The Ohio State Buckeyes are year-in and year-out one of the best programs in college football. But even the team itself is reportedly starting to grow concerned about its fan base.

Outside of a few games against Michigan, Ryan Day and the Bucks always put a good product on the field.

However this year more than others, players and coaches seem to be hearing the noise from the people who are supposed to be supporting them.

Ohio State Buckeyes head coach Ryan Day leads his team onto the field prior to the NCAA football game against the Texas Longhorns at Ohio Stadium on Aug. 30, 2025.© Adam Cairns/Columbus Dispatch / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
Ohio State Buckeyes head coach Ryan Day leads his team onto the field prior to the NCAA football game against the Texas Longhorns at Ohio Stadium on Aug. 30, 2025.© Adam Cairns/Columbus Dispatch / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

Ohio State players reportedly upset with fans

Per one Columbus native, a member of OSU’s football team has expressed disgust with how the team’s fans have reacted to players making money.

“Friend of mine has a son on this @OhioStateFB team. He’s a lineman,” the person said. “Spoke to him during lunch today and he said the behavior from the fan base this year is a troublesome talking point to the team. Said the team is very aware and irritated by how fans treat them. (Expletive’s) sad (for real).”

CFB fans react to Buckeye fan base rumor

“These guys getting paid now this isnt just love for the game. Fans expect development and effort and for the coaches to put these guys in the right position and play the best players,” a user posted. “Fans who are threatening and sending personal messages are stupid and can go (expletive) themselves.”

“These young men don’t deserve hate,” another person replied. “Its ok to talk and (complain) a little. But don’t ever be that person.”

“I hate a lot of you OSU fans and yall need therapy,” a user commented. “too much of your identity is tied into the teams success.”

“Internet weirdos can’t stand it,” a fan said.

“The threats and attacks on the staff players and their families is uncalled for in every aspect and should not be tolerated,” another user stated.

One downside to college players making money through NIL now has been how emboldened fans feel to criticize and threaten them due to their compensation, and unfortunately it seems like that’s only going to increase the more revenues go up.

This story was originally published by The Spun on Sep 22, 2026, where it first appeared in the College Football section. Add The Spun as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

Source: Yahoo Sports