Central KY viewers angry over Fox 56 decision not to air Ohio State-Indiana football game
A decision by a Lexington television station to not air a top-5 college football matchup Saturday afternoon generated severe pushback from viewers.
Fox56 opted to air several high school basketball exhibition games rather than the much-anticipated matchup between No. 2 Ohio State and No. 5 Indiana University, prompting many to take to social media to voice their frustration.
A recorded message on Fox’s phone line explained the decision.
“Fox 56 is committed to covering classrooms and athletics across the Bluegrass,” the message stated. “Saturday’s Fox 56 Home Team Showcase highlights girls and boys basketball teams across Central Kentucky. Plans for the 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. live showcase have been in the works since May. It will preempt the recently announced Ohio State vs. Indiana college football game.”
WDKY said viewers with a paid television service subscription could livestream the college game on FoxSports.com and the Fox Sports app.
Many viewers were not happy.
Fox 56 shared a link to a programming note about the decision on Facebook Saturday afternoon, saying they “are thankful for the communities we serve and stand behind our commitment to create impactful and locally produced content.”
The post generated 75 comments, most of which complained that the football game wasn’t on.
X user @EricRandall17 said it might be the “worst decision in television history,” while another, @StrouthJosh, suggested boycotting the station.
However, a few people expressed their approval.
“Just want to say thank you to Fox56 for supporting high School Athletics this afternoon,” an X user with the handle @KeithForReal33 wrote.
After a close first half, Ohio State pulled away and beat Indiana 38-15. .
This story was originally published November 23, 2024 at 2:54 PM.
