Ohio State, Penn State presidents ask fans to watch game responsibly
Buckeyes and Nittany Lions urged to observe public health measures for Saturday matchup
Ahead of the highly anticipated football game between Ohio State and Penn State, the presidents of both universities are urging fans to continue adhering to public health guidelines while cheering on their respective teams on Saturday night.
Ohio State and Penn State are set for a 7:30 p.m. ET matchup and the game will air on ABC, the Ohio State Sports Network and the Penn State Sports Network.
“It is great to see our football team back in action. What we have always wanted is a chance for our student-athletes to compete in the sports they love. As a former collegiate athlete, I know how hard they have worked to compete at this level,” said Kristina M. Johnson, president of Ohio State. “We have one shot to finish the semester and season strong, and I know President Barron joins me in urging all of our fans to celebrate safely.
“I’m asking Buckeye Nation to make every game a home game and stay healthy by watching with their roommates and family members at home. Please make it a point to wear masks, practice physical distancing, not gather in groups of more than 10, and maintain good hand hygiene. Stay safe. Have fun. Go Buckeyes!”
Under current Big Ten guidance, public tickets will not be sold for 2020 home football games. Fans are encouraged to cheer on their teams from afar through virtual initiatives, while limiting gatherings. For the health and safety of the entire community, Penn State has put in place a number of restrictions to mitigate the risk of spread of COVID-19 on game day.
“I always look forward to the battle against the Buckeyes, even more so this year since I wasn’t sure there would be a match-up,” said Penn State President Eric J. Barron. “So many people have worked very hard to keep our student-athletes safe, and to make this possible for them, their friends and families and our entire Penn State community. The same is true for our Buckeye brothers and sisters.
“I ask every Penn Stater — students, faculty, staff, alumni and friends — to respect our team’s commitment and sacrifice, by cheering them on in a safe and responsible manner. That means social distancing, wearing masks and limiting the size of gatherings. Together, we can show We Are the best fans in the nation. Whether at home this year, or back in the stadium next year, We Are a community that cares.”
The game, the home opener for the Nittany Lions, is the fifth-consecutive primetime Penn State-Ohio State game in Beaver Stadium. The annual matchup is one of the highlights of the college football calendar, with 16 points deciding the last four meetings.
