Archie Griffin ’76 is looking forward to seeing a third generation of Griffins play in Ohio Stadium when his grandson takes the field this fall.

There are moments in sports that transcend time, moments when the past, present, and future intersect in a way that makes you appreciate the true power of tradition. For Archie Griffin, the only two-time Heisman Trophy winner in college football history, those moments are becoming all the more real as he prepares to see a third generation of Griffins take the field at Ohio Stadium this fall.

It’s a proud moment for any family when a legacy is passed down from one generation to the next, but for the Griffin family, it’s even more significant. Archie Griffin, who etched his name into Ohio State University folklore during his time as a standout running back from 1972 to 1975, will be watching as his grandson carries on the family tradition at the same place where Archie achieved his legendary status. For a man who has witnessed so many milestones in his own football career, the prospect of seeing his grandson play for the Buckeyes is an emotional and momentous occasion that links the family’s deep ties to Ohio State football.

As Ohio State prepares for another season of high expectations, the legacy of the Griffin family continues to inspire both fans and players alike. In a sport that is often defined by fleeting moments of individual brilliance, the Griffins have managed to create a lasting legacy of excellence, not just as athletes, but as icons within the Ohio State community.

Before delving into the excitement of his grandson’s upcoming debut, it’s important to reflect on the significance of Archie Griffin’s own career. When he arrived at Ohio State in 1972, Woody Hayes and the Buckeyes were already a college football powerhouse. But Griffin’s presence on the field elevated the team to unprecedented heights.

From the very start of his college career, Archie Griffin made an impact. Over his four years as a starter, Griffin became known for his rare combination of speed, vision, and toughness. He rushed for more than 5,000 yards during his time at Ohio State, and his durability on the field earned him the reputation of a player who could withstand any challenge. But what set Griffin apart was his consistency—his ability to take over games and make plays when it mattered most.

Griffin’s two Heisman Trophies (awarded in 1974 and 1975) cemented his legacy as one of the greatest players in college football history. He remains the only player to win the Heisman twice, a feat that has yet to be matched. His performances against the toughest opponents in the country, his leadership on the field, and his resilience in the face of adversity turned him into a beloved figure at Ohio State and beyond.

But what truly set Griffin apart was not just his individual accolades. It was his humility, his commitment to team, and his understanding of the greater purpose that athletics serve. He wasn’t just playing for personal glory—he was playing for Ohio State, for the fans, and for his teammates. That ethos of selflessness has been passed down through the generations, helping shape the culture of not only the Griffin family but also the entire Ohio State football program.

After finishing his career at Ohio State, Griffin went on to have a relatively brief career in the NFL, but his legacy continued to grow. He became an ambassador for Ohio State football, serving as a mentor to future players and a tireless advocate for the sport he loved. Over time, Griffin’s connection to the university deepened, and he became one of Ohio State’s most prominent alumni, returning to campus often to support the program and provide counsel to current players.

Now, more than four decades after Archie Griffin’s final game as a Buckeye, the Griffin legacy is set to continue with a new generation. The idea of a third-generation Griffin donning the scarlet and gray and playing in Ohio Stadium is nothing short of a dream come true for Archie. It’s the culmination of years of family history, of pride in the Ohio State program, and of a love for football that spans generations.

As of this fall, Archie’s grandson will take the field for the Buckeyes, marking a historic moment for the Griffin family. The excitement surrounding this new chapter in the family’s football journey is palpable, as Archie reflects on the journey that has led to this point.

While Archie is no longer the young player who electrified Ohio Stadium with his incredible runs, his passion for the game remains undiminished. He’s just as enthusiastic now about his grandson’s potential as he was about his own time playing for the Buckeyes. For a man who has seen so many unforgettable moments in his life, there’s something uniquely special about seeing his legacy carry on in such a meaningful way.

In a recent interview, Griffin shared his feelings about his grandson joining the Ohio State football program. “It’s an amazing feeling,” he said. “To see my grandson get the opportunity to wear the Scarlet and Gray, to play in Ohio Stadium—it’s something I could only dream of when I first came here. I never thought I’d see three generations of Griffins on the field for Ohio State, but now it’s happening, and I’m so proud of him.”

For the Griffin family, Ohio State University isn’t just a place where Archie made his name; it’s a place that has become an integral part of their identity. The family’s relationship with the Buckeyes is more than just about football—it’s about tradition, family, and community.

When Archie Griffin arrived at Ohio State in the early 1970s, he became part of something much larger than himself. Ohio State was a powerhouse in college football, and to play for the Buckeyes meant you were stepping onto a stage with some of the best athletes in the country. For Archie, the experience was transformative. It was where he learned the values of hard work, perseverance, and dedication that he would carry with him throughout his life.

Now, with his grandson preparing to take the same field that made Archie a household name, it’s clear that those same values are alive and well in the next generation of Griffins. While each generation of Buckeyes faces new challenges and opportunities, the connection to the program remains unbroken. The Ohio State family is an ever-evolving entity, and the Griffin name is a key part of that legacy

Archie Griffin’s legacy isn’t just about his individual accomplishments—it’s also about what he represents in the broader scope of Ohio State football. He’s a living reminder of the tradition of excellence that the Buckeyes strive for year after year. He’s a symbol of what it means to be a part of the Ohio State family—to be committed to the team, to give everything you have on the field, and to honor the program both during your time in Columbus and after you leave.

Having a third generation of Griffins play for Ohio State is a powerful symbol of that continuity and commitment. It serves as a reminder that Ohio State football is more than just a game—it’s a way of life, passed down from one generation to the next. For future Buckeyes, the Griffin family represents the ideal of what it means to be a part of this storied program.

The idea of a third-generation player donning the scarlet and gray is also a testament to the long-term stability and greatness of Ohio State football. In an era where the landscape of college football is constantly shifting, with coaching changes and conference realignment making headlines regularly, Ohio State has remained a beacon of consistency and success. The Griffins’ continued connection to the program shows that the foundation of Ohio State football is as strong as ever.

As the 2025 football season gets underway, all eyes will be on Ohio Stadium to see how the newest Griffin handles the pressure of wearing the Scarlet and Gray. It’s a unique responsibility to be a part of such a revered family legacy, but it’s also an opportunity to build one’s own legacy.

Archie Griffin is confident that his grandson will not only rise to the occasion but also make a lasting impact at Ohio State. While Archie’s legacy will never fade, his grandson will have the opportunity to carve out his own path, perhaps even following in the footsteps of his legendary grandfather.

“Whatever he does, I’m proud of him,” said Archie. “But I know one thing—he’ll be doing it the right way. He’ll give it his all, just like everyone who’s worn that jersey before him. That’s what it’s all about.”

For Ohio State fans, the arrival of a third-generation Griffin is more than just an exciting development—it’s a story that continues to unfold. The legend of Archie Griffin will live on not just through his record-breaking feats, but through the young men and women who will come to know his name and legacy for generations to come.

The Buckeyes’ journey is far from over, and with the Griffins continuing to play a part in Ohio State football, the future looks as bright as ever. Scarlet and Gray, indeed, runs deep in the Griffin family blood.