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COLUMBUS ITALIAN FESTIVAL Ro o ts in Ita l y.

H ear t s i n C ol umbus .

OCTOBER 9, 10, 11 2026 ON THE STEPS OF SAINT JOHN THE BAPTIST CHURCH IN ITALIAN VILLAGE

ROMA ETERNA All Roads Lead to Rome

For Festival Hours and to Purchase Tickets Online

FREE Parking and Shuttle from Columbus State Parking Garage 534 E Long St.

www.columbusitalianfestival.com

The Big Table is a great way to build connections and move forward with positive solutions.” –2025 participant

You belong at The Big Table® on Tuesday, September 29! Join thousands of people across central Ohio for a community-wide day of conversation designed to strengthen connection and civic engagement. Everyone is welcome and there is no cost to participate.

columbusfoundation.org

THINKING ABOUT YOUR NEXT MOVE?

COME SEE WHAT’S NEW IN WORTHINGTON.

Come experience it for yourself! Located in Worthington along Campus View Blvd., The Retreat at Crosswoods offers one and two-bedroom apartment homes with select floor plan styles including a den. Whether you’re unwinding at the pool, playing a friendly game of Pickleball, or hosting friends in the open-concept kitchen, our community is uniquely tailored to suit a wide range of lifestyles. Schedule a tour today—and take advantage of our best offer yet: Three months free when you sign a lease for 18 months. www.livewithchampion.com

CONTENTS C O V E R PA C K A G E THE BUCKEYE 100

38 18 28 72 10

(614) MAGAZINE SEPTEMBER 2026

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The Players, People, and Moments that Define Buckeye Football

2026 SEASON PREVIEW

WITHOUT LIMITS

THE NEXT SLICE

DOG DAYS

FAN FARE

FALL ARTS GUIDE

AUTUMN IN APPALACHIA

STRANGE AND SWEET

ON THE COVER: Design by Bitsy Voce Photos courtesy of Ohio State Athletics

THE ARTS ARE ALWAYS HAPPENING IN COLUMBUS! Find your next arts experience at

ColumbusMakesArt.com/Events ArtMakesCbus ColumbusMakesArt.com is a project of:

Background image: Harmony Project Photographer: Toi Tucker Photography Design: Formation Studio

Opening Volley PUBLISHER Wayne T. Lewis CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Lindsay Press EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Jack McLaughlin

J AC K M C L AU G H L I N Editor-In-Chief

Faith in Football Moving to Columbus when you’re not a born Buckeyes football fan feels like stepping inside a temple dedicated to a religion you do not follow on the holiest day of the year. I should know, because this was me almost a decade ago. I’d been to plenty of NFL games, and more Big Ten football games than I kept track of (after attending the University of Wisconsin). I don’t think one type of fan inherently cares more or cheers harder, and I always stand by the fact that Madison is a football town. But Columbus is different. Columbus is a football culture. What does that mean? It’s hard to explain, but it’s like—refer to the lede— explaining God. It’s everywhere and nowhere. All-powerful, yet elusive. I can’t definitively put my finger on it, but I can tell you my daughter owned multiple Buckeyes onesies before she was even born, and that my mother-in-law—who is the nicest woman in the world—texted me to trash-talk the Badgers less than five minutes after UW dropped a heartbreaking loss to OSU in the Big Ten Championship game. This extends into everything. Clothes, cars, even food. Without trying to, I’ve accrued Buckeyes socks, shirts, hats, and even spatulas. There’s a pervasiveness, a completeness, to Ohio State fandom that I’m able to fully appreciate coming in as an outsider. There are probably a number of reasons for this, but the one I can most comfortably put my finger on is clear: Greatness. The Wisconsin Badgers have a respectable football history, but if they’re in contention for the College Football Playoff, it’s a year to celebrate. For Ohio State, greatness is expected. Simply put, there’s a different energy on game day when you’re the best (often literally) there is. One of the things I’ve learned growing up in a city not named Columbus is the fact that everyone is gunning for number 1. The teams who aren’t at the top hate those who are. It’s human nature. It also seems to be Midwestern nature to act modestly. To shy away from your own successes, in order to assure no one’s feelings are hurt. But you know what? This year, we’re not overcomplicating anything. We’re not getting too cute. We’re not shying away from the fact that Columbus is home to one of the greatest football programs of all time. Call it a villain arc or claim the lion doesn’t concern itself with the opinions of the gazelle. It doesn’t matter. We just hope you’re ready to celebrate this too. In the name of Woody Hayes, Chic Harley, and Archie Griffin. Amen. Special thanks to Dave Biddle of Bucknuts and Ohio State Athletics for their help in the creation of this issue.

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ASSOCIATE EDITORS Maggie Valentine Mary McCarthy CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Tommy Feisel, Steven Rankins CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Dave Biddle, Jackson Hall, Jack McLaughlin, Jordan Abbruzzese, Kristen Paige, Laura Hennigan, Laura Jones, John Clark, Maggie Valentine CONTRIBUTING DESIGNERS Brooke Sheridan, Brooke Stanley, Julie Friedman CREATIVE DIRECTOR Andrew Thomas CREATIVE DESIGNER Abby Nocera MARKETING MANAGER Emma Mortellaro MARKETING ASSISTANT Gillian Dunahoe ADVERTISING DIRECTOR Meggin Weimerskirch SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Mindy Wilhite Anna Gerhard Meghan Chapman ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE Elliot Harpham

Questions about Questions about advertising? advertising? Scan here! Scan here!

Created by Created by

(614) Magazine 458 E Main St., Columbus, OH 43215 Office: (614) 488-4400 | Fax: (614) 488-4402 Email submissions to: editor@614now.com www.614now.com ©Copyright 2026 by Lewis & Clark Media LLC. Reproduction of any content, in whole or in part, without written consent of publisher is strictly prohibited. 614 (614)Magazine Magazineis is notresponsible not responsible for for return return of unsolicited of unsolicited materials, materials, manuscripts, manuscripts, or photographs. or photographs. "614 (614) Magazine" Magazineis ais registered a registeredTrademark Trademarkof ofLewis Lewis& Clark & ClarkMedia, Media,LLCLLC

COLDEST BEER IN TOWN!

YOUR NEW FAVORITE PATIO 614. 488. 0110

3503 TRABUE RD, CBUS, 43204

w w w . j o h n n i e s t a v e r n 6 1 4 . c o m

� S TA F F P I C K S In honor of football season kicking off, we asked staff to dish out their favorite tailgate eats. Here’s what they said:

Fried foods! Potato skins, mozzarella sticks, I’m there. P.S. Can we agree Tostitos Scoops are the only acceptable dip chip?

ON the WEB Do you check your news and entertainment updates on 614now.com? You should. Every day we’re posting Columbus’ top news, entertainment, and sports stories from throughout Central Ohio. Check out all the Columbus news online, including the new ones below at 614now.com and subscribe to our daily email!

— Andrew Thomas, Creative Director

Pizza & wings & draft beer - repeat. — Meggin Weimerskirch, Advertising Director

Buffalo chicken dip! Nom nom nom — Anna Gerhard, Senior Account Executive

Sicilia’s pizza is the best! Especially if your watching the game at Out-R-Inn! — Abby Nocera, Creative Designer

HOT TOPICS, NEWS

‘First of its kind’ penny farthing bike race coming to Ohio A High Wheel Bicycle race will be taking place for the first time in Downtown Plain City, on September 10. An estimated 20 comical penny farthing riders, known for their large front wheel and small back wheel, will compete to complete as many 0.9-mile laps as possible in 1 hour.

Skyline Dip! As a Cincinnati native it’s basically required — Gillian Dunahoe, Marketing Assistant

Lil smokies fresh out the crockpot! — Maggie Valentine, Associate Editor

The Texan in me will never turn down a homemade pimento cheese dip. — Meghan Chapman, Senior Account Executive

Buckeye donuts, hot ham and cheese sliders, and Tommy’s pizza - square cut is the truth. — Elliot Harpham, Account Executive

Loaded baked potato dip with kettle chips for dipping (my own recipe) — Mary McCarthy, Associate Editor

FOOD & DRINK, OPENINGS

This up-and-coming speciality cinnamon roll concept has been selling out in under 10 minutes A concept born after owner, James Adgate, tasted “the worst cinnamon roll” in his life, The Roll Model Bakehouse has taken over Columbus by storm. The mirco-bakery has been whipping up monthly specialty cinnamon rolls that sell out in minutes.

Correction Note: In the August 2026 issue, Caroline Farkas’ last name was incorrectly spelled.

2025 O S U F O O T B A L L S C H E D U L E SEPT

05 SEPT

12 SEPT

19 SEPT

26 OCT

03 OCT

10 OCT

17 OCT

31 NOV

07 NOV

14 NOV

21 NOV

vs. Ball State Columbus, Ohio

@ Texas Austin, Texas

vs. Kent State Columbus, Ohio

vs. Illinois Columbus, Ohio

@ Iowa Iowa City, Iowa

vs. Maryland Columbus, Ohio

@ Indiana Bloomington, Indiana

@ USC Los Angeles, California

vs. Oregon Columbus, Ohio

vs. Northwestern Columbus, Ohio

@ Nebraska Lincoln, Nebraska

vs. Michigan Columbus, Ohio

12:30 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

12 p.m.

TBA

TBA 614NOW.COM

SEPTEMBER 2026

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← Quarterback Julian Sayin is poised for a big season in 2026. Photo courtesy of Bucknuts

2026 SEASON PREVIEW A quick-hitting roundup of Buckeyes football in 2026, from the people who know it best By Dave Biddle, editor of Bucknuts

hio State opens the 2026 college football season as the No. 1 team in the nation, despite replacing 11 NFL draft picks, including four first-rounders. Ryan Day is entering his eighth season as the Buckeyes’ head coach, and for just the second time during his tenure in Columbus, his starting quarterback is returning. Thirdyear QB Julian Sayin was a Heisman Trophy finalist in 2025 when he threw for 3,610 yards (school-record 77 completion percentage) with 32 touchdowns and eight interceptions. Ohio State also boasts perhaps the best overall player in college football this season in third-year wide receiver Jeremiah Smith. The Miami, Florida native has amassed 163 receptions for 2,558 yards (15.7 yards per catch) and 27 receiving touchdowns during his first two collegiate seasons. He also has two career rushing TDs on his ledger, and barring injury, will break every meaningful career receiving record for Ohio State this fall. The Buckeyes’ offensive line was overwhelmed in the final two games of the 2025 season by Indiana and Miami. However, Ohio State returns a lot of talented experience on its offensive front this season, and this is a group that could surprise some folks. Third-year player Ian Moore is expected to take over at left tackle, with fourth-year stalwart Austin

Siereveld moving to right guard. Also expected to start on the offensive line are left guard Luke Montgomery, center Carson Hinzman, and right tackle Phillip Daniels. Defensively, Ohio State is replacing eight starters after ranking No. 1 in the country in total defense. Sound familiar? It should. The Buckeyes also lost eight defensive starters off their 2024 national championship team, only to reload in 2025 and once again field the nation’s top defense. Ohio State retained defensive coordinator Matt Patricia, who is the highest-paid assistant coach in the country at $3.75 million. And if you ask anyone within the football program at OSU, they will tell you he is worth every penny. While it lacks star power, Ohio State’s 17-player transfer class filled a lot of holes, particularly on the defensive side of the ball. Among the defensive transfers expected to make an immediate impact are DTs James Smith and John Walker, DE Qua Russaw, LB Christian Alliegro, and DBs Earl Little Jr., Terry Moore, and Dominick Kelly. Patricia’s defense also returns key players from last year such as fifth-year defensive end Kenyatta Jackson Jr., defensive tackle Will Smith Jr., linebacker Payton Pierce, cornerbacks Jermaine Mathews Jr. and Devin Sanchez, plus safety Jaylen McClain.

From ‘Will you?’ to ‘Wow.’ Most people looking for engagement rings, wedding bands, and gifts walk into our Worthington showroom not knowing where to start. At our family-owned store, no one expects you to. We show you the differences between natural and lab-created diamonds, round brilliant and cushion cuts, diamond and sapphire, then let you decide. Low pressure. Lots of answers. No rush. Over 1,500 styles in the case, and we can source or create almost anything you want.

Why Columbus Couples Trust Worthington Jewelers Family-owned by Bob and Theresa Capace since 2000. Thirteen consecutive years of The Knot Best of Weddings, including Hall of Fame. Over 2,000 five-star reviews on Google, The Knot, WeddingWire, Facebook, and more.

Bob and Theresa Capace opened their store on High Street with a simple mission: treat every customer like family, and take the anxiety out of one of life’s biggest purchases. Thousands of Central Ohio couples have started here since. Bring your kids. Bring your dog. Bring your friends. We’ll have fun.

Your Engagement Ring Is Just the Beginning. Design your ring using our online ring builder at worthingtonjewelers.com or stop in and we will start it together. Then let us help you find the right wedding rings, anniversary bands, fine fashion jewelry, estate pieces, and upgrades when the time comes. Thousands of Central Ohio couples started here and have never gone anywhere else. Worthington Jewelers | Where Columbus Gets Engaged™ 692 High St., Worthington | (614) 430-8800 | worthingtonjewelers.com

↑ From left, Prototype’s director of operations, Alyssa Moody; founder, Joseph Wisne; director of technology, Chris Cortese; director of creative activation, Arianny Damian, project manager, Natalie Pettit; and VP of creative technology at Roto, Nick Braun

WITHOUT

LIMITS By Jordan Abbruzzese | Photos by Tommy Feisel | Story Design by Julie Friedman

Combining digital connection, in-person events, and immersive installations is Prototype—the ever-evolving experimental space taking Columbus by storm

lthough it held its grand opening in November 2025, Prototype: The Experiential Museum is never truly finished—and that’s by design. The museum is a playground of ongoing experimentation that blends social interactions, digital communities, art, and science. At the center of the team sits Joseph Wisne, Prototype founder and chief creative officer, Arianny Damian, the director of creative activation, and Natalie Pettit, project manager. “The important concept behind all of our work is that it’s collaborative by nature,” said Wisne. “Think of a film, video game, or high-end cuisine. There are different roles people play to make things happen. No exhibit, attraction, or immersive art installation happens from just one person.” Prototype is a part of the Roto Group, an experience, design, and production firm that serves close to 300 museums across North America. Through the Roto Group and Prototype, bespoke museum experiences are developed and explored. At Prototype, these ideas are launched, open to public feedback via daily museum guests, refined, and later built for museums, aquariums, and other cultural attractions. At the heart of the installations and how they are utilized by the community is Prototype’s creative in-person event director, Arianny Damian. In her day-to-day life, Damian plans and executes programmatic elements from museum raves to wine tastings. Her role explores how a museum can physically fill the space, and how they talk about the events digitally in the realm of social media. “One of the things we decided to experiment with is redefining what content creation is for a museum,” explained Wisne. “It’s a blending of actual experiences in the museum with the digital content expression of that event through social media and content channels for one effort. Many museums have these as separate functions, but we are bringing those things together and having conversations in the digital space. Arianny is an expert at that.” For Juneteenth, Damian combined social listening, digital participation, and a live multimedia experience to honor The Black Auntie. For the event, Prototype partnered with local Columbus DJ Sonicc Blush (Taylor Haney) to celebrate and explore how Black aunties have taken on the role of historians in the Black community. Before the event, Prototype asked followers to submit the name of their Black aunties online. During the event, as Sonicc Blush played music, guests gathered in Prototype’s theater, delighted as the pre-submitted names of the Black aunties were revealed one by one on the large screen. →

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The Savannah Blind exhibit allows visitors to control digital weather patterns, influencing the behavior of virtual elephants

← Air Table by Daniel Wurtzel

“There was an element of remembrance,” reflected Damian. “The event ended with an immersive movie, where you are a person sitting in a salon chair while the movie showed different hot spots, salons, houses, and restaurants, called Keesha’s Place … We built a CGI back porch scene that became the dance party floor.” During normal daily operations, museum guests can stroll through immersive installations, where the museum team welcomes feedback and guest interaction. Early findings since the museum’s opening have led to partnerships at museums like Cox Science Center and Aquarium in West Palm Beach, Florida. Together, Prototype and the science center are installing a digital immersive ocean that features life-sized creatures. “The idea is to do it with Unreal Engine, a video game engine that allows the whales to swim in real time,” said Wisne. “The whale can see you and it stops, looks you up and down, then swims away again.” Prototype is actively collaborating with the Northern Virginia Science Center to create an installation that explores flocking behavior with birds and schools of fish. Called Flock School, the exhibit allows visitors to control a digital flock of birds, exploring how flocking behaviors occur throughout the natural world across multiple species. The exhibit also demonstrates how Roto creates experiences that will live long-term at other museums, but will be shown and refined at Prototype.

However, Prototype’s body of work expands beyond science museums, working with art and cultural attractions all over North America on multi-sensory exhibits and events. “We are a physical place, and I think it’s really important to know that Columbus people are investing back into the community and there is a place for adults to play, explore, and interact in ways they can’t do on their phone or at work,” added Pettit. At Prototype, the team wants adults to challenge their preconceived notions and leave their assumptions at the door. Housed in a former historic warehouse within Columbus’ Scioto Audubon Metro Park, Prototype is a home for worldclass artists and collaborators to push the boundaries of what museums can do. The spirit of Prototype is its partnership with local and national museums, not competition. “Everyone wants to be innovative and they should be,” concluded Wisne. “But nonprofits can’t afford to take a lot of risk. As we have grown, Roto could build its own experimental museum to put together our best ideas and latest technologies, and help other museums learn from our experience. This was built to be a service to the museum community.” ♦

Prototype is located at 540 Maier Pl., within the Scioto Audubon Metro Park. Get tickets in advance at prototype.org.

Clintonville • Grandview • Easton • Powell

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After 70 years, Josie’s Original Pizza is bringing its classic, Columbus-style pies to a new neighborhood

THE NEXT

SLICE

By Kristen Paige Photos by Tommy Fesiel Story Design by Brooke Stanley

he Original Josie’s Pizza is a classic. It’s the kind of place that your favorite aunt or uncle talks about visiting in their youth. Heck, it’s quite possible they did, since The Original Josie’s Pizza has been around since 1959. It’s your favorite pizza joint’s favorite pizza joint. They’ve been slinging dough for over 65 years, and it’s looking like they’re in it for another 65 or so with their new location at 1675 Holt Road. “It’s done very well for 67 years. We want to make sure this place does just as well for just as long,” said fourth-generation owner Austin Catalfina. The story of The Original Josie’s Pizza really started back in 1920, when Grandpa Placid, or better known as “Pop Kelly, immigrated to the United States from Southern Italy. His path led him from Ellis Island to Columbus, and by 1959, he opened The Original Josie’s Pizza—located on West Broad Street in Franklinton—named after his wife, Josephine. “And then they also had a side place next door, which eventually became Kelly’s Bar,” Catalfina explained. “He ran an Irish bar and an Italian pizza shop. He knew his demographic very well back then.” →

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The Original Josie’s Pizza is not to be confused with Josie’s Pizza Hilltop, also located on West Broad but completely separate from the original concept. The Hilltop location split from Josie’s more than 30 years ago. While they may share the same name, The Original Josie’s is building off generations of family history and recipes, ensuring they all come with the expansion, too. The Original Josie’s Pizza is no longer located in its first home, as the eatery moved just several hundred feet down West Broad Street in 2021, but the family continues the legacy on the West Side at their “old shop,” and at the newest location on Holt Road. “That's the biggest part about us—we're still familyrun and operated,” said Catalfina. The new place highlights the multi-generational business with enlarged immigration documents displayed on the walls. Even the menus share the family history with images of Josephine and Kelly as newlyweds. “It's a work-in-progress build, obviously, because we want to get it very homey and feeling like our old shop,” Catalfina said. The old shop, which is at 894 W. Broad Street in Franklinton, has a classic historic charm with exposed brick, wooden signs, and team signs for the Buckeyes, Bengals, and Browns, among others. “We’ve got our oddball few that we just have in the corner that we don't really talk about, but we’ve got them because people love them. That's one thing we want to bring in here—that homey feel like the other shop, just in a different way,” explained Catalfina. Something that won’t be different from location to location, however, is the pizza. The new place may look different, but the pizza is the same Columbus-style pie that locals love and longtime Josie’s Pizza patrons can attest to. → Josie’s Supreme Pizza with Jalapeño Poppers →

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← Josie’s Original Pizza also offers a wide variety of speciality pies

Where Columbus

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“The first two weeks were testing products and making sure the ovens cook right. Now I have customers come in and say, ‘This is great. This is a Josie's Pizza,’” said Catalfina. Pepperoni pizza lovers will find their version intriguing. Instead of throwing the rounds on top of the cheese, they like to keep them underneath. The Catalfinas opt for this method to keep the pepperonis from sliding off the pizza. Another reason is the taste. Keeping the pepperoni directly above the sauce allows their flavor to better mix with the sauce. That’s not to say the flavor of pepperonis defines the Original Josie’s, because as Catalfina assures, “A cheese pizza is a damn good pizza if you make it right.” If you want a bit more, try the Chef’s Special. As they say at Josie’s, “If you know the chef, then you know the special”—and it’s certainly special. It’s a pepperoni pizza with the signature placement beneath the cheese, but also on top.

'Damn good' cheese pizza from Josie's Pizza ↓

A CHEESE PIZZA IS A DAMN GOOD PIZZA IF YOU MAKE IT

RIGHT.

↑ Josie’s menu also includes wings, sandwiches, salads, and more

It’s charms like this that make The Original Josie’s Pizza a Columbus classic. And you know they’re here to stay, too, because their coupons don’t expire. Collect ten, and you get a free large one-topping pizza. They’re eager to reward customer loyalty, and another way of doing so is making sure everything is top quality—even the pizza boxes. “That was something that was embedded in our head from my grandfather, my grandmother, and all—to make good things. Don't cheap out. Make good things because the people appreciate it,” Catalfina said. These small gestures from Kelly and Josephine are reminders of their legacy that continues to make The Original Josie’s Pizza memorable. Catalfina still hears their words of advice, recalls their trips to get ice cream, but most of all, he remembers the times at the pizza shop with his family, and seeing a line of pizza sauce across his loved ones’ aprons. “We’ve only known pizza our whole life,” Catalfina mused. “We’ve got a passion for it. And the biggest part is to keep your passion because of these special moments.” ♦

Try a taste of tradition today at The Original Josie's Pizza. Visit their new location at 1675 Holt Rd.

TASTE HOW THE OTHER HALF LIVES.

Visit TheDanhattan.com to find a purveyor.

↑ Owner Spencer Campbell and his gentle giant, Atlas, an English Mastiff

By Jordan Abbruzzese Photos by Tommy Feisel Story Design by Brooke Stanley

The owner of Shakers Public House has launched a colorful new spinoff that lets wings—and dogs— take center stage

alking into The Dapper Dog Tavern, you’re suddenly in the middle of a car chase. A mural from Justin Withrow of Lookout Supply immediately immerses patrons in a colorful depiction of a Capone-era police chase, only it swaps people for depictions of his dog, Atlas. From this statement piece to the rest of the new eatery’s themed decor, to the dogs present when you visit, it’s pretty apparent Spencer Campbell loves his pets.

“Being in a historic building, and with my dogs, it all played into it,” said owner Spencer Campbell. “It’s the moonshine and the whole Al Capone story, playing out with my dogs.” As much as Campbell loves his dogs, chicken wings hold a special place in his heart as well. He and his wife Caitlin opened Shakers Public House in 2020, and while Shakers is known for serving up some of the city’s best wings, Dapper Dog doubles down, making them a centerpiece of the new concept, alongside colorful murals and a dog-friendly atmosphere. The Dapper Dog opening in Grove City at 4057 Broadway is a new chapter and a spinoff of the original Shakers—expanding the brand in a city that really loves their dogs. The eatery has taken over the location that was formerly Hop Yard 62, a local watering hole that shuttered in 2025. Campbell saw the opportunity to bring Shakers to this neighborhood, with a twist. “Feedback has been overwhelmingly positive,” said Campbell. “Of course, everyone is worried when something is a staple, and someone my age comes in and changes things, but we had success before this with our other locations … It was refreshing to build on that momentum.” →

Campbell's wings are known across the city from Shakers Public House, and Dapper Dog puts them front and center ↓

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The Dapper Dog Tavern slings cold drinks, beer, and wine, including curated cocktails named for the spirit of the eatery like The Getaway Car or The Bonnie Collide. Guests can kick back and watch a game from a selection of big screens, or enjoy the outdoor patio seating with their pup. Naturally, dogs are welcome. Campbell saw the opportunity to launch an exclusive smoked menu at Dapper Dog, with expanded food offerings and dinner specials. In an effort to refine his smoking skills and bring a high-quality barbecue option to the southwest side of Columbus, Dapper Dog has rolled out new daily plates featuring Smoked Brisket, BBQ Pork Shank, Baby Back Ribs, 16-hour Pulled Pork, and sides of creamy Mac N’ Cheese, all served with their signature barbecue sauce. Out back, Campbell carefully tends to the meats with his onsite smoker. “I started smoking food there slowly, starting with what we know,” explained Campbell. “So putting wings on, pulled pork sandwiches, and brisket. This is a good chance for me to hone in and master the kitchen, and work on my barbecue and smoking.” In the spirit of Atlas, The Dapper Dog Tavern welcomes all furry best friends on its patio section ↓

↑ Campbell is also the owner of Shakers Public House, a Worthington hotspot known for its wings

Opening the tavern doors is just the first step in Campbell’s vision for this new spot, as he works closely with the city on his plans to renovate the second floor, expanding the atmosphere for guests. And while the bar is hopping, both of Campbell’s restaurants are family-friendly and meant to appeal to guests across generations. “Going into Grove City, the only reason it wasn’t built originally as another Shakers was the capacity and lack of a kitchen,” recalled Spencer. “As I was rebuilding, I noticed it is a very dog-loving community. I love dogs too. With Shakers, it came with my bullmastiff logo [inspired by Campbell’s other dog], so what was I going to do with my English Mastiff?” Now with both pups as the star of the show and larger than life across the tavern walls, diners are truly immersed in an intimate, one-of-a-kind experience. “One of the murals is the dog sitting back with a cigar, where he has made it with his career, and the last wall is the ‘I gotcha’ scene with the lineup of mugshots. It’s fun and I love it,” laughed Campbell.

As football season heats up this fall and the weather cools down, Campbell is content to be in a walkable area where everyone is welcome, furry family members included. This new venture feels like an important evolution to the Columbus restaurant owner, as he has worked to build the Shakers brand in Columbus over the past six years. “Dapper Dog is literally in the most active familyfriendly, dog-friendly, downtown atmosphere,” gushed Campbell. “It’s energetic, and with the injection of this new build, I can show that people my age—I’m 40—can come in and do this.” ♦ The Dapper Dog Tavern is open every day from noon until 1 a.m. Follow @dapper_dog_tavern on Instagram formore information on upcoming events and specials.

Slow-smoked 16 Hour Pulled Pork Sandwiches slathered in barbecue sauce ↓

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Columbus’ All American Quarter Horse Congress is the largest equine event in the world; Here’s your guide for this year’s festivities By Maggie Valentine

or four weeks this fall, championship competition, western tradition, and a one-of-a-kind shopping experience make Columbus the center of the Quarter Horse world. The All American Quarter Horse Congress is more than a horse show; it is a fall tradition with a global reach. The event is also a major economic driver for Ohio, generating more than $426 million for the Central Ohio economy each year. Produced by the Ohio Quarter Horse Association, Congress brings elite horses and riders to Columbus while welcoming fans, families, and first-time visitors from across the country. Beyond the arenas, 200 vendors fill more than 20 acres of shopping with something for everyone, from home decor, and jewelry to western apparel and lifestyle brands. General admission is free, and parking is free every Wednesday, making it easy to experience one of Ohio’s signature events. Freestyle Reining and Professional Bull Riding are separately ticketed.

Reining Futurity | Oct. 3 Celeste Center Attendees can witness young equine talent, including many celebrity riders featured on the hit television series Yellowstone, as some of the most promising 3-year-olds compete in their best 5-minute patterns for a chance to win $180,000.

Freestyle Reining | Sept. 26 | 6 p.m.

World-Class Stall Front Decorations

VS Code Red Coliseum

Gilligan Barn

Combining the athleticism and finesse of reining with rhythmic melodies of popular hits, it is no question why Freestyle Reining is one of the most attended events, as the audience watches competitors donning costumes and using props as they guide through precise patterns.

Top trainers and champion horses reside in custom-built stalls that transform into a home away from home. For the entire Congress, owners bring pieces of their home ranches to Columbus, using water elements, landscaping, and interior design to create legendary stall fronts.

FIND YOUR WAY Scan the QR code for the full schedule, event information, and updates. Experience everything The Congress has to offer and plan your visit at at www.quarterhorsecongress.com.

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Shopping Congress Hall, Congress Marketplace Congress guests can channel their inner western while shopping across Congress Hall and Marketplace. Hundreds of artisans and vendors gather across 20 acres offering all things cowboy.

Barrel Racing Sweepstakes | Oct. 3 VS Code Red Coliseum A timed class in which exhibitors and horses run a cloverleaf pattern around three barrels, and with an estimated purse of $85,000 this year, the arena’s energy will be electrifying.

Heroes on Heroes | Oct. 9 | 12:30 p.m. Celeste Center A special Congress event honoring service men and women and the horses who help them heal, including an Honor Guard procession of the American Flag.

Professional Bull Riding | Oct. 24 | 6 p.m. Celeste Center The Congress is once again hosting a PBR Challenger Series event and the stakes are high as the world’s toughest bull riders battle it out for eight seconds against the fiercest bulls in one of the last events before the PBR Challenger Series Championship.

Puppy Alley & Rescue Row | Fri.-Sun. (Weekly) Rhodes Center Guests will have the opportunity to leave the Congress with a new furry best friend at this iconic event. Breeders come with available puppies and adoption groups will have dogs ready to find their newfound families.

FAN FARE

Four of the best tailgate spots to eat, drink, and watch the Buckeyes this season By Jackson Hall Photos by Jack McLaughlin

here are plenty of ways to tailgate before an Ohio State football game, but not everyone has a parking spot, a tent, and a group of friends waiting outside the Shoe. Luckily, several public tailgates around Ohio State’s campus offer an easy way to join the game day festivities without bringing much more than your Buckeye gear. From massive outdoor parties with live music to longstanding campus institutions, here are four public tailgates and pregame spots to know before heading to an Ohio State football game this fall.

O-Zone Tailgate 364 W. Lane Ave Located in the parking lot of Riverwatch Tower, just a short walk from Ohio Stadium, the O-Zone Tailgate is one of the largest public tailgates near the Shoe. Riverwatch Tower says it hosts O-Zone tailgates during all Ohio State home football games. The outdoor party has traditionally featured live music, food, and drink vendors and a large screen showing the game, meaning fans can stick around even after kickoff.

Recent editions of the tailgate have also been affiliated with local sports radio station 97.1 The Fan, broadcasting live, on-site game day coverage. Perhaps most importantly for fans without their own tailgate plans, the event has traditionally been free to enter.

THE

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Participatory Dining Experiences & Team Building Activities Catered Events Cookie Decorating & Cocktail Courses

Varsity Club

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278 W. Lane Ave Few places are as synonymous with Ohio State football Saturdays as Varsity Club. Located on Lane Avenue only steps from Ohio Stadium, the longtime bar and restaurant turns into a sprawling game day party during Buckeye home games. Fans pack its patio and outdoor areas before kickoff, with DJs and live bands adding to the atmosphere. There are plenty of places to watch, too. Varsity Club has TVs throughout the restaurant and patio, while a large screen in its back parking lot has traditionally shown the game for the crowds outside. Varsity Club has been a campus staple since 1959, making it an especially fitting stop for fans looking for an old-school Ohio State game day experience.

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HAMILTON RD

COMING SOON! 5571 N Hamilton Rd, Columbus, OH 43230

HARD RD

3880 Hard Rd, Dublin, OH 43016

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955 W 5th Ave, Columbus, OH 43212

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5857 Karric Square Dr, Dublin, OH 43016

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Photo courtesy of Out-R-Inn ↓

Out-R-Inn 20 E. Frambes Ave A campus classic. Located just off the strip of campus bars on High Street, Out-R-Inn is an Ohio State staple and is ready to party all season long. While steering away from the tailgate atmosphere to a more dive bar scene, the house-turned-bar’s “out or in” layout of this spot gives Buckeye fans the perfect space to cheer on their favorite team. How could you turn away from a packed patio trimmed with TVs, drinks at a price so low you can’t believe, and a pizza window where you can order a greasy slice of Sicilia’s Pizza next door. Alumni and students alike agree that this is one stop that can’t be missed on game day.

Photo courtesy of the O on Lane ↓

The O on Lane 352 W. Lane Ave Another Lane Avenue option sits practically next door to the O-Zone festivities. The O on Lane traces its history back to the former O Patio and Pub, which opened near Ohio State in 1994, and the newer iteration has maintained its connection to Buckeye game days. Its location less than half a mile from Ohio Stadium puts it directly in the middle of the pregame action. Fans have reported live music and a packed outdoor patio on football Saturdays, making it an easy stop before walking to the Shoe. The restaurant also offers pizza, wings, sandwiches, and drinks for anyone looking to fit an actual meal into their tailgating schedule.

By Jack McLaughlin Section Design by Andrew Thomas and Abby Nocera Photos Courtesy of Ohio State Athletics

riffin. Hayes. Harley. Haskins. The list of great Buckeyes is inexhaustible. So how—or why, for that matter—do you go about ranking the 100 best, players, people, and moments in modern Buckeye football? I can’t answer the second part of the question, as it stems from a compulsion deeper than rational thought, but as to “how:” You need a system. Like any attempt to quantify something as complex, dynamic, and personally meaningfully as Ohio State football, any list is going to be reductive, but that’s just part of the territory. When we set out to create The Buckeye 100—to give people a quantifiable set of rankings for modern Buckeyes football—we started with a few rules: • The Buckeye 100 is unveiled backwards, starting at 100. Number 1 is the top spot—the most impactful— on the list. • We’re crazy, but not that crazy. This list only includes modern OSU football, so anything from 1975 or later (essentially starting at the tail-end of the Hayes era) is fair game. We made a few exceptions, but if a player’s OSU career ended after 1975, he’s eligible. • This list ranks the most impactful players, people, and moments. This means—for the most part—players who were at Ohio State for longer generally landed higher on our list. There are exceptions, obviously. • Likewise, if a player made an impact on the field, and then also helped the program as a coach later down the line, those two impacts are compounded. This list is subjective. That should go without saying. Certain stats cited, like sacks, may differ slightly depending on sources. Many of the moments here are particularly subjective, though, since measuring changes to the culture of a fanbase—or the ripples a powerful speech has after the fact—are are impossible to quantify cleanly. Ultimately, The Buckeye 100 is a celebration of all things Ohio State Football, of the moments we’ve shrieked for joy in front of strangers and sobbed into our hands as grown adults over. Wherever you fall on that gradient, and with another football season before us, there’s only one more thing to say: When I say “O-H,” you said “I-O.” →

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A rival head coach, an attack on Brutus, and one of the Buckeyes’ rare 3-time All-Americans headline the first quarter of our list

100. Matt Patricia Defensive Coordinator, 2024-Present

96.“JoePa’s” Bathroom Emergency 2006 Season

While Chip Kelly could also make the list here, Patricia’s defense stole the show last season and is poised to continue dominating for years to come.

The impact of this “emergency” on the Ohio State football program is negligible at best, but its place in Buckeye lore is that of legends. During a 2006 clash against the Nittany Lions, Penn State head coach Joe Paterno was seen running not only mid-game, but mid-play, to the locker room. He returned in the second half wearing a different pair of pants. Did he actually poop himself? The mystery, and the legend, endures.

99. PEPPER JOHNSON

95. Will SMITH

Linebacker, 1982-1985

Edge Rusher, 2000-2003

With 379 tackles, Johnson is sixth in school history behind A.J. Hawk. He led the team in tackles during the 1984 and 1985 seasons, was the team’s defensive MVP in 1984 and 1985, and snagged first team All-American accolades in 1985.

A pass-rushing force during 2002 National Championship season, Smith finished with 22 career sacks, plus Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year and firstteam All-American honors in 2003.

98. SHAWN SPRINGS

94. JON “Big Nut” Peters Buckeyes Superfan

Defensive Back, 1994-1996

Logging 5 interceptions in 1995 and only one the following year as opponents learned their lesson throwing his way, Shawn Springs was a consensus AllAmerican and winner of the Big Ten Player of the Year in 1996. Springs’ 4 pass breakups were instrumental in the Buckeyes 1997 Rose Bowl victory.

97. LeCharles Bentley Guard/Center, 1998-2001

Bentley was the anchor on the offensive line during his 3-year startingrun, and the winner of the Rimington Trophy in 2001.

Photo by Sarah Pfeifer

Also known as John Paul Peters, “Big Nut” is arguably Ohio State’s most famous fan. You may not know the name, but chances are you’ve seen the man—in all his painted face, buckeye necklace-wearing glory. Not only is his impact felt on gameday, but Peters has also raised more than $300,000 for The Big Nut Scholarship Fund since it was established in 2011.

93. Jaxon Smith-Njigba’s Rose Bowl recorD 2021 Season

For some players, 347 yards would represent a decent season’s worth of productivity. Jaxon Smith-Njigba logged this in a single game. A 15-catch performance helped him set the Rose Bowl record for receptions, tie the Rose Bowl receiving touchdowns record (3), and set the FBS bowl game record for receptions. His performance also helped the Buckeyes come away with a 48-45 victory against Utah.

92. Gary MoEller Michigan Head Coach, 1990-1994

A Michigan head coach? On a Buckeyes football list? Since we’re considering impact, Moeller’s 3-1-1 record against OSU from 1990-1994 makes him one of Ohio State’s biggest stumbling blocks of the modern era, despite his short tenure.

91. Mickey Marotti Strength and Conditioning Coach, 2012-Present

Marotti quietly helped the Buckeyes build the strength and endurance needed to compete at the highest level and has served the team for nearly 15 years.

90. TAYLOR DECKER Offensive Tackle, 2012-2015

Decker anchored the Ohio State offensive line during their 2014 National Championship run—the consensus All-American logged 42 straight starts and boasted a 50-4 win record across his career. 614NOW.COM

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89. Evan Spencer’s Trick Play Touchdown PasS

86. Cade stover Tight End, 2019-2023

2014 Season

With the Buckeyes trailing 21-13 in the first round of the 2014 College Football Playoff and just seconds to go before halftime, their high-powered offense executed a trick play for the ages. Cardale Jones handed the ball off to Jalin Marshall, who pitched it to wide receiver Evan Spencer, who threw an absolute strike in a tight window to Michael Thomas in the left corner of the end zone for a score. About the play, Spencer famously told the Big Ten Network: “I thought to myself: I’m throwing this bad boy no matter what.”

An ultra-reliable modern tight end, Stover finished second in program history in receptions (82) and receiving yards for tight ends (1,058)—all after transitioning from linebacker.

88. The Greatest Second Half of All Time

85. Harbaugh’s guarantee

2020 Season

1986 Season

Standout running back Trey Sermon exploded for a school record 331 rushing yards in a single game during the 2020 Big Ten Championship against Northwestern (which the Buckeyes would go on to win) while managing to log 271 yards in the second half alone.

This one still hurts. Current NFL head coach and former Michigan quarterback Jim Harbaugh guaranteed a victory before Ohio State played Michigan in Columbus to wrap up the 1986 regular season. He was right, as the Wolverines defeated the Buckeyes 26-24.

87. Tom Skladany

84. Terrelle Pryor

Punter and Kicker,1973-1976

Quarterback, 2008-2010

Punters are people, too. Tom Skladany, likely the program’s best-ever punter and one of its greatest kickers, was the school’s first specialist to receive a scholarship. He’s one of only 8 Buckeyes to become a 3-time All-American, and he holds the record for the school’s longest field goal to this day, a 59-yarder made in 1975.

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There are rare athletes, and then there is Terrelle Pryor. Logging 6,177 career passing yards and 57 passing touchdowns, Pryor also helped truly usher in the era of dual-threat quarterbacks in Columbus—rushing for 2,164 yards (third all-time for Ohio State quarterbacks) and 17 rushing touchdowns.

83. Rufus the Bobcat Attacks Brutus 2010 Season

Before a 2010 game against Ohio University, Brandon Hanning—the man behind Rufus the Bobcat (OU’s mascot)—attacked Brutus the Buckeye, jumping on his back and hitting him in the head. While it initially seemed to be staged, it wasn’t. Hanning was fired, Brutus wasn’t injured, and the Buckeyes won the game.

82. Chris Olave Wide Receiver, 2018-2021

Holding the all-time record for receiving touchdowns (36) at a school known by many as “Wide Receiver U” speaks for itself.

81. The Double Bird 2013 Season

In the 2013 iteration of The Game, Michigan players roughed up freshman kick returner Dontre Wilson after a first half return. A fight broke out, and right guard Marcus Hall joined in. He was ejected, and famously extended a one-finger greeting on both hands to a packed Big House on his way to the locker room. The Buckeyes went on to win the game.

80. Ahmed PlumMer Defensive Back, 1995-1999

Team MVP in 1999 and a Jim Thorpe Award finalist that same year, Plummer is second all-time in program history with 34 pass breakups, including 17 in the 1998 season alone—which set a single-season record that he still holds (alongside Bradley Roby). 614NOW.COM

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79. BRAXTON MILLER Quarterback, Wide Receiver, 2011-2015

76. Caleb Downs Defensive Back, 2024-2025

The winner of back-to-back Big Ten Offensive Player of the Year awards, the electric Miller threw for nearly 5,300 yards and 52 touchdowns, before moving to wide receiver his final year, where he tallied over 300 yards and 3 touchdown catches.

78. The Headband Game

A transfer from Alabama following his true freshman season, Downs went on to become a true “do-it-all” safety in Columbus. A two-time unanimous All-American in his 2 years with the Buckeyes, Downs won the Jim Thorpe Award, was the Nagurski-Woodson Defensive Player of the Year, and was Ohio State’s Male Athlete of the Year last season.

1987 Season

Before the 1987 season finale against Michigan, head coach Earle Bruce was told he would be fired after the season. In support of their soon-to-be-fired coach, players wore headbands with the name “Earle” emblazoned across them. The Buckeyes won a dramatic contest after falling behind 13-0, and Bruce left the field for the final time—hoisted onto the shoulders of his players.

77. Luke Fickel Nose Guard, 1992-1996 Assistant Coach, 2002-2016

A legendary defensive coordinator, a new look for Brutus, and one of the Buckeye’s best single seasons from a quarterback culminate in the halfway point of The Buckeye 100

75. “Holy Buckeye” 2002 Season

A nose tackle for the Buckeyes in the ‘90s, Fickel went on to lead some of the Buckeyes’ best units as Defensive Coordinator for nearly a decade and stepped in as Interim Head Coach after Tressel’s resignation in 2011. 44

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Facing a 4th and 1 with 1:36 remaining in the game, the Buckeyes trailed 6-3 to Purdue. From the Boilermakers’ 37 yard line, head coach Jim Tressel had more than just a first down conversion in mind—as quarterback Craig Krenzel stepped up and delivered an over-the-shoulder strike to Michael Jenkins for a game-winning score that preserved the Buckeyes’ undefeated season and title aspirations.

74. Cardale Jones Quarterback 2013-2015

Sometimes, the stats don’t tell the story. While Jones did log over 2,000 yards and 13 passing touchdowns, his leadership and poise under pressure when he stepped in as a third-stringer to lead Ohio State to a National Championship in the first-ever College Football Playoff is a remarkable feat.

73. Jim Heacock Defensive Coordinator 2005-2011

A defensive Coordinator steering some of the nation’s best units, Heacock won Broyles Award in 2007. His defenses were some of the most dominant in program history.

72. The Snow Incident 2025 Season

Photo courtesy of FOX Sports ↓

In another lighthearted mascot event—though perhaps carrying more of a statement behind it than the previous—Brutus used a fresh coating of snow to cross out the “M” in Michigan’s end zone in the fourth quarter of a showdown in 2025. He also wrote a Script Ohio, the event went viral, and the Buckeyes won 27-9.

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71. ted ginn, jr. Wide Receiver, 2004-2006

Ginn tallied nearly 2,000 yards and 15 touchdowns as a wide receiver during his time in Columbus. He goes down as the team’s best return specialists to date, logging 6 career punt return touchdowns (a school record) and 2 kickoff return touchdowns (a school record held with multiple others).

70. Joey Galloway

67. Andy Katzenmoyer Linebacker, 1996-1998

Becoming the first Buckeye to win the Butkus Award (and doing so as a sophomore), Katzenmoyer was known for his intensity. He racked up 256 total tackles, 50 total tackles for loss, 18 sacks, and 6 interceptions while at Ohio State.

66. Ryan Shazier Linebacker, 2011-2013

Wide Receiver, 1990-1994

The speedy wide receiver finished his collegiate career with the fourth-most receiving yards and second-most receiving touchdowns. While these records don’t stand today, Galloway was a force in the early ‘90s, during a time when football was a far more run-heavy game.

While Graf served as the school’s first female drum major in 1981, Glowacki was the first female Brutus in 1977. Both paved the way for women’s involvement in previously male-dominated spheres.

A tackling machine, Shazier was exceptional throughout his collegiate career, but is likely best remembered as a player for one of the greatest OSU defensive performances ever. In a 20-tackle outing against Indiana in 2013, he set a school record for solo tackles (16), tied a school record for tackles for loss (5), and added a sack, forced fumble, and pass breakup. Shazier’s legacy goes beyond his career as a Buckeye. His recovery from a traumatic spinal injury in the NFL continues to inspire the football world to this day.

68. Brian Hartline

65. John Cooper

Wide Receiver, 2005-2008 Assisant Coach, 2017-2025

Head Coach, 1988-2000

69. Sandy Glowacki, ShellEy Graf

Cooper racked up 111 total wins across 13 seasons— placing him second all-time behind only Woody Hayes. He also led the Buckeyes to 3 Big Ten Championships and a 1997 Rose Bowl victory.

64. Cornelius GreenE Though his stats don’t hold a candle to the “WR U” he helped establish as a coach, Hartline’s 1,429 and 12 touchdowns across 3 seasons as a player were followed up by a successful coaching tenure, serving as offensive coordinator during Ohio State’s 2024 National Champinoship.

Quarterback, 1972-1975

Ohio State’s first Black starting quarterback, Cornelius Greene totaled 4,000-plus yards and 42 touchdowns. In 1973, he led OSU to an undefeated season, tallied a record of 31-3-1 in his career, and, as a senior, earned Big Ten MVP honors over star teammate Archie Griffin.

63. Mike Nugent Kicker, 2001-2004

The most decorated kicker in program history, Nugent tallied a whopping 356 points from 2001-2004 , making him the top point-scorer in Ohio State football history.

62. Tom Cousineau Linebacker, 1975-1978

Cousineau earns his spot on this list by tallying 569 career tackles (2nd in program history)—211 of which came in a single season, a mark that still stands as the most tackles in a single season for the Buckeyes. He became the first in program history to be a first overall pick in the NFL Draft in 1979.

61. Wendy Goldstein

In 1981, OSU graduate Wendy Goldstein created a Brutus costume that laid the framework for the mascot’s appearance today, ditching older versions for the first full-body option. And millions of Ohio State fans should thank her, because the former options—mostly consisting of a giant buckeye with legs—were sometimes downright scary.

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60. Jaxon Smith-Njigba Wide Receiver, 2020-2022

57. Chris Gamble Defensive Back, Wide Receiver, 2001-2003

Called “Iron Man” for good reason, Gamble started on both offense and defense during the 2002 National Championship season (the first to do so since OSU’s 1963 campaign). Instrumental to winning AND a badass nickname? Yes, please.

56. Marvin Harrison, Jr. Had he played for the Buckeyes as long as Emeka Egbuka, Smith-Njigba would almost certainly be higher on this list. JSN owns the OSU records for single-season receiving yards (1,606 in 2022—nearly 200 more than the runner up) and single-game receiving yards (347).

59. Malcom Jenkins Defensive Back, 2005-2008

Wide Receiver, 2021-2023

Harrison was dominant during his 3 years with the Buckeyes, and his pairing with C.J. Stroud was nothing short of lethal. Harrison recorded more than 2,600 receiving yards and was a Heisman finalist, Biletnikoff Award winner, Big Ten Offensive Player of the Year, and a 2-time unanimous All-American.

55. Eugene Weigel OSU Band Director, 1929-1938

Winner of the Jim Thorpe Award in 2008, the hard-hitting Jenkins did it all for the Buckeyes, tallying 11 interceptions (2 of which were returned for touchdowns), nearly 200 career tackles, and a consensus All-American nod in 2007.

58. Joey Bosa Edge Rusher, 2013-2015

Though not always flashy, Bosa did everything right for the Buckeyes. He may not hold prominent school records or have a single dominant trait, but he stacked the box in tackles for loss and sacks in each of his three seasons, and was an anchor for the 2014 Championship team.

While he’s technically well outside of our 50-year range for this list, his Script Ohio musical drill lives on, and he makes our list anyway. This former band director launched the Script Ohio formation in the 1930s, with trumpet player John Brungart being the first to “dot the I” in 1936.

54. 62-39 win over Michigan 2018 Season

Any win against “The Team Up North” is a big one, but dropping a 60-burger on them—and closing the game with a 3-score lead—especially in a contest where Michigan was ranked 7th in the nation, should warm the heart of any self-respecting Buckeyes fan.

53. mike doss returns 2002 Season

Would the 2002 Buckeyes have been elite without AllAmerican safety Mike Doss (one of only 8 other 3-time All-Americans in OSU history) returning for his senior season instead of entering the NFL Draft? Absolutely. Would they have won the national championship without their defensive captain? That’s another question—and why his return lands at No. 53.

52. Justin Fields Quarterback, 2019-2020

Fields set the world on fire with his 2019 season, where he passed for over 3,200 yards with a staggering 41-3 touchdown/interception ratio, adding 484 rushing yards, and 10 rushing touchdowns. He’s currently third all-time in career passing touchdowns (63) despite only playing two seasons with Ohio State. His high-profile fight for immediate eligibility helped define today’s era of “free agent” college football as well.

51. Pete Johnson Running Back, 1973-1976

While the short yardage back may feel like a vestige of the past to modern football fans, few did it better than Johnson at a time when it was a critical offensive position. He tallied a school record 56 career touchdowns, and his 348 total points stood as the most in school history until Mike Nugent later surpassed that number in the early 2000s, although he still holds the second-place spot today.

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The program’s worst loss of all time, its best athletic director ever, and a missing shoe lead us up to this list’s home stretch

50. Marcus Marek

47. National Championship Loss to Alabama

Linebacker, 1979-1982

2020 Season

While there are plenty of other contenders for this spot, the 52-24 loss in the National Championship game at the end of the 2020 season may have been the worst single-game defeat in program history. Could it also have lit a fire under head coach Ryan Day en route to his first title in 2024? We’ll never know for sure.

At a school that has produced some of the best linebackers, the Buckeyes’ all-time leading tackler (572) can’t be overlooked. Marek also holds the record for the school’s most assisted tackles with 316.

46. Art Schlichter Quarterback, 1978-1981

49. Earle Bruce Head Coach, 1979-1987

Despite other coaches sneaking in above Bruce, the impact of the man who kept Ohio State football relevant after Woody Hayes’ departure shouldn’t be undersold. Bruce held a record of 81-26-1 and led Ohio State to 4 Big Ten titles in 8 seasons.

48. Mike Doss

45. Dan WilkInson

Wide Receiver, 1999-2002

Defensive Tackle, 1991-1993

One of the Buckeyes’ few 3-time All-Americans, Mike Doss anchored the defensive backfield. Doss was named Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year in 2002 and helped lead the team to a 14-0 record—and its first National Championship in over 30 years

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Schlichter set dozens of records during his time at Ohio State, including all-time career passing yards (7,457)—now third in program history, remarkable for a quarterback who played 45 years ago. He also finished top 5 in Heisman voting two separate times.

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Known as “Big Daddy” for a reason, he racked up 23.5 tackles for loss over just 2 years en route to becoming the number one overall pick in the 1994 NFL Draft. Though this list isn’t focused on NFL achievements, becoming a first overall pick as a defensive tackle deserves a seat at The Buckeye 100 table.

44. Emeka Egbuka Wide Receiver, 2021-2024

While his running mate JSN gets more of the spotlight in the pros, Egbuka stands as OSU’s all-time receptions leader (205) and second most in career receiving yards (2,868).

YOUR NEW GAMEDAY HANGOUT

43. One Shoe, 5 Rushing Touchdowns 1984 Season

Considered one of the single greatest individual Buckeye performances of all time, running back Keith Byars led an improbable comeback win against Illinois with a fivetouchdown performance in which he scored a touchdown wearing only one shoe.

42. John Frank Tight End, 1980-1983

Frank currently holds the alltime record for career receiving yards among tight ends with 1,481. Not bad for a guy who last suited up for the Scarlet and Gray more than 40 years ago.

41. Beanie Wells Running Back, 2006-2008

Wells set the school rushing record at the time and now sits at fourth with 3,382 career rushing yards, adding 30 touchdowns along the way.

Big screens, 10 food vendors drink specials, fun for everyone S C A N Q R C O D E T O S E E G A M E D A Y D E TA I L S

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40. ANTOINE WINFIELD Sr. Defensive Back, 1995-1998

36. Ryan day Head Coach, 2019-Present

The first Buckeye cornerback to log 200 solo tackles and the first Buckeye to lead the team in tackles at his position, Antoine Winfield’s career is full of robust achievements— he also became the first Buckeye to win the Jim Thorpe Award in 1998.

39. Michael Jenkins Wide Receiver, 2000-2003

Nearly 25 years after leaving OSU, Jenkins holds the program record for career receiving yards with 2,898 and ranks sixth in program history with 165 receptions. He was the third wide receiver ever to be named team MVP (when he earned the accolade in 2003).

Though ranking him above Earle Bruce may be a controversial move, Day holds the highest win percentage of any active FBS coach (.872), leading the Buckeyes to a title and several conference championships while coaching dozens of first-team All-Americans.

35. Jeremiah Smith 2024-Present

38. Gene Smith Athletic Director, 2005-2024

While the man behind the scenes typically gets a mere fraction of the exposure that star players and coaches receive, Gene Smith’s impact on Ohio State football cannot be overstated. Likely the school’s greatest athletic director, Smith steered the program to 5 National Championship appearances and 2 titles.

Arguably the face of college football going into this season, Smith’s dominance in his first 2 years with the Buckeyes leaves him on pace to overtake Michael Jenkins for the school’s all-time receiving yards record record in the first half of the 2026 season. 27 touchdowns and more than 2,500 yards in his first two seasons (the most by any Big Ten player in that span) make him every defensive back’s nightmare going into this season.

37. 1975 Comeback win against Michigan

34. David Boston

1975 Season

Wide Receiver, 1996-1998

The top-ranked, undefeated Buckeyes found themselves trailing heading in the fourth quarter of a road game against their arch rival that would determine a Big Ten title and Rose Bowl berth. Archie Griffin was held to just 46 yards, snapping his streak of 31 100-yard games, but the Buckeyes found a way, scoring the go-ahead touchdown with just 2:19 to go.

While these marks have since been eclipsed in today’s pass-first game, Boston set all-time school records for receptions (191), receiving yards (2,855), receiving touchdowns (34), and 100 yard receiving games (13). Boston even tallied more than 100 receiving yards in 8 of the 12 games during the Buckeyes 1998 season.

33. J.K. Dobbins Running Back, 2017-2019

Dobbins sits at number 2 all time in rushing for the Buckeyes (totaling just under 4,500 yards) and is the only player in the Scarlet and Gray to surpass 2,000 rushing yards in a single season. He added more than 600 receiving yards and 5 receiving touchdowns as well.

32. Dwayne Haskins Quarterback, 2016-2018

While Haskins was only the full-time starter for one season, that lone year was arguably the most statistically prolific from an OSU quarterback ever. He set the Big Ten Conference record for passing yards (4,831) and touchdowns (50) in a single season in 2018.

31. Jack Sawyer Scoop and Score 2024 season

Coming at a crucial moment in the 2024 College Football Playoff Semifinal, the Buckeyes held onto a 7-point lead late in the fourth quarter. Capping off an improbable goal-line stand that kept Texas out of the end zone, edge rusher Jack Sawyer forced a strip sack that he recovered and took 83 yards for a game-sealing score.

30. Keith Byars Running Back, 1982-1985

Byers finished 2nd in Heisman voting in 1994 secured 2,441 all-purpose yards the same year, setting a school record at the time and leading the nation in rushing. He’s also fourth all-time at OSU for points scored, with 300.

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29. From Joey Bosa, With Love

26. A.J. Hawk

2014 Season

Linebacker, 2002-2005

Would a loss against an unranked Penn State team likely have knocked the Buckeyes out of Playoff contention in 2014? Yeah, but there’s so much more to this moment. On a 4th down for Penn State, who was in need of an answer in double overtime after the Buckeyes scored first, Joey Bosa bullrushed a hapless Nittany Lions running back, quite literally throwing him into PSU quarterback Christian Hackenberg and ending the game. A walkoff sack involving a human missile that kept a National Championship season alive? This is the stuff you tell your kids about.

28. Maurice Clarett Running Back, 2002

Logging 175 rushing yards in the season opener his freshman year, Clarett finished the 2002 season with over 1,200 yards on the ground—a program record for a freshman. Had he played more than one season, he likely would be higher on this list... but his lone season culminating in a title, and some of the truly legendary plays he made that year (foreshadowing!), cement his legacy.

27. Jim Tressel’s “You’ll Be Proud” Promise 2001Offseason

The day Jim Tressel was hired, he gave a short speech to Buckeye Nation during a basketball halftime. “You’ll be proud of our young people in the classroom, in the community and, most especially, in 310 days in Ann Arbor, Michigan, on the football field.” His promise set the tone for an era of dominance, and a National Championship in the 2002 season.

Boasting 394 tackles (fifth all-time), 15.5 sacks, and 7 interceptions, A.J. Hawk did it all for the Buckeyes. A key piece of the defense for 4 years, he logged at least 100 tackles in 3 separate seasons. Hawk won the Lombardi Award in 2005 and took home All-American honors in 2004 and 2005.

Iconic coaches, a once-in-a-lifetime blindside protector, and a legendary Heisman trophy winner battle for the top spot

25. Randy Gradishar Linebacker, 1971-1973

We bent the rules by a few years again here, because when Woody Hayes calls you the best linebacker he ever coached, you deserve a place in the Buckeye 100. Gradishar tallied more than 300 tackles across his career, including 134 in the 1973 season, in which he finished sixth in Heisman voting.

24. Game of the Century 2006 Season

Yet another moment in OSU history that feels maybe even too cinematic for cinema was the Buckeyes’ 2006 clash against Michigan. National Championship implications were on the line, as both teams came into the game undefeated, ranked numbers 1 and 2 in the nation, respectively, and the game came one day after the death of legendary Michigan coach Bo Schembechler. A high-scoring affair finally came to a thrilling end when Ted Ginn Jr. secured an onside kick that snuffed out a Michigan comeback attempt. The Buckeyes won 42-39.

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23. Urban Meyer Head Coach, 2012-2018

While current head coach Ryan Day is not far behind, Meyer holds the highest winning percentage of any OSU head coach (0.902, with a record of 83-9), and he was a perfect 7-0 against Michigan.

22. 85 Yards Through the Heart of the South

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2014 Season

In the first round of the 2014 College Football Playoff, Ohio State was deep in its own territory hanging onto a 6-point lead with 3:40 left in the game. Ezekiel Elliott took a handoff to the left of the formation and never looked back. Neither did the Buckeyes. Elliott would scamper to an 85-yard score, and OSU would go on to win the game, and—just over a week later—the National Championship.

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21. Smelling Roses 1996 Season

In the 1997 Rose Bowl, the Buckeyes rallied from a late deficit, as quarterback Joe Germaine hit David Boston for a touchdown with just seconds remaining.

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20. C.J. Stroud Quarterback, 2020-2022

16. Back-to-Back National Championship Losses 2006, 2007 Seasons

This back-to-back Heisman finalist was also a Big Ten Offensive Player of the Year winner twice. Stroud is currently second all-time in Ohio State passing yards, with 8,123 across 27 games. Had OSU’s last-second field goal against Georgia in the 2022 College Football Playoff not sailed wide left, it’s very possible Stroud tacks “National Champion” onto his list of accolades as well.

It’s the question that rings through the head of every sports fan at least once a season: ‘What if?’ While 2 more trophies would have been a great addition to the program’s storied history, could winning against Florida in 2006 and LSU in 2007 have set the program on an even loftier trajectory? Could Tressel have weathered the Tattoogate storm with 3 rings?

15. J.T. Barrett Quarterback, 2013-2017

19. Chase Young Edge Rusher, 2017-2019

You don’t get the nickname “Predator” from just being really good. Boasting arguably the best dreadlocks in program history, Young is also second all-time in career sacks (30.5) and holds the single-season sack record (16.5).

18. The Dagger 2024 Season

Up a single score with 2:29 left in the 2025 National Championship game, OSU faced a critical 3rd and 11. They dialed up their best play to their best player, as Jeremiah Smith hauled in a dramatic, 56-yard bomb from quarterback Will Howard, effectively sealing a National Championship.

17. Cris Carter Wide Receiver, 1984-1986

Though he didn’t play a senior season for the Buckeyes, Carter tallied 168 receptions for more than 2,400 yards and 27 touchdowns in 3 seasons before moving on to a prolific NFL career that cemented his legacy as one of the greatest receiver talents of all time.

Barrett set a staggering 34 program records during his time at Ohio State. He remains as the all-time leader for career passing yards (9,434)—over 1,000 yards ahead of second-place quarterback C.J. Stroud. Barrett also holds the record for career passing touchdowns (104) and completions (769).

14. James Laurinaitis Linebacker, 2005-2008 Assistant Coach, 2024-Present

One of only 8 Buckeyes to be named an All-American 3 times, and the only one to achieve this status since 2008. Laurinaitis stands as one of the most decorated linebackers among a plethora on this list. In his breakout 2006 season, he tallied 115 tackles, 5 interceptions, 8.5 tackles for loss, and 4 sacks. He currently serves as an assistant coach for the Buckeyes—where he led one of the most ferocious units in the country in 2024, and helped not one but 2 OSU linebackers get selected within the top 7 picks in the 2026 NFL Draft, an incredible feat in its own right.

13. Tattoogate 2010-2011

After several players were discovered to have exchanged game-worn jerseys and gear for free tattoos, Ohio State lost bowl eligibility for the 2012 season—a season in which they were undefeated and likely would’ve competed for a National Championship.

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12. Ezekiel ElliotT Running Back, 2013-2015

“Zeke” remains third all-time in career rushing yards (3,961) at OSU, holds the second-highest single season rushing total (1,878), and logged 15 straight 100 yard rushing games. Add in his place in some of the most storied moments in OSU history, and you have a legend.

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11. Jim Tressel Head Coach, 2001-2010

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Though the Urban vs. Tressel debate won’t come to an end with this list, we decided not to mess with the vest. He finished his OSU tenure with a record of 106-22 and a National Championship. Winning 9 of 10 against The Team Up North, Tressel also receives bonus points for his signature game day vest.

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Off Menu Medicine On the Record.

Offensive Tackle, 1970-1973

and eczema ic h a on net i c l opec 03 ge sclerosus ia en

Bexley clinical trials enrolling now. Dermatology An ch Research is the L i c hd r o r premier dermatology research site in Bexley, Ohio. We strive to advance the dermatological treatment options available Have a diagnosed skin condition? to our community. Scan the QR code above to learn We do so by more about our enrolling trials — exploring and how you could be compensated cutting-edge treatments for a for your participation. variety of dermatological conditions. www.bexleydermresearch.com

10. John Hicks

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While his career technically ended too early to make him eligible for our list, we’ll move the goal posts for a player this impactful. Hicks not only won the Outland and Lombardi trophies in 1973, he was the first player to start in three Rose Bowls and finished second in Heisman voting in 1973... as an offensive lineman.

9. Mike Vrabel Edge Rusher, 1993-1996 Assistant Coach, 2011-2013

The program’s career sack leader (36), Vrabel is fourth all-time with 13 sacks in a single season. Carrying that energy into coaching, he returned to the Buckeyes after a decorated NFL career to coach the team’s linebackers and defensive line before landing several head coaching jobs in the pros.

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8. Troy Smith Quarterback, 2003-2006

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A Heisman Trophy winner, Troy Smith secured over 91% of the possible votes for the prestigious award—a record that held up until Joe Burrow tallied 93.1% in 2019. Smith boasts a 3-0 record against Michigan and was a unanimous All-American.

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7. Cardale Jones Leads Buckeyes to firstever CFP National Championship 2014 Season

This is the stuff football movies are made of. And not even realistic football movies. The idea that—in the firstever College Football Playoff—a mostly untested, thirdstring quarterback could step off the bench to lead the underdog Buckeyes through a buzzsaw stretch against Alabama and Oregon seemed improbable at best. Did we mention he threw for 242 yards (completing almost 70% of his passes) while dropping 42 points against the second-ranked Oregon Ducks in the National Championship game?

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6. Eddie George

3. Orlando Pace

Running Back, 1992-1995

Offensive Tackle, 1994-1996

George, who won the Heisman in 1995, set the singleseason rushing record at the time with over 1,927 yards, while also setting the single-game rushing record with over 300 yards against Illinois. He tallied 11 straight 100-yard games, 3 total 200-yard games, and has the third-most career rushing touchdowns (44).

5. Maurice Clarett strips Sean Taylor after Interception in National Championship 2002 Season

Marching toward the end zone and leading by only 7, Ohio State quarterback Craig Krenzel threw a critical interception to Hurricanes star Sean Taylor in the end zone. In an improbable turn of events, Clarett managed to strip the ball from Taylor which gave Ohio State the ball back with a fresh set of downs. OSU would go on to win the game, and the National Championship, against a heavily-favored Miami team.

4. Chris Spielman Linebacker 1984-1987

OSU’s all-time leader in solo tackles with 283, and third on the all-time career tackles list (546), Spielman was a Lombardi Award winner and team MVP his senior year. Extending his impact off the field, he created the Stefanie Spielman Fund for breast cancer research at Ohio State after his wife’s cancer diagnosis in 1998—the fund has raised more than $26 million dollars since its inception. 60

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Playing a position in which success is often defined by what does not happen (sacks), Pace managed to make an impact in his time at OSU that matched his enormous 6’7” stature. He finished fourth in Heisman voting, won 2 Lombardi awards, claimed both the Big Ten Most Valuable Player and Big Ten Offensive Player of the Year awards in the same year, and gave up zero sacks during his entire career.

2. woody hayes Head Coach 1951-1978

It’s hard to argue with 205 career wins (most all-time for a Buckeyes coach, and it’s not even close) and 13 Big Ten Championships across 28 seasons with Ohio State. It’s even harder to argue with five National Championships (1954, 1957, 1961, 1968, 1970). Hayes claims the top spot as a non-player by a significant margin. He even has a street named after him in Columbus, what more do you want?

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1. archie griffin Running Back, 1972-1975

You could start and stop at “2-time Heisman-winner,” and Griffin would keep his place at the top of this list, as it’s a feat that has never been repeated in the history of college football. You wouldn’t need to add the fact that he’s Ohio State’s all-time leading rusher with 5,589 yards (over 1,000 more than J.K. Dobbins at number 2), or that he logged an absolutely staggering 31 straight 100 yard games (the players tied for the number 2 spot have 15), or the fact that he led Ohio State to 4 straight Big Ten titles, and 4 consecutive Rose Bowl appearances.

Tavares Strachan UNTIL JANUARY 3, 2027 Columbus Museum of Art @ The Pizzuti

Strachan is a young, Bahamian conceptual artist, mixing “art, science, and cultural inquiry.” Take in his paintings, sculptures, and selfplaying instruments, and afterwards, enjoy the fully-operational rum bar accompanying the exhibit.

From Olivia Rodrigo to Sweeney Todd and Hannibal Burress, Columbus’ Fall arts scene is heating up this autumn, just as the weather is cooling down Hannibal Buress By Laura Jones Story Design by Brooke Sheridan

SEPTEMBER 29

Funny Bone Comedy Club Fans of The Eric Andre Show or Broad City will recognize this stand up, who is also remembered for writing the routine that brought down Bill Cosby.

Kacey Musgrave SEPTEMBER 9

Schottenstein Center Musgraves is a cut above country: a chanteuse writing wry tunes about smoking pot, respecting neighbors, and being—ahem —“lonely with a capital ‘H’.”

Hops on High & Highball Halloween OCTOBER 3

Short North Arts District Billed as a seasonal kickoff, this year two Short North events are combining into what is likely to become a fall mainstay, as Highball Halloween integrates with Hops on High, combining the artforward focus of the latter with the openair energy of Hops on High.

CHOREOGRAPHIC WORKSHOP BALLETMET PERFORMANCE SPACE SEPTEMBER 10 — 12, 2026

photos: Jennifer Zmuda | dancers: Katelyn Yang, Sophie Miklosovic

Sweeney Todd

Marilyn Monroe™; Rights of Publicity and Persona Rights are used with permission of The Estate of Marilyn Monroe LLC.

SEPTEMBER 24 - OCTOBER 18 Garden Theater

Attend the tale of Sweeney Todd. His skin is pale and his face is odd. But where else are you going to see this classic Sondheim show featuring a revenge-obsessed barber who turns his customers into street food?

DAVIDSON THEATRE OCTOBER 16 — 24, 2026

JOIN US AT THE THEATRE! Get tickets at www.balletmet.org

Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra with Wynton Marsalis OCTOBER 6

Mershon Auditorium If you love what is sometimes called “straight ahead jazz”—highly listenable, mainstream classics using traditional instruments—then you’ll love this show with the famed trumpeter and his backup band, the Lincoln Center Orchestra.

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Jo Koy OCTOBER 10

Shaboozey

Palace Theater

OCTOBER 7

Filipino comic Jo Koy commentated next to Chelsea Handler for over 100 episodes of her late-night talk show, and is now a top grossing comedian in his own right, bringing jokes about fatherhood, Asian culture, and growing up with a white dad.

KEMBA Live!

Over the last few years, country music as a genre has seen influence from sources that aren’t associated with Ford trucks or cowboy hats. Part of what’s been most exciting is the space opening up for Black and genrebending musicians like Shaboozey.

OCTOBER 16-24

Ballet Met @ Davidson Theatre Don’t listen to Chalamet. Ballet is challenging more contemporary concepts than Swan Lake. Here, Ballet Met takes on the iconic life of America’s favorite enigmatic beauty.

Olivia Rodrigo

Maybe Happy Ending

OCTOBER 29-30

NOVEMBER 3-8

After soaring to stardom with her breakout hit, Driver’s License, Rodrigo is landing in Columbus with The Unraveled Tour, celebrating the release of her newest album, you seem pretty sad for a girl so in love.

Ever wondered if ChatGPT truly loves you or feels human emotions? Then this newest Tony winner about a Helperbot who falls for the “robot next door” is for you, your Claude, and Siri, too.

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The Ohio Theatre

The Jinkx & DeLa Holiday Show NOVEMBER 14 Southern Theatre

You might be too old to sit on Santa’s knee, but you’re never too old for a present. Unwrap this holiday show featuring everyone’s favorite Broadway drag queen, Jinkx Monsoon, and her ‘50s era bestie, BenDeLaCreme. Expect songs, camp, and plenty of good natured Ho Ho Ho’s.

sweat variant adaku, part 2 OCTOBER 20-22

Wexner Center for the Arts If modern dance is more your style, check out this newly commissioned multidisciplinary performance about the transatlantic slave trade. Adaku, part 2 uses movement, text, and design that “considers cycles of ritual and repair.”

Chihuly Nights SEPTEMBER 5, OCTOBER 3, NOVEMBER 7 Franklin Park Conservatory & Botanical Gardens

ON VIEW THROUGH JANUARY 3, 2027

Experience art with all your senses in Tavares Strachan’s first U.S. museum survey—only at The Pizzuti, Columbus Museum of Art’s campus in the Short North Arts District.

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Sometimes art is just…pretty. And what’s more beautiful than Chihuly’s gorgeous glass sculptures illuminated inside the Conservatory at night? With live music and a guided tour, After Dark never felt so magical.

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By Laura Hennigan Story Design by Julie Friedman

Autumn in Appalachia Mere hours from Columbus, these five fall getaways will take you into the heart of Appalachia, and a whole new world from Columbus

panning 206,000 square miles across 13 states, Appalachia is a massive cultural and geographic region in eastern North America, centered on the Appalachian Mountains. Stretching from southern New York to northern Mississippi, the area offers limitless opportunities for exploration, with plenty of steep ridges, deep valleys, extensive

forests, plus a culture and charm all of its own. As the temperatures drop and the leaves change colors, autumn in Appalachia represents peak fall beauty, making it the perfect weekend roadtrip destination. We’ve rounded up some of the best spots to check out this fall, all within a few hours’ drive.

Adams County’s Serpent Mound

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ADAMS COUNTY, OH Bordered by the Ohio River and resting on the edge of the Appalachian foothills, Adams County represents the unique intersection of small-town Appalachia and Amish Country. It is home to over a dozen nature areas, including the Edge of Appalachia Preserve, a 21,000-acre sanctuary run by the Nature Conservancy and the Cincinnati Museum Center, Serpent Mound, the largest serpent effigy in the world, and Shawnee State Forest, one of the most picturesque areas of the state. You can also grab a fresh pretzel, baked goods, or exquisite hand-made furniture from one of several Amish-owned stores in the county.

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On-Site Hiking Trails, Volleyball, Pond, Playground and across from Fox’s High Rock Farm Petting Zoo

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Home to West Virginia University, Morgantown merges a lively college town with Appalachian charm. Schedule a trip that lines up with a Mountaineers home game and plan for a weekend full of sports, shopping, dining and outdoor pursuits. Head to Coopers Rock State Forest for beautiful hiking trails and overlooks, or Dorsey’s Knob, which offers panoramic views from one of the highest points in Monongalia County. You can even fly through the trees on WVU’s Outdoor Education Center’s zipline canopy tour and roam the Core Arboretum, which has 3 miles of trails, lawns, and old growth forest. If water sports are your jam, the Monongahela River is the perfect setting for kayaking, paddleboarding, and canoeing.

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Sand Cave at Cumberland Gap National Historical Park

CUMBERLAND GAP, TN Situated at the tri-state border of Tennessee, Kentucky, and Virginia, Cumberland Gap is a historical landmark famous for being used as a gateway to the West. Between 1780 and 1810, nearly 300,000 settlers crossed the gap, and in 1940, Cumberland Gap National Historical Park was established to protect the region. Today it is a bustling destination full of shops and restaurants, along with plenty of options for outdoor pursuits. Biking is a popular activity and there are rentals available if you don’t want to haul your own. Visitors can also hike the many trails, take tours of the cave, and make a stop at the Hensley Settlement, an Appalachian living history museum. Step back in time with a stay at The Olde Mill Inn, which offers eight luxurious and unique rooms, ranging from an authentic 1700s log cabin to a king-sized custom millwork masterpiece.

Big Stone Gap

BIG STONE GAP, VA Founded in 1856, Big Stone Gap is a historic coal-mining hub that lies in the heart of Appalachia. Surrounded by the towering Appalachian Mountains, this small town has big stories and even bigger views. It first gained notoriety when famous early 20th-century author John Fox Jr. lived in the area and wrote The Trail of the Lonesome Pine. It then provided the setting for Adriana Trigiani’s popular Big Stone Gap novels, which were later turned into a movie. Allow plenty of time to explore Natural Tunnel State Park, which is home to a huge tunnel that naturally carved through the limestone over thousands of years. Take a scenic, 10-story chairlift ride down into the gorge to the floor near the mouth of the tunnel, and then follow one of the many hiking paths. The park has cabins available for overnight stays, or there are a variety of lodging options in town, including several Airbnbs.

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BEREA, KY Nestled up against the rugged Cumberland Plateau, the unique town of Berea is full of festivals, trails, parks, and performances. Situated in southern Madison County, near the edge of Central Kentucky’s Bluegrass region, it’s located 39 miles south of Lexington and serves as the Folk Arts and Crafts capital of the state. Plan to spend some time exploring Artisan Village, which includes studios, handmade jewelry, fabric stores, galleries, glass studios, and boutique shops, and the Kentucky Artisan Center, which features the work of over 800 local artisans. Then head outside for hiking at Berea Pinnacles and Boone Trace Trail, or an afternoon of kayaking at Owsley Fork Reservoir. When it’s time for sustenance and a rest, make a reservation at Boone Tavern, a historic hotel offering fine dining and relaxing accommodations. Be sure to enjoy some of their famous signature Spoon Bread, which the tavern has been serving for over 75 years.

East Pinnacle at the Berea Pinnacles

How the spotted lanternfly invasion led to a mysterious and delicious new honey produced by Columbus bees

STRANGE

Sweet and

By John Clark Photos by Steven Rankins Story Design by Brooke Sheridan

eekeeper Nina Bagley said she first experienced it last summer. “I took the lid off one of my hives, looked inside and almost fell over,” she said. Nothing in her 18 years of beekeeping had prepared Franklin County’s official apiary inspector for that moment. “The honey looked like used motor oil.” Mind racing, Bagley quickly consulted other beekeepers in the county. They were seeing the same thing. So was a colleague of hers at Ohio State University, and the top entomologist at Penn State, and a beekeeper in West Virginia who had begun phoning her OSU colleague. What was going on? It didn’t take long for Bagley to draw a connection between the “motor oil” honey and the area’s first full-scale infestation of the spotted lanternfly—hated because of its voracious appetite for fruit trees and grapevines. It seems that the colorful insect we’ve been told to squish on sight was giving Buckeye honeybees something new to buzz about.

The invasive, no-good, freeloading insect had spread across much of the Midwest by mid-2025, munching on sugary sap from just about every available source and leaving much of it behind in their clear, sticky excrement. And that excrement was everywhere—on tree trunks, on the ground, on cars, and outdoor furniture. One local woman said she actually stepped out of one of her sandals when it became stuck to lanternfly droppings (formally referred to as “frass”) on a sidewalk near her house. Hard-working honeybees, who had eaten through most of the season’s supply of nectar from flowers, seemed overjoyed to have found a new tasty treat. And they were taking as much as they could back to their hives. So, would lanternfly poop harm the bees? What would it mean for beekeepers like Bagley…and for the hives…and for honey crops…and, most importantly, for ordinary people who like to add a little regurgitated honeybee nectar to their tea or cereal or even on their yogurt? Testing showed that lanternfly honey is safe for bees, and safe for humans. The consistency is about the same, though many find it a little less sweet than regular honey and with a smoky or woodsy taste. Yes, there definitely is a market for lanternfly honey, though Bagley prefers to call it “honeydew” honey. To be real honey, she says, the stuff has to be produced strictly from floral nectar. So far, Bagley’s lanternfly honey has sold very well, as has a blend of mid-season honey and the newer, lateseason variety. She markets it through several shops in her German Village neighborhood and at specialty stores like Advanced Wellness in Grandview and the gift shop at the Columbus Museum of Art. →

↑ Lanternfly honey, or “honeydew honey,” far right, is much darker than honey produced earlier in the season; it’s also less sweet and slightly smokey in flavor

Franklin County’s official apiary inspector Nina Bagley, known to her friends as ‘Queen Bee’ →

THE consistency IS ABOUT THE SAME, THOUGH MANY F IND IT A LITTLE less sweet THAN REGULAR HONEY AND WITH A smoky OR WOODSY TASTE. Customers at Morgan House Restaurant & Gift Shop in Dublin have made Bagley’s honeydew honey one of its best-selling local products. A spokesperson said their shoppers are often interested in items that are a little “different” and that they appreciate the honey’s unusual smoky, fruity flavor blend. As it turns out, honeydew honey has been in demand in other parts of the world for hundreds of years—as an antibacterial and anti-inflammatory topical agent for cuts and other small wounds. In New Zealand and Australia, honeydew honey made with nectar from the flowering manuka tree is also a common and effective remedy for sore throats and as a digestive aid. And because it’s available for only a few weeks each year, manuka honey commands a high price. Medical testing of honeydew honey from spotted lanternflies in the United States is still in the early stages. But already, there is evidence that it may have even greater microbial properties than the variety from Down Under. Except there’s no shortage of the Central Ohio type. And for many beekeepers, therein lies the rub. Apparently, honeybees don’t know when to stop. “They’re hoarders,” Bagley said. “They will keep producing honey for as long as they have the nectar to make it with.” That means beekeepers have to work harder and later into the year to keep the hives from clogging. “If you don’t stay on top of it, the queens won’t have enough room to lay their eggs.” “I’m running out of equipment like honey supers and hive boxes to give the bees the extra room they need,” she added. If a hive gets too crowded, it can lead to a breakdown in the colony and cause many of the bees to either die or look for a new home elsewhere, taking the queen with them.

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↑ Local beekeepers have their hands full managing the new surplus of honey

Bagley, who turned a backyard hobby into a career, says she’s conflicted about the spotted lanternfly. There’s no doubt it’s increasing the amount of honey and “honeydew” she profits from. “At least I know my bees will have plenty of honey to get them through the winter,” she said. “And I’ll have more than enough to sell.” But the woman known as “Queen Bee” to her friends and colleagues realizes she has to slow down. “I’m exhausted,” she said. “I want to retire. I want to teach others about beekeeping and not have to spend my days racing from one hive to another, scooping honey.” But if the experts are right, the spotted lanternfly is here to stay. So, as long as honeybees keep craving that smoky, woodsy taste of fresh insect poop, there’ll be no slowing down for beekeepers across the Midwest, including the Queen Bee herself. ♦

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