Buckeyes might play spring game in Cincinnati

CINCINNATI - The Ohio State Buckeyes might play their 2013 spring football game at Paul Brown Stadium in downtown Cincinnati.

Ohio State officials announced Wednesday that talks are under way with the Cincinnati Bengals and Hamilton County regarding the game.

The Buckeyes need a substitute venue in 2013 because Ohio Stadium will be under renovation. The A and C decks of Ohio Stadium are being refurbished and 1922-era coating and concrete are being stripped and replaced.

Ohio State Director of Athletics Gene Smith said "we are very appreciative to be in discussions with the Cincinnati Bengals." There has been no comment from the Bengals or Hamilton County officials.

The 2012 game at Ohio State was played on April 21 with more than 81,000 fans were in attendance. Paul Brown Stadium seats 65,535.

Ohio State has played a game in Paul Brown Stadium one time before. During the 2002 season Ohio State held on to beat the Bearcats at Paul Brown Stadium 23-19. The Buckeyes went on to win the National Championship that season over the Miami Hurricanes.

UC and Ohio State were also scheduled to play at Paul Brown Stadium this year. However, that game was postponed and the two schools agreed to play the next two contests in Columbus.