Texas denied Ohio State’s attempt to move their game from noon on Saturday to primetime on Sunday.
The highly anticipated college football matchup between the Texas Longhorns and the Ohio State Buckeyes, scheduled for August 30, 2025, has stirred controversy due to its kickoff time. Despite being a marquee non-conference game, the contest is set to begin at 11 a.m. Central Time (12 p.m. Eastern) in Columbus, Ohio, as part of FOX’s “Big Noon Kickoff” series. This scheduling decision has drawn criticism from fans and analysts alike, who argue that the game deserves a primetime slot.
The decision to place the Texas-Ohio State game in the noon time slot has been met with disappointment, especially considering the game’s significance. Both teams are coming off strong seasons, with Ohio State making a remarkable playoff run and Texas finishing the season ranked fourth in the final Associated Press Top 25 poll . The matchup features two new quarterbacks—Arch Manning for Texas and Julian Sayin for Ohio State—adding to the excitement.
However, FOX’s “Big Noon Kickoff” series has been criticized for placing high-profile games in the early window, potentially limiting viewership and fan engagement. Some fans have expressed frustration, noting that such significant games deserve the primetime spotlight to maximize exposure and excitement .
FOX’s decision to schedule the game at noon is influenced by its broadcasting strategy. By placing top-tier games in the early window, FOX aims to dominate the ratings before other networks air their marquee matchups. This approach has been effective in the past, but it has also led to debates about the fairness and desirability of early kickoffs for fans and teams .
The fan community has been vocal about their preferences, with many expressing a desire for more evening games. Discussions on platforms like Reddit reveal a strong sentiment against early kickoffs, with fans arguing that primetime games offer a better atmosphere and viewing experience .
While the Texas-Ohio State game promises to be a thrilling matchup, the decision to schedule it in the noon time slot has sparked debate. As the season approaches, it remains to be seen whether FOX will reconsider its scheduling strategy to accommodate fan preferences and enhance the game’s visibility.
