When Navy emerges from the tunnel Saturday in its opener at Ohio State, the Midshipmen will receive an unusual welcome. They’re likely to be applauded.
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The reception is part of an orchestrated effort by the Ohio State athletic department, urging fans to cheer when Navy takes the field. The following message appears in a 105-second online video: “Some things are more important than football … service to your country and respecting those who serve.”
No. 7 Ohio State might feel good about its initiative. But some at Navy aren’t so enthusiastic. To the underdog Midshipmen, picked to lose by 22 points, it sounds like a pity party.
“My dad always says how awesome it is when we run in and [opposing fans] clap,” Navy linebacker Clint Sovie told the Cleveland Plain Dealer. “But I always say I kind of hate it. We love going into hostile environments.”
This is the first time Ohio State has hosted a service academy since 1931. The Buckeyes are intent on making it a happening. Former Ohio senator and Navy pilot John Glenn will dot the “i” with the OSU band at halftime.
“The request for tickets has been as high … We may set a stadium record,” said Ohio State coach Jim Tressel. “There’s a whole bunch of excitement about playing the Naval Academy.”
But the Midshipmen would like the “excitement” to be tempered by a small dose of fear.
