Ohio State adds pricey on-field suites, sparking backlash over college football tradition

Ohio State announced the installation of on-field suites at Ohio Stadium, with each unit priced at $142,700 and accommodating 12 seated guests and eight standing places. The development was highlighted in a video shared by Buckeyes beat writer Conner Smith. The move has drawn sharp criticism from college football commentators such as Daryl Ruiter, who posted on X that the suites place affluent attendees in front of students, and radio personality Jonathan Smith, who mocked the idea that wealthy patrons care about watching the game.

Fans expressed concern that the suites push the student crowd and marching band further from the field, undermining the traditional atmosphere of college football. The backlash reflects broader worries about the sport’s increasing alignment with corporate interests and professional-league aesthetics. Observers hope other programs will avoid similar decisions to preserve the distinctive character of college football.