Episode Synopsis "Gene Smith emphasizes flexibility and control behind conference-only decision"

In a time of uncertainty, the Big Ten looked to gain some control ahead of the college football season. After the Big Ten announced Thursday that it would be switching to a conference-only schedule, Ohio State athletic director Gene Smith said that the change allows for more flexibility to move games around due to possible disruptions from COVID-19. “The biggest thing for us was the opportunity to have September and create some flexibility,” Smith said. “If we’re able to play in September and something occurs in late September or early October, we can pause. We can hit the pause button and provide a window of opportunity for student-athletes to not be put at risk.” The decision opens up the previously scheduled dates of Sept. 5, 12 and 19 for the Buckeyes to potentially move conference match-ups, if need be. Smith also said that the Week 0 game, played on Aug. 29, would also be available for a potential game. The first three weeks of September were originally set aside for games against Bowling Green, Oregon and Buffalo. Smith said that he talked to the athletic director of each team about the Big Ten’s decision — one which is not news to the Pac-12 and MAC conferences.

Listen "Gene Smith emphasizes flexibility and control behind conference-only decision"

More episodes of the podcast The Lantern's Sports Podcast

• Joey Lane sits down with The Lantern to discuss Men's Basketball team dynamic.
• Outlook and insight following Ohio State football draft decisions
• Football: Urban Meyer and his lasting impact on Ohio State
• Football: Ohio State’s Saturday game against Maryland canceled
• Podcast: How self-sufficiency could hurt Ohio State Athletics
• Podcast: The top five greatest single-game performances in Buckeye history
• How Ohio State’s athletic deficit could change the program
• Podcast: Inside the 2020 Ohio State Football Schedule
• Podcast: Who gets a ticket?
• Podcast: The current economics of college athletics (feat. Laura Pappano)
• Gene Smith emphasizes flexibility and control behind conference-only decision
• Podcast: The recent Ohio State lineage with the Washington Redskins (feat. John Keim)
• The revolving door of Ohio State athletic transfers