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The history of Ohio State's iconic Brutus Buckeye mascot explored in new book

Ohio State mascot Brutus Buckeye cheers before an NCAA college basketball game between Wisconsin and Ohio State Tuesday, Feb. 17, 2026, in Columbus, Ohio.
Sue Ogrocki
/
AP
Ohio State mascot Brutus Buckeye cheers before an NCAA college basketball game between Wisconsin and Ohio State Tuesday, Feb. 17, 2026, in Columbus, Ohio.

For most Ohio State fans, Brutus Buckeye is simply the mascot on the sidelines.

But behind that giant Buckeye head are students who are balancing classes, early-morning workouts, practices and hundreds of appearances.

For an entire year, Columbus Dispatch journalists Sheridan Hendrix and Adam Cairns followed the Brutus team behind the scenes, from tryouts and mascot camp to football games, community events and a run at a national championship.

Their reporting became the new book Being Brutus, which explores the history, work and people behind one of Ohio State’s most recognizable traditions.

Guests:

WOSU is currently in the middle of our fall drive. When you donate, you can receive a copy of Being Brutus.

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