COLUMBUS, Ohio — As the Buckeyes prepare to take on Penn State at Ohio Stadium, Ohio State’s police department is already preparing to ensure fans stay safe.
Ohio State University Police Chief Kimberly Spears-McNatt said they’re asking fans going to the game to arrive early and be patient.
"A lot of excitement around this game. It is a noon game and so everyone’s going to be up early in the morning trying to get here and so we want them to plan accordingly,” Spears-McNatt said.
For the first time in four years, two major pregame shows will be in Columbus Saturday morning, meaning campus is bound to be packed with fans.
Spears-McNatt said she’s hopeful fans will be understanding as more than 100,000 people head to one central location for the game. She added there are some things people can do ahead of time to help the trip go smoothly, like making sure, “you know which gate to enter, you know where to park, where they're going to tailgate, remember that we have a no bag policy,” Spears-McNatt said.
The only exception to the bag policy is small bags no larger than 5x8x1. You should also be prepared to hit traffic as you make your way in, especially with some road closures impacting the flow.
"Cannon Drive northbound is closed,” Spears-McNatt said.
While there’s still four days left to buy tickets, Spears-McNatt is warning fans to be careful.
"If you don't have tickets and you're looking to purchase tickets please make sure you use official website to make sure you're avoiding any type of scams or things where you're going to take a loss or loss of money,” Spears-McNatt said.
Also be sure to have a digital copy of the ticket downloaded to your phone once its purchased. Spears-McNatt added don’t be afraid to speak up.
"If you see something, say something. Constantly be aware of your surroundings but be really good fans and I think that's something that we really have to be mindful of,” Spears-McNatt said.
Kickoff is set for noon this Saturday at Ohio Stadium. Gates open at 10 a.m.