Presenting compelling cases for each finalist to determine the greatest Ohio State Buckeye in football history.
Ohio State University’s football program is one of the most storied and prestigious in college football history. Since its inception in 1890, the Buckeyes have built a tradition of excellence marked by national championships, Heisman Trophy winners, and countless NFL stars. As Ohio State continues to dominate on and off the field, the debate about who stands as the greatest Buckeye of all time intensifies. To determine the greatest Ohio State Buckeye in football history, it’s essential to evaluate the finalists based on their contributions, leadership, performance, and lasting legacy. Here, we present compelling cases for some of the most iconic Buckeyes who deserve to be in that conversation.
Archie Griffin: The Only Two-Time Heisman Trophy Winner
When discussing Ohio State’s greatest football player, no name shines brighter than Archie Griffin. Griffin’s legacy is defined by his unparalleled achievement as the only athlete in college football history to win the Heisman Trophy twice, earning the prestigious award in 1974 and 1975.
Achievements and Impact
Griffin’s collegiate career was marked by exceptional consistency, durability, and explosiveness. Over four seasons, he amassed more than 5,500 rushing yards, including numerous memorable games where he dominated defenses with his speed and vision. His running style combined power with finesse, and he possessed an uncanny ability to break tackles and gain crucial yards in critical moments.
Archie Griffin was a symbol of excellence and leadership for Ohio State during a period when the program was a national powerhouse. His back-to-back Heisman wins not only elevated his status but also brought Ohio State into the national spotlight repeatedly. Beyond statistics, Griffin represented the heart and soul of the Buckeyes, embodying work ethic, humility, and determination.
Legacy
Griffin’s legacy transcends football. His name is etched into Ohio State lore and the College Football Hall of Fame. The university honors him annually through the Archie Griffin Award, given to college football’s most valuable player. His influence extends beyond his playing days, as Griffin has contributed to the Ohio State community as an ambassador and mentor.
Eddie George: The Powerful Workhorse and Heisman Winner
Eddie George’s name is synonymous with strength, perseverance, and relentless effort. As the 1995 Heisman Trophy winner, George powered the Buckeyes’ offense and remains one of the most dominant running backs in school history.
Achievements and Impact
George’s career at Ohio State was marked by extraordinary consistency and productivity. He rushed for over 3,600 yards and scored 37 rushing touchdowns, demonstrating both the ability to grind out tough yards and break explosive runs. His durability was unmatched; George rarely missed a game and was known for his tough, physical running style that wore down defenses.
The 1995 season was the pinnacle of George’s career. He led the Buckeyes to an undefeated regular season, earning the Heisman Trophy by showcasing his all-around ability as a runner, blocker, and leader. George’s leadership helped maintain Ohio State’s status as a national title contender.
Legacy
George’s success continued in the NFL, where he became a four-time Pro Bowl selection. His impact at Ohio State paved the way for future running backs and solidified the school’s reputation for producing elite talent at the position. George remains an influential figure in Buckeye history and continues to inspire young athletes.
Jim Tressel: The Architect of Modern Ohio State Success
While players often dominate discussions about greatness, coaches play an equally vital role in shaping a program’s legacy. Jim Tressel’s tenure as Ohio State’s head coach from 2001 to 2010 elevated the Buckeyes to national prominence with consistent winning seasons and a national championship.
Achievements and Impact
Tressel’s defining moment came in 2002 when he led Ohio State to a perfect season capped by a thrilling victory in the BCS National Championship over the Miami Hurricanes. His “Tresselball” philosophy emphasized tough defense, ball control, and mistake-free football, which brought stability and consistency.
Under Tressel, Ohio State won five Big Ten titles and made numerous Rose Bowl appearances. His ability to recruit and develop talent kept the program competitive year after year. Beyond X’s and O’s, Tressel was respected for his emphasis on academic success and integrity, fostering a culture of accountability.
Legacy
Despite some controversies later in his tenure, Tressel’s overall impact on Ohio State was transformative. He restored Ohio State as a perennial contender and laid the groundwork for future coaches. His coaching tree and influence extend beyond Columbus, and his 2002 national championship remains one of the program’s proudest moments.
Orlando Pace: The Dominant Offensive Lineman and NFL Hall of Famer
Offensive linemen rarely receive the same fanfare as skill players, but Orlando Pace’s dominance on the line was fundamental to Ohio State’s success in the 1990s. He is widely considered one of the greatest offensive tackles in college football history.
Achievements and Impact
Pace was a two-time consensus All-American and won the prestigious Lombardi Award as the nation’s best lineman. His combination of size, athleticism, and technique made him nearly unblockable. Pace’s blocking opened lanes for Ohio State’s rushing attack and protected quarterbacks, significantly impacting the team’s offensive efficiency.
His leadership and work ethic inspired teammates and helped Ohio State remain competitive in a tough Big Ten conference. Pace’s presence on the field elevated the entire offense, allowing skill players to shine.
Legacy
Pace’s transition to the NFL was equally impressive, leading to a Hall of Fame career with the St. Louis Rams. His legacy at Ohio State is one of excellence and pioneering the importance of dominant line play in college football. He helped elevate the stature of linemen and remains a model for future Buckeyes.
Troy Smith: The Heisman-Winning Quarterback Who Revitalized the Offense
Troy Smith, the 2006 Heisman Trophy winner, brought excitement and dynamic playmaking to Ohio State’s offense. His leadership and talent helped keep the Buckeyes in national title conversations.
Achievements and Impact
Smith’s passing ability and mobility allowed Ohio State to operate a modern, balanced offense that adapted well to contemporary college football’s increasing emphasis on speed and versatility. He finished his Ohio State career with over 7,400 passing yards and 59 touchdowns.
His 2006 Heisman win was a testament to his skill and leadership, as he led the Buckeyes to an undefeated regular season and a berth in the BCS National Championship game. Smith’s ability to perform in clutch moments and elevate his teammates made him a fan favorite and a respected leader.
Legacy
Smith’s success paved the way for Ohio State’s continued development of elite quarterbacks. Though his NFL career was less distinguished, his impact at the collegiate level remains significant. He is remembered as a transformative figure who helped modernize the Buckeyes’ offensive identity.
Woody Hayes: The Legendary Coach Who Defined Ohio State Football
No discussion about the greatest Buckeyes is complete without mentioning Woody Hayes, whose coaching tenure from 1951 to 1978 shaped the foundation of Ohio State football’s winning tradition.
Achievements and Impact
Hayes won five national championships and 13 Big Ten titles, establishing Ohio State as a dominant force during his era. Known for his “three yards and a cloud of dust” philosophy, Hayes emphasized physicality, discipline, and defense.
His fiery personality and dedication made him a beloved, sometimes controversial figure. Hayes developed numerous NFL stars and coached players who became legends in their own right. His rivalry with Michigan and other Big Ten teams became part of college football lore.
Legacy
Woody Hayes’ legacy is monumental. He transformed Ohio State into a national powerhouse and instilled a culture of winning and toughness that still influences the program today. His impact goes beyond wins and losses; he shaped the identity of Ohio State football for generations.
The Greatest Buckeye Debate
Choosing the greatest Ohio State Buckeye in football history is a complex task because greatness can be defined in many ways: individual awards, team success, leadership, longevity, or overall impact on the program. Archie Griffin’s unmatched individual accolades, Jim Tressel’s coaching success, and Woody Hayes’ foundational legacy offer powerful but distinct claims. Eddie George and Troy Smith represent transformative offensive talents, while Orlando Pace highlights the importance of dominance in the trenches.
Ultimately, the greatest Buckeye depends on what criteria you value most. Is it unparalleled individual achievement, transformational leadership, or lasting cultural impact? Each finalist has a strong case, and the debate will continue as new Buckeyes emerge and the program evolves.
