​There have been numerous changes announced for the Ohio State football program during the offseason, and one of the standout updates is the installation of a brand-new turf inside the storied Ohio Stadium. The field is set to be ready for the 2026 season, and while construction continues, fans have a limited window to glimpse the progress and get a behind-the-scenes look at the transformation.
Ohio State already offers tours of Ohio Stadium, and a new opportunity has emerged to tour the Horseshoe itself. According to an OSU release, the program will host a limited-time Turf Tours experience, giving guests an up-close chance to observe the field’s evolution as the old turf comes out and the new surface goes in. The schedule for this unique experience runs from July 22 to July 31. During these dates, guests who purchase tickets will be granted access to a tour that includes the Press Box, NetJets Landing, the Huntington Club, the Band Center, and the Home Locker Room before moving down to field level to witness the turf installation in progress.
The new playing surface at Ohio Stadium will feature Shaw Sports Turf’s Forge Series system and will be installed by The Motz Group. Safelite will continue to sponsor the field. The Forge Series is a system-level product line designed to meet NFL standards and includes Game ON technology, which integrates field markings directly into the turf. This integration promises to create a crisp, consistent look that fans will notice from sideline to sideline and throughout the season, with anticipation building for how the field’s appearance will translate on game day.
In addition to the behind-the-scenes access, every paid participant in the Turf Tour will receive a piece of national championship turf to take home, while supplies last. Tickets and further details are available by visiting OhioStadiumTours.com. Those seeking updates can follow Buckeyes Wire on X (formerly Twitter) at @BuckeyesWire or like the Buckeyes Wire page on Facebook for ongoing coverage of Ohio State news, notes, and opinion. For those who want to keep up with the author, Phil Harrison can be followed on X.
This currency of change is part of a broader narrative surrounding Ohio State football, highlighting the program’s commitment to modernization and continued excellence. The Turf Tours offer a rare, tangible glimpse into the meticulous work happening behind the scenes as the team prepares to unveil a field that blends cutting-edge technology with the prestige of a historic venue. As fans look forward to the 2026 season, the anticipation around the new turf and the updated stadium environment adds another layer to the excitement surrounding Buckeye football. This feature article originally appeared on Buckeyes Wire, underscoring how the program is leveraging enhanced experiences for fans while maintaining a focus on performance, branding, and tradition.