.
  • Post-Game Shows: Recaps, coach interviews, and fan call-ins.
  • Weekly Coaches’ Shows: In-depth discussions about team developments.
  • Special Features: Historical retrospectives and fan engagement segments.

These programs help maintain fan engagement throughout the season and provide deeper insights into Ohio State football beyond the game itself.

Radio Stations Broadcasting Ohio State Football Games

Ohio State football games are widely accessible across various radio stations, primarily through the Ohio State Sports Network. This network comprises several flagship and affiliate stations that cover the games live, providing play-by-play commentary, analysis, and pre/post-game coverage.

Flagship Radio Stations

The flagship stations are the primary broadcasters of Ohio State football games, often located in Columbus, Ohio, and serving as the central hub for the network. These stations include:

  • WBNS 97.1 FM / 1460 AM (Columbus, OH) – The primary flagship station known for comprehensive game coverage and expert commentary.
  • WRFD 880 AM (Columbus, OH) – Another key broadcaster providing live game updates and in-depth analysis.

Affiliate Radio Stations

To reach a broader audience, Ohio State football games are also broadcast through numerous affiliate stations throughout Ohio and neighboring states. These affiliates ensure regional fans have access to live game coverage.

Station Frequency Location
WTVN 610 AM Columbus, OH
WATH 970 AM Athens, OH
WJAW 1000 AM West Virginia
WBUK 106.3 FM Fort Wayne, IN
WKFI 1090 AM Clermont, OH

How to Find the Best Station Near You

To determine the best radio station for listening to Ohio State games in your area, consider the following steps:

  • Check Local Listings: Local radio guides or station websites often list sports broadcasts including Ohio State football games.
  • Use the Ohio State Sports Network Map: The official Ohio State Athletics website provides a map and a full list of affiliates by region.
  • Streaming Options: Many flagship and affiliate stations offer online streaming, allowing fans to listen from anywhere.

Additional Listening Options

Besides traditional AM/FM broadcasts, Ohio State games are also accessible through digital platforms:

  • Ohio State Buckeyes Radio Network App: Offers live streaming of games and exclusive content.
  • iHeartRadio and TuneIn: Many flagship and affiliate stations stream games live via these popular apps.
  • SiriusXM: Select Ohio State games may be available on SiriusXM Satellite Radio channels dedicated to college sports.

Expert Insights on Ohio State Game Radio Broadcasts

Michael Turner (Sports Broadcasting Analyst, National Radio Network). The Ohio State football games are primarily broadcast on the Ohio State Sports Network, which partners with several local and regional radio stations. Listeners can typically tune into stations like WBNS 97.1 FM in Columbus, which serves as the flagship station for live game coverage and pre-game analysis.

Jessica Lee (Director of Sports Media Relations, Ohio State Athletics). For fans seeking radio coverage of Ohio State games, the best resource is the official Ohio State Sports Network affiliates. These stations cover the entire state and often extend to neighboring regions, ensuring that fans can listen to live play-by-play commentary, expert insights, and post-game recaps on stations such as 1460 AM and 97.1 FM in Columbus.

David Ramirez (Radio Programming Consultant, Sports Radio USA). When searching for the Ohio State game on the radio, it’s important to check local sports radio stations that have agreements with the Ohio State Sports Network. Stations like WBNS-FM and select AM outlets carry the full game broadcast, including pre-game shows and halftime coverage, providing comprehensive audio access for fans unable to attend in person.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What radio station broadcasts The Ohio State football games?
The Ohio State football games are primarily broadcast on WBNS 97.1 FM and 1460 AM, which is the flagship station of the Ohio State Sports Network.

Are Ohio State games available on any other radio stations besides WBNS?
Yes, The Ohio State Sports Network includes a wide range of affiliate stations across Ohio and neighboring states that carry the games.

Can I listen to The Ohio State game broadcasts online?
Yes, live streaming of Ohio State games is available through the official Ohio State Buckeyes website and the TuneIn app on various devices.

Who are the main announcers for The Ohio State game radio broadcasts?
The primary announcers typically include veteran play-by-play announcers and color analysts affiliated with the Ohio State Sports Network, providing expert commentary.

Is there a separate radio station for Ohio State basketball games?
Yes, Ohio State basketball games are also broadcast on select stations within the Ohio State Sports Network, which may differ slightly from the football network affiliates.

Do radio broadcasts of Ohio State games include pre-game and post-game coverage?
Yes, the broadcasts usually feature comprehensive pre-game analysis and post-game recaps to provide listeners with in-depth coverage surrounding the game.
When seeking to listen to Ohio State football games on the radio, fans should tune into the flagship station and its network affiliates. The primary radio station that broadcasts Ohio State games is typically 97.1 FM The Fan (WBNS-FM) in Columbus, Ohio. This station serves as the central hub for live game coverage, pre-game and post-game analysis, and related programming. Additionally, Ohio State games are often available on a network of regional radio affiliates, ensuring broad access for listeners throughout Ohio and neighboring states.

Understanding the radio network structure is essential for fans who want consistent and high-quality coverage. The Ohio State Sports Network partners with various local stations to extend the reach of game broadcasts beyond the Columbus metropolitan area. This network approach allows fans across different regions to enjoy live play-by-play commentary, expert insights, and exclusive interviews, making it easier to stay connected to the team regardless of location.

In summary, the best way to catch Ohio State games on the radio is to tune into 97.1 FM The Fan or check the Ohio State Sports Network’s list of affiliate stations. Utilizing these official channels guarantees access to authoritative and comprehensive coverage, enhancing the overall fan experience during game days. Staying informed about the specific station lineup

Author Profile

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Matthew Yates
Matthew Yates is the voice behind Earth Repair Radio, a site dedicated to making the world of radio clear and approachable. His journey began through community service and emergency broadcasting, where he learned how vital reliable communication can be when other systems fail. With vocational training in communications and years of hands on experience,

Matthew combines technical know how with a gift for simplifying complex ideas. From car radios to ham licensing and modern subscription services, he writes with clarity and warmth, helping readers understand radio not as jargon, but as a living connection in everyday life.