In this episode of Bleav in Buckeyes, hosts Bryant Browning and Chimdi Chekwa dive into the evolving landscape of Ohio State football. They break down the Buckeyes’ current recruiting strategies, examine how NIL continues to reshape the game, and explore the ongoing challenges of building a dominant defensive line. The conversation also addresses the legal controversy surrounding Wisconsin’s lawsuit against Miami and what it means for the transfer portal nationwide. Plus, they emphasize why developing and retaining local Ohio talent is key to long-term success. A must-listen for fans who want insight into the future of the program and the shifting dynamics of college football.

Takeaways

• Chimdi and Bryant are actively involved in their kids summer sports despite the heat.
• Ohio State's recruiting class is gaining momentum with local talent like Cincere Johnson.
• The NIL landscape is changing how recruits make decisions about their commitments.
• Ohio State needs to adapt its recruiting strategy for defensive linemen.
• Wisconsin's lawsuit against Miami highlights the complexities of the transfer portal.
• The demand for defensive linemen is increasing, impacting recruitment strategies.
• Ohio State's defensive line depth is a concern for the upcoming season.
• The new ruling on buyout clauses could change recruitment dynamics.
• Recruiting local talent is crucial for Ohio State's future success.
• The conversation emphasizes the importance of competition and development in college football.

00:00 Introduction and Personal Updates
01:10 Ohio State Football Recruiting Insights
05:05 The Impact of NIL on Recruitment
09:28 Challenges in Defensive Line Recruitment
14:39 Legal Implications of Transfer Policies
20:58 Future of Ohio State's Defensive Strategy
24:26 Roster Changes Impact
26:56 Closing Thoughts and Future Prospects

Keywords

Ohio State football, recruiting, NIL, defensive line, transfer portal, college football, Chimdi Chekwa, Bryant Browning, Cincere Johnson, Wisconsin lawsuit, Ryan Day, Coach Larry Johnson, USC, University of Miami, Ohio recruits, Bleav in Buckeyes, Buckeye football,

In this episode of Bleav in Buckeyes, Bryant Browning and Chimdi Chekwa get real about where college football is headed — and how Ohio State fits into it all. From the impact of NIL deals on player value to behind-the-scenes funding shifts in the athletic department, they break down what’s really going on.

They also tackle the College Football Playoff expansion drama, why recruiting is getting wilder, and how programs like Ohio State can stay dominant. Plus, they show love to a legend as Lee Corso heads into his final GameDay season.

Takeaways

• The Ohio State Athletic Department is committed to retaining all 36 varsity sports.
• NIL deals are changing the financial landscape for college athletes.
• Content creation is essential for promoting lesser-known sports.
• The future of college sports funding is uncertain but crucial for maintaining programs.
• Playoff expansion in college football is likely to happen for financial reasons.
• Player valuation in the NIL era is complex and varies by individual brand.
• The Big Ten and SEC are in a strong position for playoff expansion.
• Engagement with the community is vital for the success of all sports.
• The impact of media contracts on game scheduling is significant.
• Lee Corso's legacy in college football is celebrated as he retires from College Game Day.

00:00 Introduction and Father's Day Reflections
01:40 NCAA Changes and Ohio State's Athletic Future
05:34 The Business of College Sports
09:56 NIL and Player Valuation
18:29 College Football Playoff Expansion
25:12 Recruiting Updates and Lee Corso's Legacy

Keywords

Ohio State, college football, NIL, sports funding, player valuation, playoff expansion, recruiting, Lee Corso, Big Noon Kickoff, Big Ten, SEC, College Football Playoff, College Game Day, Ross Bjork, Chimdi Chekwa, Bryant Browning, Bleav in Buckeyes, women's volleyball, college football, college baskteball, athletic department, business of college sports, brand deals,

In this episode, Chimdi and Bryant unpack the implications of the recent NCAA settlement and what it means for the future of NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) in college sports. As private equity begins to enter the collegiate athletics space, they explore how this shift could reshape team dynamics, recruitment strategies, and athlete compensation. The conversation highlights the tension between preserving tradition and embracing innovation—and how programs that strike the right balance will emerge as long-term winners.

Takeaways

• The NCAA settlement marks a major turning point in NIL policy and athlete compensation.
• Private equity’s entry into college sports could accelerate commercialization—and create both risks and rewards.
• Programs rooted in strong tradition must evolve to remain competitive in the changing landscape.
• Transparency, adaptability, and leadership will be crucial for athletic departments going forward.
• This new era offers both opportunities and challenges for athletes, coaches, and institutions alike.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Weekend Recap

01:53 NCAA Ruling and Settlement Overview

03:10 Impact of Private Sector on College Sports

06:27 The Future of College Football Funding

10:16 Power Dynamics in College Football

13:57 NIL Evaluation and Regulation

20:52 The Role of Tradition In College Football

25:05 Closing Thoughts and Future Prospects

Keywords

Ohio State, NIL, private equity, NCAA, recruitment strategies, commercialization of football, college football, traditions, premium seating, Bleav In Buckeyes, Power 5 conference, Big Ten, college sports, Innis riling, Chimdi Chekwa, Bryant Browning,