Bleav in Buckeyes

By BleavSports Football

Bleav in Buckeyes episodes

June 24, 2025Ohio State’s Recruiting Strategy: NIL, In-State Talent & D-Line Fixes
In this episode of Bleav in Buckeyes, hosts Bryant Browning and Chimdi Chekwa dive into the evolving landscape of Ohio State football. They break down the Buckeyes’ current recruiting strategies, examine how NIL continues to reshape the game, and explore the ongoing challenges of building a dominant defensive line. The conversation also addresses the legal controversy surrounding Wisconsin’s lawsuit against Miami and what it means for the transfer portal nationwide. Plus, they emphasize why developing and retaining local Ohio talent is key to long-term success. A must-listen for fans who want insight into the future of the program and the shifting dynamics of college football.
Takeaways
Chimdi and Bryant are actively involved in their kids summer sports despite the heat.

Ohio State's recruiting class is gaining momentum with local talent like Cincere Johnson.

The NIL landscape is changing how recruits make decisions about their commitments.

Ohio State needs to adapt its recruiting strategy for defensive linemen.

Wisconsin's lawsuit against Miami highlights the complexities of the transfer portal.

The demand for defensive linemen is increasing, impacting recruitment strategies.

Ohio State's defensive line depth is a concern for the upcoming season.

The new ruling on buyout clauses could change recruitment dynamics.

Recruiting local talent is crucial for Ohio State's future success.

The conversation emphasizes the importance of competition and development in college football.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Personal Updates
01:10 Ohio State Football Recruiting Insights
05:05 The Impact of NIL on Recruitment
09:28 Challenges in Defensive Line Recruitment
14:39 Legal Implications of Transfer Policies
20:58 Future of Ohio State's Defensive Strategy
24:26 Roster Changes Impact
26:56 Closing Thoughts and Future Prospects
Keywords
Ohio State football, recruiting, NIL, defensive line, transfer portal, college football, Chimdi Chekwa, Bryant Browning, Cincere Johnson, Wisconsin lawsuit, Ryan Day, Coach Larry Johnson, USC, University of Miami, Ohio recruits, Bleav in Buckeyes, Buckeye football,

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29 min
June 17, 2025NIL is Changing the Game — Are the Buckeyes Built for What’s Next?
In this episode of Bleav in Buckeyes, Bryant Browning and Chimdi Chekwa get real about where college football is headed — and how Ohio State fits into it all. From the impact of NIL deals on player value to behind-the-scenes funding shifts in the athletic department, they break down what’s really going on.
They also tackle the College Football Playoff expansion drama, why recruiting is getting wilder, and how programs like Ohio State can stay dominant. Plus, they show love to a legend as Lee Corso heads into his final GameDay season.
Takeaways
The Ohio State Athletic Department is committed to retaining all 36 varsity sports.

NIL deals are changing the financial landscape for college athletes.

Content creation is essential for promoting lesser-known sports.

The future of college sports funding is uncertain but crucial for maintaining programs.

Playoff expansion in college football is likely to happen for financial reasons.

Player valuation in the NIL era is complex and varies by individual brand.

The Big Ten and SEC are in a strong position for playoff expansion.

Engagement with the community is vital for the success of all sports.

The impact of media contracts on game scheduling is significant.

Lee Corso's legacy in college football is celebrated as he retires from College Game Day.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Father's Day Reflections
01:40 NCAA Changes and Ohio State's Athletic Future
05:34 The Business of College Sports
09:56 NIL and Player Valuation
18:29 College Football Playoff Expansion
25:12 Recruiting Updates and Lee Corso's Legacy
Keywords
Ohio State, college football, NIL, sports funding, player valuation, playoff expansion, recruiting, Lee Corso, Big Noon Kickoff, Big Ten, SEC, College Football Playoff, College Game Day, Ross Bjork, Chimdi Chekwa, Bryant Browning, Bleav in Buckeyes, women's volleyball, college football, college baskteball, athletic department, business of college sports, brand deals,

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
28 min
June 10, 2025NIL, Private Equity & the Future of College Football
In this episode, Chimdi and Bryant unpack the implications of the recent NCAA settlement and what it means for the future of NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) in college sports. As private equity begins to enter the collegiate athletics space, they explore how this shift could reshape team dynamics, recruitment strategies, and athlete compensation. The conversation highlights the tension between preserving tradition and embracing innovation—and how programs that strike the right balance will emerge as long-term winners.
Takeaways
The NCAA settlement marks a major turning point in NIL policy and athlete compensation.

Private equity’s entry into college sports could accelerate commercialization—and create both risks and rewards.

Programs rooted in strong tradition must evolve to remain competitive in the changing landscape.

Transparency, adaptability, and leadership will be crucial for athletic departments going forward.

This new era offers both opportunities and challenges for athletes, coaches, and institutions alike.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Weekend Recap
01:53 NCAA Ruling and Settlement Overview
03:10 Impact of Private Sector on College Sports
06:27 The Future of College Football Funding
10:16 Power Dynamics in College Football
13:57 NIL Evaluation and Regulation
20:52 The Role of Tradition In College Football
25:05 Closing Thoughts and Future Prospects
Keywords
Ohio State, NIL, private equity, NCAA, recruitment strategies, commercialization of football, college football, traditions, premium seating, Bleav In Buckeyes, Power 5 conference, Big Ten, college sports, Innis riling, Chimdi Chekwa, Bryant Browning,

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
28 min
June 03, 2025Big Noon Kickoff Controversy Unveiled
In this episode of Bleav in Buckeyes, hosts Bryant Browning and Chimdi Chekwa are joined by Ryan Glasspiegel of Front Office Sports for a deep dive into the shifting college football landscape. The trio tackles hot-button topics like the controversy around Big Noon Kickoff, the ripple effects of the College Football Playoff expansion, and the ascendant power of the SEC and Big Ten. They share candid thoughts on scheduling frustrations, how media decisions are affecting fan experience, and what the future may hold for the governance and structure of the sport. It's a must-listen for fans trying to make sense of the future trajectory of college football.
Takeaways
The Big Noon kickoff has sparked controversy among fans and teams.

Ohio State attempted to move their game to a night slot but faced opposition from Texas.

Home field advantage is perceived to be greater during night games.

Fans are frustrated with the scheduling decisions made by networks like Fox.

The expansion of the college football playoffs could lead to more teams participating but may dilute the quality of games.

The SEC and Big Ten are pushing for more representation in the playoffs.

There is a growing divide between top-tier programs and the rest of college football.

The balance of power in college football conferences is shifting.

Fans want to see more night games for high-profile matchups.

The future of college football may involve more consolidation among top programs.

Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction
01:29 Big Noon Kickoff Controversy
10:59 Game Scheduling Dynamics
16:22 College Football Playoff Expansion Discussion
19:58 NIL Player Compensation
22:51 SEC vs. Big Ten Power Dynamics
28:40 Closing Thoughts and Farewell
Keywords
Ohio State, Texas, Big Noon, College Football, Playoff Expansion, SEC, Big Ten, Ryan Glasbego, Front Office Sports, Sports Media, Fox, Ryan Glasspiegel, Chimdi Chekwa, Bryant Browning, NIL, college football playoffs, power conferences, Buckeyes, Brett Bielema, college football playoffs

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30 min
May 23, 2025 Big Noon Big Mistake! w/ Ben Axelrod
Bryant Browning and Chimdi Chekwa are joined by Ben Axelrod of Awful Announcing to break down Ohio State’s 2025 schedule, including the controversial noon kickoff vs. Texas. They explore the ripple effects on fan experience, recruiting, and the Horseshoe atmosphere — plus Urban Meyer’s scheduling legacy and what the new College Football Playoff means for the Buckeyes. Tune in right here, on the Bleav in Buckeyes podcast!
01:41 Discussion on College Football Season and Game Scheduling
08:04 The Impact of Game Timing on Atmosphere and Viewership
10:52 Urban Meyer’s Influence and Pressure on Game Scheduling
18:30 Ohio State's Performance and Expectations for the Upcoming Season
25:16 Changes in College Football Playoff Format and Its Implication

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31 min
May 20, 2025Power Shift: Jim Cavale on NIL, Athletes' Rights, and the Future of College Sports
In this episode, Bleav in Buckeyes bring on guest, Jim Cavale the founder of Athletes.org). The episode dives into the rapidly changing world of college athletics, breaking down the impact of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deals on student-athletes and the industry as a whole. Bryant and Chimdi learn more about Athletes.org, a groundbreaking initiative designed to give college athletes a seat at the table through collective representation and bargaining. From the financial realities of college sports to the true value of athlete contributions, the discussion covers powerful insights on why it's time for athletes to have a stronger voice in shaping their futures.
Takeaways
NIL deals are often misrepresented as true endorsements.

The majority of NIL funding comes from donors, not brands.

College athletics is facing a financial bubble that may burst soon.

Athletes need to collectively bargain to gain fair compensation.

The current system lacks transparency in athlete valuation.

There is a significant disparity in revenue sharing among college sports teams.

Collective bargaining could help address Title IX concerns in sports funding.

The establishment of athletes.org aims to unify athlete representation.

Athletes must be involved in negotiations to ensure their interests are met.

The future of college sports may require a restructuring of leagues and media deals.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to NIL and College Athletics
05:03 The Role of Athletes.org in College Sports
12:01 Understanding NIL Deals and Their Impact
16:05 The Financial Landscape of College Athletics
20:59 Challenges in Representation and Negotiation
26:56 Funding the Future of College Athlete Representation
Keywords
NIL, college athletics, athletes.org, Jim Cavale, collective bargaining, college football, athlete representation, transfer portal, sports economics, NCAA, Ohio State, Bleav In Buckeyes, collective bargaining, union, player representation, shared revenue, media deals, performance deals, tv contracts, Fox Big Noon, Congress, athlete negotiations, Big Ten, SEC, business of college sports, Chimdi Chekwa, Bryant Browning, Jim Cavale

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34 min
May 13, 2025Changing the Game: Primetime Viewership, Departure of Jim Knowles, and Future of NIL
In this episode, hosts Bryant Browning and Chimdi Chekwa discuss various topics surrounding Ohio State football, spanning from the upcoming matchup against Texas and the implications of game scheduling to the departure of Jim Knowles.
The duo also explores how NIL is reshaping the future of college football governance, and why game day atmospheres still matter more than ever. Tune in as they pull back the curtain on the behind-the-scenes pressures faced by coaches and players in today’s high-stakes landscape.
Takeaways
Chimdi's cousin is a promising young athlete with speed.

Ohio State's first game against Texas is highly anticipated.

Fans prefer night games for a better atmosphere.

Jim Knowles left Ohio State under pressure for a new opportunity.

Negotiating contracts during playoffs is challenging.

The need for governance in college football is critical.

NIL has drastically changed the college football landscape.

Players should have a say in governance decisions.

The transfer portal complicates team dynamics.

The future of college football playoffs is uncertain.
Chapters
00:00 Family and Future Stars
01:50 Ohio State vs Texas: Game Day Expectations
10:26 Jim Knowles: Pressure and Career Moves
19:41 The Future of College Football Governance
Sound Bites
"Speed kills, man."
"Don't blow up our season."
"Show me that you love me."
Keywords
Ohio State, Texas, college football, Jim Knowles, NIL, Big Ten, game day, governance, Ryan Day, Big Noon Kickoff, primetime, transfer portal, Kyle McCord, college football playoffs, College Game Day, Fox, Fox Sports, SEC, NCAA

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29 min
May 06, 2025Inside the Offseason: NIL Revenue, Transfer Portal, and Chaos with TTUN
In this episode of Bleav in Buckeyes, hosts Bryant Browning and Chimdi Chekwa dive deep into the heart of the offseason, tackling the ever-shifting college football landscape. From the impact of NIL deals and the wild world of the transfer portal to evolving recruitment strategies and the hot topic of revenue sharing, they break down how these changes could reshape team dynamics and competitiveness. The duo also explores the growing role of contractual obligations for players—and, of course, they don’t hold back when it comes to the latest controversies surrounding Michigan football. It’s an unfiltered, insightful conversation every Buckeye fan won’t want to miss.
Takeaways
Chimdi feels almost back to his playing form after years of rehab.

NIL budgets are skyrocketing, with Texas leading at $40 million.

The transfer portal allows teams to acquire proven players quickly.

Penn State struggles to produce star receivers despite strong recruiting.

The transfer portal is a significant equalizer in college football.

Michigan's self-imposed suspensions raise questions about accountability.

Recruitment strategies are crucial for maintaining team competitiveness.

Ohio State's consistent investment keeps them at the top of college football.

Contractual buyouts for players could impact recruitment decisions.

The landscape of college football is rapidly changing with NIL and transfer dynamics.
Chapters
00:00 Offseason Reflections and Personal Updates
01:41 NIL and Transfer Portal Dynamics
06:31 Team Strategies and Recruitment Trends
09:49 NIL Impact on College Football
13:23 Transfer Portal Controversies
21:36 Michigan's Ongoing Scandals and Suspensions
Keywords
NIL, college football, transfer portal, recruitment, team building, revenue share, player contracts, Michigan football, Ohio State, competitive landscape, Ryan Day, Sherrone Moore, capitalism, transfer portal, Buckeyes, Big Ten Football, Akransas, Madden Iamaleava, Chimdi Chekwa, Bryant Browning, Bleav In Buckeyes, Buckeye Football, off-season, Michigan, TTUN

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26 min
April 29, 20252025 NFL Draft: Buckeye Recap
The Bleav in Buckeyes hosts, Bryant Browning and Chimdi Chekwa, delve into the recent 2025 NFL Draft, shining a spotlight on Ohio State players. They analyze the success of Buckeyes in the first and second rounds, the implications of their selections, and the overall impact of the draft on the team's future. The dialogue also meanders through the tales of undrafted players, the latest transfer news, and the shifting strategies in the art of evaluating quarterbacks in today’s dynamic NFL landscape.
Takeaways
Chimdi enjoyed the draft more than expected due to Ohio State's presence.

Ohio State had a strong showing with four first-round picks.

Donovan Jackson's versatility helped him secure a first-round spot.

Emeka Egbuka is a valuable asset for any quarterback.

JT's second-round selection reflects his talent despite earlier doubts.

Judkins and Henderson both benefitted from sharing carries at Ohio State.

Jack Sawyer's fit with the Steelers is promising for his career.

Undrafted players still have opportunities in the NFL.

The importance of the senior bowl in evaluating talent is crucial.

Money plays a significant role in player transfers in college football.
Chapters
00:00 Draft Day Excitement
01:14 Ohio State's First Round Success
03:19 Key Players and Their Draft Impact
07:50 Second Round Picks and Their Potential
11:04 Late Round Picks and Team Fit
16:03 Quarterback Draft Dynamics
20:40 Evaluating Quarterback Prospects
27:06 NCAA Transfer Portal Trends
Keywords
NFL Draft, Ohio State, Buckeyes, Chimdi Chekwa, Bryant Browning, college football, player analysis, draft strategy, NFL prospects, football commentary, Ryan Day, Will Howard, Quinn Ewers, Emeka Egbuka, TreVeyon Henderson, Quinshon Judkins, Tyleik Williams, Denzel Burke, Josh Simmons, Ty Hamilton, Jt Tuimoloau, Jack Sawyer, Cody Simon, Lathan Ransom, Jordan Hancock, Donovan Jackson, Shedeur Sanders, 2025 Draft, Cleveland Browns, Pittsburgh Steelers, quarterbacks, transfer portal, defensive tackle, Texas, Senior Bowl, Pro Day, NFL Combine

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30 min
April 22, 2025Filling the Gap on the Defensive Line| 2025 Draft Prospects
In this episode of Bleav in Buckeyes, hosts Bryant Browning and Chimdi Chekwa discuss the excitement surrounding the NFL Draft, focusing on Ohio State's prospects and the potential for breaking draft records. They navigate the apprehensions surrounding the defensive line and the transformative influence of the transfer portal on team dynamics. The conversation highlights the importance of building a strong team culture and contrasts the coaching approaches of Ohio State and other programs. The episode wraps up with quick hits on various college football topics.
Takeaways
It's an exciting week with the NFL Draft approaching.

Ohio State has a strong group of draft prospects this year.

The Buckeyes could potentially break the draft record for players selected.

Concerns exist about the defensive line's performance and depth.

The transfer portal is a critical factor in team building.

Maintaining a strong team culture is essential for success.

Coaching approaches can significantly impact player development.

Opportunities for young players must be created and recognized.

The contrast between Ohio State's culture and others is notable.
Quick hits on various college football topics wrap up the discussion.
Chapters
00:00 Draft Week Excitement
02:50 Ohio State's Draft Prospects
06:07 Defensive Line Concerns
09:20 Transfer Portal Dynamics
18:02 Building a Winning Culture
19:53 Contrasting College Football Cultures
29:50 Quick Hits and Wrap-Up
Keywords
NFL Draft, Ohio State, college football, transfer portal, player development, coaching, defensive line, recruiting, team culture, Buckeyes, Ryan Day, Colorado, Deion Sanders, Jordon Seaton, NIL, Matt Patricia, Matt Guerrieri, defense, Bryant Browning, Chimdi Chekwa, Bet Online, scholarship players, commitments, walk-ons, coaching

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31 min

About Bleav in Buckeyes

From the publisher's feed

Bleav in Buckeyes is your go-to Ohio State podcast for everything surrounding Buckeyes football, basketball, and the biggest storylines in Columbus. Hosted by former Ohio State football players Bryant Browning and Chimdi Chekwa, the show brings insider perspective, real locker room insight, and expert analysis you won’t find anywhere else.