Ohio State Hosts Grambling State in Historic FBS vs. FCS Matchup

Posted By: County Sports Network September 2, 2025

Ohio State (1-0) hosts Grambling State (1-0) at 3:30 p.m. Saturday in Ohio Stadium, airing on the Big Ten Network. The Buckeyes are coming off a dramatic 14-7 win over No. 1 Texas, extending their streak of opening-week victories to 25 and marking seven straight wins over Top 10 teams—a first in program history. Snag your own Ohio State Sweatshirt on Amazon

Grab your Ohio State Throw Blanket on Amazon

Grambling State, an FCS school led historically by legendary coach Eddie Robinson, defeated Langston 55-7 in their season opener. This Ohio State vs. FCS matchup is one of 16 similar games nationally this weekend, including four other Big Ten teams. Ohio State has a strong historical record against FCS opponents, with their last loss coming in 1940.

Other notable stats:

  • Ohio State has seven straight wins against Top 10 teams.
  • 55 former Buckeyes are active in the NFL this season, including 13 rookies from 2024.
  • The game continues Ohio State’s streak of dominance in Ohio Stadium, where no SEC team has won (0-5).
  • Fourteen Big Ten schools, including Ohio State, face an FCS opponent this season.

Check out the Ultimate Guide to Ohio Stadium

Grambling State University has a storied football history, highlighted by several significant victories. Here are five of their most notable wins:

1. 1975 Bayou Classic Victory Over Southern University

In the inaugural Bayou Classic, Grambling State defeated Southern University 43–16, establishing a longstanding rivalry that continues to be a highlight of the college football calendar.

2. 2016 Celebration Bowl Championship

Grambling State clinched the 2016 Air Force Reserve Celebration Bowl title with a narrow 10–9 win over North Carolina Central. This victory secured the Tigers’ status as the undisputed HBCU National Champions.

3. Historic 1976 Victory in Tokyo

On September 24, 1976, Grambling State became the first collegiate football team from the United States to play in Asia, defeating Morgan State 42–16 in Tokyo, Japan. This landmark game showcased the global reach of college football.

4. 1980 SWAC Championship Game

Grambling State secured the Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC) championship with a decisive 43–16 victory over Southern University, further cementing their dominance in the conference.

5. 2016 SWAC Championship Over Alcorn State

In the 2016 SWAC Championship Game, Grambling State triumphed over Alcorn State with a 27–20 victory, highlighting their continued excellence in the conference.

These victories reflect Grambling State’s rich football tradition and their impact on college football history.

Check out this Grambling State Tumbler on Amazon

Note: At no additional cost to you we are compensated for purchases made through links on this website.

Facebooktwitterredditpinterestlinkedinmail
SHARE TWEET PIN SHARE