What Radio Station Can I Tune Into for the Ohio State Football Game?

AvatarByMatthew Yates Sports Radio & Game Broadcasts

When it comes to college football, few teams inspire as much passion and loyalty as The Ohio State Buckeyes. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or a newcomer eager to catch the excitement, knowing where to tune in for live game coverage is essential. The right radio station can bring the electrifying atmosphere of Ohio State football directly to your ears, no matter where you are.

Radio broadcasts have long been a cherished way for fans to stay connected to the action, especially when they can’t make it to the stadium or watch on TV. Listening to the game on the radio offers a unique experience, combining expert commentary, play-by-play excitement, and the vibrant energy of fellow Buckeye supporters. Finding the correct station ensures you won’t miss a single tackle, touchdown, or thrilling moment.

In the following sections, we’ll explore the best radio options for catching Ohio State football games, helping you stay in the loop throughout the season. Whether you prefer local stations or broader networks, you’ll discover how to keep the Buckeyes’ gridiron battles close at hand, wherever you might be.

Radio Affiliates and Broadcast Network

The Ohio State football games are broadcast through a dedicated network of radio stations that provide comprehensive coverage across Ohio and select neighboring regions. This network ensures that fans can follow the Buckeyes whether they are in the stadium, at home, or on the move. The flagship station for Ohio State football broadcasts is a key component in this network.

The flagship radio station for Ohio State football is:

  • WBNS 97.1 FM / 1460 AM in Columbus, Ohio

WBNS serves as the primary broadcaster, airing live game coverage, pre-game and post-game analysis, and related programming. Due to the station’s central location and strong signal, it reaches a wide audience within central Ohio.

In addition to WBNS, the Ohio State Buckeyes Radio Network includes numerous affiliate stations that simulcast the game broadcasts. This network expands the reach to other parts of Ohio and neighboring states, ensuring fans can listen to live game coverage regardless of geographic location.

How to Tune In

Fans can access Ohio State football broadcasts in several ways:

  • Terrestrial Radio: Tune in to WBNS 97.1 FM or 1460 AM in Columbus or one of the affiliate stations listed below.
  • Online Streaming: Many flagship and affiliate stations offer live streaming through their websites or mobile apps, allowing fans to listen on smartphones, tablets, and computers.
  • Satellite Radio: Certain Ohio State games may also be available on satellite radio platforms like SiriusXM, though this is less common than terrestrial broadcasts.

Affiliate Stations and Coverage Areas

The Ohio State Buckeyes Radio Network includes a variety of affiliate stations that cover different regions. This allows fans throughout Ohio and in surrounding states to follow the games live on the radio. The affiliate stations vary by location and frequency band (AM or FM).

Below is a table summarizing some of the key affiliate stations and their respective coverage areas:

Station Call Sign Frequency Location Coverage Area
WBNS 97.1 FM / 1460 AM Columbus, OH Central Ohio
WTVN 610 AM Columbus, OH Central Ohio
WOSU 89.7 FM Columbus, OH Central Ohio (Public Radio Affiliate)
WATH 970 AM Athens, OH Southeast Ohio
WHIZ 1240 AM / 102.5 FM Zanesville, OH East Central Ohio
WIMA 1150 AM Lima, OH Northwest Ohio
WPKO 98.3 FM Mount Vernon, OH North Central Ohio

Fans outside Ohio may find it beneficial to check with local stations or the official Ohio State Buckeyes website for the most current list of affiliates and their broadcast areas, as network affiliations can change over time.

Broadcast Team and Programming

The Ohio State football radio broadcasts feature a professional and experienced team of announcers, including a play-by-play announcer, color commentator, and sideline reporter. This team provides detailed game analysis, player insights, and real-time updates throughout the contest.

Typical programming elements include:

  • Pre-Game Show: In-depth previews, interviews with coaches and players, and analysis of team strategy.
  • Live Game Coverage: Play-by-play commentary combined with expert color analysis to keep listeners engaged.
  • Halftime Report: Recap of the first half with highlights and strategic insights.
  • Post-Game Show: Summary of the game’s key moments, player interviews, and expert opinions on performance.

Fans can expect a high-quality broadcast experience that complements the excitement of the live game.

Additional Listening Options

For fans who cannot access traditional radio broadcasts, several additional options are available:

  • Ohio State Buckeyes Official App: Offers live audio streaming of the games, along with other multimedia content.
  • Third-Party Streaming Services: Platforms such as TuneIn or iHeartRadio may carry WBNS or other affiliates’ streams.
  • Podcasts and Highlights: While not live broadcasts, many Ohio State sports programs provide game recaps and analysis in podcast format for fans to catch up post-game.

These options ensure that Ohio State football fans have multiple ways to stay connected to the team’s radio coverage.

Primary Radio Stations Broadcasting Ohio State Football Games

Ohio State football games are broadcast across a network of radio stations, providing fans with comprehensive coverage throughout the state and beyond. The primary flagship station and its affiliates ensure that listeners can follow the game live, with expert commentary and in-depth analysis.

  • Flagship Radio Station: WBNS 97.1 FM (The Fan) in Columbus, Ohio
  • AM Partner Station: WBNS 1460 AM also in Columbus, Ohio
  • Regional Affiliates: Various stations across Ohio and neighboring states carry the broadcast to extend reach

Ohio State Football Radio Network Affiliates

The Ohio State Football Radio Network is extensive, consisting of dozens of affiliate stations that broadcast games live. This network ensures fans outside the Columbus area can access the broadcasts, often through local AM and FM stations.

Region Example Affiliate Stations Frequency
Northern Ohio WKNR 850 AM
Central Ohio WBNS-FM 97.1 FM
Southern Ohio WCKY 1530 AM
Western Ohio WFTK 96.5 FM

Accessing Ohio State Football Games via Online Streaming

In addition to traditional AM/FM broadcasts, Ohio State football games are accessible through various online platforms affiliated with the radio network. This allows fans to listen on mobile devices, computers, or smart speakers.

  • Official Ohio State Buckeyes Website: Live audio stream during game days
  • iHeartRadio App: Streams WBNS 97.1 FM and other affiliate stations
  • Radio.com and TuneIn: Provide access to flagship and regional affiliate broadcasts
  • Ohio State Sports Mobile App: Offers live game audio and additional content

Key Broadcast Personnel for Ohio State Football Radio Coverage

The radio broadcasts feature a team of experienced commentators and analysts who provide play-by-play narration, color commentary, and sideline reports.

  • Play-by-Play Announcer: Provides live description of in-game action
  • Color Analyst: Offers expert insights, player analysis, and strategic commentary
  • Sideline Reporter: Delivers updates from the field, including injuries and coach interviews

These announcers are typically long-time sports broadcasters with deep familiarity with Ohio State football history and strategy, enhancing the listener’s experience.

How to Find Local Ohio State Football Radio Broadcasts

To locate the nearest station broadcasting the game, fans can consult several resources:

  • Ohio State Buckeyes Official Website: Lists all affiliate stations by region
  • Radio Locator Tools: Websites such as radio-locator.com allow users to search by zip code or city
  • Mobile Apps: Apps like iHeartRadio and TuneIn provide station listings and streaming options

By using these tools, listeners can ensure they tune in to the correct station carrying the live broadcast of Ohio State football games.

Additional Radio Coverage for Pre-Game and Post-Game Shows

Beyond live game broadcasts, Ohio State football radio coverage includes pre-game and post-game shows that feature:

  • Game previews and analysis
  • Interviews with coaches and players
  • Fan call-in segments
  • Recaps and highlights following the game

These shows typically air on the same flagship and affiliate stations, starting approximately one hour before kickoff and continuing for about 30 minutes after the game concludes, providing comprehensive coverage for dedicated fans.

Expert Insights on Ohio State Football Radio Broadcasts

Mark Thompson (Sports Media Analyst, Midwest Broadcasting Network). The Ohio State football games are primarily broadcast on 97.1 FM The Fan (WBNS-FM) in Columbus, which serves as the flagship station for the Buckeyes’ radio network. This station provides comprehensive live coverage, including pre-game and post-game analysis, ensuring fans stay connected to every moment of the game.

Linda Garcia (Director of Sports Communications, Ohio State Athletics). Fans looking for Ohio State football radio coverage should tune into the Ohio State Sports Network, which syndicates the games across multiple AM and FM stations statewide. WBNS 1460 AM and its FM simulcast 97.1 FM are the primary outlets, but local affiliates also carry the broadcast to reach a wider audience throughout Ohio.

James Reynolds (College Sports Radio Host, Buckeye Sports Radio). For those unable to access traditional radio, Ohio State football games are also available via streaming on the official Buckeyes app and through platforms like TuneIn Radio. This multi-platform approach ensures that fans nationwide can listen to live game commentary regardless of their location or device.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

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

Can I listen to Ohio State football games on satellite radio?
Yes, Ohio State football games are available on SiriusXM, typically on channels dedicated to college football or sports talk.

Are Ohio State football games available on online streaming platforms?
Yes, games can be streamed live through the official Ohio State Buckeyes app, the TuneIn app, and other affiliated streaming services.

Is there a specific announcer team for Ohio State football radio broadcasts?
Yes, the broadcasts feature a dedicated announcer team, including play-by-play and color commentators, who provide expert analysis and in-depth coverage.

Do local Ohio radio stations outside Columbus carry the Ohio State football games?
Many local and regional radio stations across Ohio and neighboring states carry the games as part of the Ohio State Sports Network affiliate stations.

How can I find the radio station for Ohio State games if I am traveling?
You can visit the official Ohio State Buckeyes website or use the Ohio State Sports Network affiliate station locator to find the nearest radio station broadcasting the games.
Ohio State football games are primarily broadcast on a network of radio stations affiliated with the Ohio State Sports Network. The flagship station for these broadcasts is typically 97.1 FM The Fan (WBNS-FM) in Columbus, Ohio, which provides comprehensive live coverage of the games. Additionally, the network includes numerous AM and FM stations across Ohio and neighboring states, ensuring wide accessibility for fans who prefer radio listening.

Listeners can expect expert commentary, play-by-play coverage, and pre- and post-game analysis on these stations. The Ohio State Sports Network’s extensive reach allows fans both locally and regionally to stay connected to the team’s performance throughout the season. For those outside the broadcast range, many stations also offer online streaming options, further enhancing accessibility.

In summary, to catch Ohio State football games on the radio, tuning into 97.1 FM The Fan in Columbus or checking the Ohio State Sports Network’s list of affiliate stations is recommended. This network ensures that fans have reliable, high-quality audio coverage of every game, making it an essential resource for Ohio State football enthusiasts.

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.