Mylan Graham, the former Ohio State wide receiver, has a surprising take on academics at his new school, Notre Dame. 'You just have to show up', he says, contrasting the two programs.
In a recent interview with Talia Baia, Graham revealed that the biggest adjustment in his transfer wasn't on the field but in the classroom. While the football programs at these esteemed universities are often the focus, Graham's comments shed light on an intriguing academic comparison.
When asked about the differences, Graham stated, "Not too different. You just have to actually go in person... at Notre Dame, obviously, everyone knows the academic expectations." This statement hints at a potential controversy: Are Notre Dame's academic standards higher than Ohio State's?
The academic structures at these institutions differ significantly. Notre Dame doesn't offer asynchronous online classes, where students work independently with minimal instructor contact. Ohio State, however, provides distance-learning courses, allowing students to complete assignments and exams entirely online. This distinction may not seem major, but it could impact student-athletes' experiences.
Online courses gained popularity during the COVID-19 pandemic, and some athletes, like former Miami quarterback Carson Beck, have taken advantage of this flexibility. Beck's pre-championship game comments about having no in-person classes sparked debates. But is Graham implying that Ohio State's academic flexibility is a double-edged sword?
Graham's quote is bound to stir discussion among fans of both universities. While some may interpret it as a critique of Ohio State's academic approach, others might argue it's a reflection of Notre Dame's rigorous standards. And this is where opinions could clash.
Graham's football journey has been noteworthy. After redshirting in 2024 and a modest 2025 season, he transferred to Notre Dame, where he's expected to make a significant impact. But it's his academic insight that has fans talking, leaving many to wonder: Are Notre Dame's academic demands truly that much higher?
