Ohio State Could Lose an Outrageous Amount of Money if Forced to Play Football Games Without Fans

Coronavirus has shut down the sports world. As the pandemic continues, many leagues and teams are evaluating possible solutions to bring sports back. For the Ohio State Buckeyes, this means having to evaluate what would happen if football games are played without any spectators.

Estimates show that without any fans, the Buckeyes would lose $50 million. They have the sixth-largest stadium in the country, and when it's full, it brings in some serious cash.

A season played without fans could mean a $50 million hit to the @OhioStAthletics budget. https://t.co/anlRsubzsZ
— Dennis Dodd (@dennisdoddcbs) April 10, 2020

According to Athletic Director Gene Smith, each game would cost around $5 million to $7 million, and the entire season would add up to a concerning sum.

Despite the losses, Ohio State has had one of the most lucrative athletic departments in the country lately. They made over $205 million last season, making them the third-highest earning university in the country.

Gene Smith said Ohio State has completed its athletics budget for the 2020 fiscal year, and Ohio State will be "fine" for this year. As of now, Ohio State is budgeting for next year as if operations will be normal, but also preparing for worst-case scenarios.
— Dan Hope (@Dan_Hope) April 10, 2020

The $50 million estimate is only speculation, and it's unclear at this time whether or not the Buckeyes will have to play in front of an empty crowd.