OSU fans cheer during a game against Michigan State on Nov. 21 at Ohio Stadium. OSU lost, 17-14. Credit: Samantha Hollingshead | Photo Editor

OSU fans cheer during a game against Michigan State on Nov. 21 at Ohio Stadium. OSU lost, 17-14. Credit: Samantha Hollingshead | Photo Editor

This weekend’s battle in Columbus was one I will remember for the rest of my life. I am 22 years old, living in Indianapolis after graduating from Michigan State in May 2015. I made my first visit to Columbus, Ohio, to represent the Spartans in thick enemy territory. OSU’s campus is the best I have ever seen. If I was a recruit visiting, I would be sold in a second.

I wanted to write this letter to acknowledge the very respectful and fun fan base I encountered. Most OSU fans greeted us well, welcomed us to their campus and let the competition build until the 3:30 p.m. kickoff. There were obviously some outliers, but for the most part, the fans really made me experience the great atmosphere of OSU. This was a much different experience than I have had in other college towns, including Ann Arbor, Michigan, where the environment was very hostile.

I watched the game at Donatos Pizza on High Street. My friend and I had a booth and offered two seats to two OSU moms standing around. Eventually, they brought their OSU husbands and friends equaling a group of 10 or so and only had two MSU fans in the bunch. This group treated us with the utmost respect and really opened my eyes to the great OSU fan base. We didn’t catch their names, but they paid for our meal and drinks and understood when we immediately left the restaurant after the outcome of the game. That group represented Buckeye Nation in the best manner and should be acknowledged. I can’t wait for my next trip to Columbus!

 

Brad Joynt

Indianapolis, Indiana