Ohio State Football is a name that resonates with passion, tradition, and a rich history of success. The Ohio State Buckeyes football team, representing the Ohio State University in the East Division of the Big Ten Conference, has been a dominant force in college football since its inception in 1890.
This article will take you on a journey through the illustrious history of Ohio State Football, highlighting its legendary coaches, iconic moments, enduring traditions, and the impact it has had on the university and its fans.
The History of Ohio State Football
The Ohio State Buckeyes football team, representing Ohio State University, has a rich history dating back to its first season in 1890. The team competes as part of the NCAA Division I Football Bowl Subdivision in the Big Ten Conference East Division.
The team was established in 1890, with early attempts at forming a team in 1886 and 1887. The first OSU game occurred on the Ohio Wesleyan University campus in Delaware on May 3, 1890.
George Cole, an undergraduate, and Alexander S. Lilley are credited with introducing the sport to the campus.
The Buckeyes have claimed eight national championships throughout history, with the titles coming in 1942, 1954, 1957, 1961, 1968, 1970, 2002, and 2014.
The team’s most recent national championship was won during the inaugural year of the College Football Playoff in 2014.
The team has had several notable coaches and players throughout its history. Wes Fesler became head coach in 1947, and despite a rough start, the team improved greatly in 1948 and 1949, largely due to the play of sophomore Vic Janowicz.
Other notable figures include Woody Hayes, who coached the team to several national championships, and players like Les Horvath, Vic Janowicz, Hopalong Cassady, Archie Griffin, and Eddie George, who were Heisman Trophy winners.
The Buckeyes have established themselves as regular contenders in the college football playoffs in recent years. Of the nine playoff seasons, Ohio State has made appearances in five, including three out of the last four.
The Buckeyes have a strong rivalry with several teams, most notably the University of Michigan. These games are often high-stakes, with outcomes influencing conference titles and national championship runs.
The team plays its home games at Ohio Stadium, also known as the Horseshoe, which was built in 1922 and has a capacity of 102,780.
The Buckeyes’ all-time record as of 2023 is 964–331–53.
As we dive deeper into the season, it’s clear that the Ohio State football team is making a strong case for themselves in discussions analyzing the best college football teams of the season so far.
Legendary Coaches: The Masterminds Behind Ohio State’s Success
Many legendary coaches have shaped Ohio State University’s football program, but three stand out for their significant contributions: Woody Hayes, Jim Tressel, and Urban Meyer.
Woody Hayes
Woody Hayes served as the head coach of Ohio State University from 1951 to 1978. During his tenure, Hayes’ teams were recognized five times by NCAA consensus selectors as national champions (1954, 1957, 1961, 1968, 1970).
His Buckeye teams captured 13 Big Ten Conference titles and amassed a record of 205–61–10. Hayes was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame as a coach in 1983
Hayes was known for his passion for education and his players’ high graduation rate and success on the football field.
Jim Tressel
Jim Tressel served as the head coach of the Ohio State Buckeyes from 2001 until 2010. During his tenure, Tressel’s teams competed in three BCS National Championship Games, and his 2002 squad won a national title, achieving the first 14–0 season record in major college football since the 1897 Penn Quakers.
Tressel finished his career at Ohio State with an overall record of 94–22, including six Big Ten Conference championships, a 5–4 bowl record, a 4–3 mark in BCS bowl games, and a 9–1 record against the arch-rival Michigan Wolverines.
Urban Meyer
Urban Meyer served as the head coach of the Ohio State Buckeyes from 2012 to 2018. He led the Buckeyes to an impressive winning streak in his first 24 games.
In 2014, despite losing two quarterbacks to season-ending injuries, Meyer directed Ohio State to an improbable national championship in the first College Football Playoff.
Meyer’s overall record at Ohio State was 83–9, giving him the highest winning percentage of all Buckeye coaches.
These three coaches have left an indelible mark on Ohio State’s football program, contributing to its reputation as one of the top programs in college football history.
Their leadership, strategic acumen, and dedication to their players’ success on and off the field have set a high standard for future coaches at Ohio State.
Iconic Moments and Rivalries: The Defining Stories of Ohio State Football
The Ohio State Buckeyes football team has a rich history of iconic moments and intense rivalries. The team, which first took the field in 1890, has won eight national championships and has produced several Heisman Trophy winners.
One of the most iconic moments in Ohio State football history is the 2002 National Championship game. The Buckeyes, underdogs against the Miami Hurricanes, secured a thrilling 31-24 victory in double overtime.
Another memorable moment is the “Holy Buckeye” play in 2002, where quarterback Craig Krenzel threw a 37-yard pass to wide receiver Michael Jenkins on a 4th-and-1 situation, leading to a touchdown that helped the Buckeyes secure a win against Purdue.
The Buckeyes’ rivalry with the Michigan Wolverines, often called “The Game,” is one of the most intense in college football. The rivalry began in 1897 and has been marked by memorable moments and games that often determine the Big Ten Conference title.
The rivalry has been so intense that it has even led to sign-stealing accusations, further fueling the antagonism between the two teams.
Other notable rivalries include those with Illinois and Penn State, with the games against these teams often having significant implications for the Buckeyes’ season.
During the last game, a moment that sparked questions among fans was when the officials issued a sideline warning. This incident brings up an important question: what is a sideline warning in college football, and how can it affect the game’s flow?
The Enduring Traditions and Passion of Ohio State Football Fans
Ohio State football fans are known for their enduring traditions and passionate support for their team. This passion is often described as unparalleled, with fans willing to live vicariously through their football team and feeling a strong sense of family and community.
One of the most enduring traditions is the support of the Block “O” student sections in Ohio Stadium, one of the longest-enduring football traditions at Ohio State University.
The Block “O” was founded in 1938 and is known for their card and cape stunts, chants, and cheers that can be heard throughout the stadium on game days.
Other notable traditions include the “O-H-I-O” cheer, where each side of the stadium is responsible for a letter as Buckeyes fans spell out the name of their state.
The Ohio State marching band also spells out a script Ohio and a fourth-year sousaphone player dots the ‘i’ pregame or at halftime, a tradition known as “Script Ohio”.
Ohio State fans are also known for their dedication to the team, often going above and beyond the call of duty.
For example, about 70 – 90,000 fans pay to see a glorified scrimmage every spring and walk back to their vehicles discussing depth charts and breakout players.
The passion of Ohio State fans indirectly and directly helps pay for stadiums, amenities, and athletic facilities. It drives television ratings and creates the need for NIL deals to entice players to come to or stay in Columbus.
Ohio State fans are also recognized for their traveling support. According to a survey of 68 former FBS football players from 2001-2021 performed by Goodyear and the Players’ Tribune, Ohio State was identified as having the fans that travel the best for away and neutral site games.
Legendary Players on Ohio State Football
Ohio State Football has a rich history of producing legendary players who have left an indelible mark on the sport. Here are some of the most notable players in the history of Ohio State Football:
- Archie Griffin: Griffin is the only player in college football history to win two Heisman Trophies, which he secured in 1974 and ’75. His dazzling runs led Ohio State to four straight Big Ten titles and four consecutive Rose Bowl appearances.
- Eddie George: George was a three-time All-Big Ten and first-team All-American. He was one of the most impressive running backs in Ohio State history.
- Orlando Pace: Considered by many to be the best blocker in Ohio State history and one of the best in NFL history, Pace was one of the leading vote-getters for the Heisman Trophy, finishing 4th in the voting in 1996.
- Cris Carter: Known for his flashy but polished playing style, Carter’s name will forever be synonymous with excellence in the annals of Ohio State football.
- Chic Harley: Harley was among the first players to bring Ohio State football to the forefront. He was the school’s first consensus All-American and an early inductee into the College Football Hall of Fame.
- Les Horvath: Horvath was the first Ohio State football player to win the prestigious Heisman Trophy, which he took home in 1944.
- Chris Spielman: Spielman was a tackling machine who powered a strong Ohio State defense during the mid-to-late 80s. He registered an overwhelming 546 tackles throughout his Ohio State career, including an all-time best 283 solo tackles.
- Jack Tatum: Tatum was a key player in the Ohio State defense and was chosen as one of the Ohio State Football All-Century Team captains.
- Troy Smith: Smith was the nation’s top player, throwing for 2,542 yards with 30 TDs and running for 576 with seven scores.
- Howard “Hopalong” Cassidy: Cassidy was a standout player for Ohio State and was known for his exceptional skills on the field.
These players have not only contributed to the success of Ohio State Football but have also left a lasting legacy in the sport of college football.
The Intense Rivalries that Define Ohio State Football
The intense rivalries defining Ohio State Football are essential to the team’s history and identity.
The most notable rivalry is with the University of Michigan, often called “The Game.” This rivalry dates back to 1897 and has been marked by memorable moments and games that often determine the Big Ten Conference title.
The Ohio State-Michigan rivalry is considered one of the greatest in college football, with both teams being among the most successful in NCAA Division I football.
Another significant rivalry for Ohio State is with Penn State. Although not as storied as the Michigan rivalry, the games against Penn State have been highly competitive and have had implications for conference standings and national rankings.
Additionally, Ohio State has a notable rivalry with Michigan State, as the Spartans have ruined Ohio State’s shot at playing for a national championship twice in the last 10 years.
These rivalries contribute to the excitement and passion surrounding Ohio State Football and serve as a testament to the team’s success and prominence in college football history.
Ohio State Football’s Triumphs in Championship Seasons
Ohio State Football has a rich history of triumphs in championship seasons, with the team claiming eight national titles. These championship seasons were in 1942, 1954, 1957, 1961, 1968, 1970, 2002, and 2014.
The 1942 season marked the first national championship for Ohio State under Coach Paul Brown. Despite losing to the Wisconsin Badgers, the Buckeyes rebounded with several wins, including a victory against the Iowa Seahawks that clinched the national title.
In 1954, under Coach Woody Hayes, Ohio State achieved a perfect record and won the national championship. The team included outstanding players like Howard “Hopalong” Cassady and Robert Watkins on offense and Jim Parker on defense.
The 1961 season saw the Buckeyes roll to their tenth Big Ten Championship and fourth National Championship, scoring an average of more than 30 points per Big Ten game. The team was led by three running backs – Matt Snell, Bob Ferguson, and Paul Warfield.
The 2002 season was particularly memorable as the Buckeyes, under Coach Jim Tressel, won their first national championship game in the brief history of the Bowl Championship Series (BCS). They beat the heavily favored No. 1 Miami in a thrilling 31-24 double-overtime finish.
The most recent national championship was in 2014 under Coach Urban Meyer. The Buckeyes earned their spot in the College Football Playoff by delivering a 59-0 victory over the 11th-ranked Wisconsin in the Big Ten championship.
They defeated the top-ranked Alabama 42-35 and overpowered the second-ranked Oregon 42-20, clinching the title in the first-ever College Football Playoff.
In addition to these national championships, Ohio State has captured 41 conference and 10 division championships and compiled 10 undefeated seasons.
The team’s success in these championship seasons has solidified its status as a dominant force in college football.
There’s no denying the electric atmosphere that surrounds Ohio State football, making it a staple on any list of the best colleges for football fans. The passion, the tradition, and the sheer intensity of the games are unmatched.
Navigating the Modern Era of Ohio State Football
The modern era of Ohio State Football has seen significant changes in the coaching staff, particularly under the leadership of Head Coach Ryan Day.
In 2023, Brian Hartline was promoted to Offensive Coordinator, a move widely expected following Kevin Wilson’s departure to become the head coach at Tulsa.
Hartline, who has been with Ohio State since 2017, has been successful as the wide receivers coach, with five Buckeyes posting 1,000-yard receiving seasons and five selected in the NFL Draft under his guidance.
Keenan Bailey was promoted to the position of tight ends coach. Bailey joined the Ohio State coaching staff in 2016 and has steadily risen through the ranks, most recently holding the position of senior advisor to the head coach.
Tony Alford, who has recruited and developed six 1,000-yard running backs in his eight-year tenure at Ohio State, continues to serve as Ohio State’s assistant head coach for offense and running backs coach.
Corey Dennis, who has been with Ohio State for the past eight seasons, continues in his fourth year as quarterbacks coach.
On the defensive side, there were significant changes in 2022. Kerry Coombs, the Defensive Coordinator, left the team, and Matt Barnes was promoted from defensive backs coach to defensive play-caller.
However, the team’s defensive performance did not improve significantly, leading to further changes.
Perry Eliano was brought in to coach safeties, and Tim Walton, a former Buckeye and experienced coach, was hired as the cornerbacks coach.
Despite these changes, there have been criticisms of the coaching staff’s performance in big games, with some suggesting that the team has often appeared unprepared and out-coached.
However, it’s important to note that these criticisms are part of the high expectations that come with a program as successful as Ohio State Football.
A Game Day Experience Through Ohio State Football
Experiencing a game day at Ohio State University is a unique and exciting event that encompasses various aspects, including tailgating and pre-game traditions, fan interactions and spirit, and the atmosphere at Ohio Stadium.
Tailgating and Pre-Game Traditions
Tailgating is a significant part of the game day experience at Ohio State. Parking lots and garages open at 5 a.m. on game days, and fans can enjoy several options for tailgating and pre-game activities.
For those who prefer not to tailgate but still want to join the pre-game festivities, the Varsity Club Restaurant & Bar, a Columbus staple for over 50 years, hosts a large tailgate party.
Another pre-game tradition is the Skull Session, where the Ohio State band marches onto the field and performs a preview of their pregame and halftime shows.
The football team also entered the arena, and the head coach and players spoke to the audience before heading into the stadium.
Fan Interactions and Spirit
Ohio State fans are known for their passion and loyalty. However, there have been concerns about the atmosphere at Ohio Stadium, with some suggesting that the game-day experience and home-field advantage are not as strong as they used to be.
Despite these concerns, the Ohio State-Michigan rivalry remains intense, with fans displaying strong emotions and spirit on both sides.
Ohio Stadium Atmosphere
Ohio Stadium, known as ‘The Shoe,’ is one of the most recognizable landmarks in college athletics. With a seating capacity of approximately 103,000, it is one of the largest stadiums in the country.
The closeness of the seating provides a definite home-field advantage for the Buckeyes, allowing almost all fans an unobstructed view of the game.
However, some have argued that the atmosphere at Ohio Stadium has become less intimidating over the years due to factors such as high ticket prices and the addition of luxury seating.
Despite these criticisms, the Ohio Stadium crowd has been described as electric, particularly during key games. The student section remains loud and engaged, contributing to the overall atmosphere.
Impact on Ohio State University
The Ohio State University’s football program significantly impacts the university and the state of Ohio. The university generates $19.6 billion in economic impact for the state of Ohio, supporting 116,810 direct and indirect jobs.
The football program contributes to this impact by attracting students, alumni, and fans, fostering a sense of community and school spirit. The football team’s success also brings prestige to the university, which can lead to increased enrollment, research funding, and donations.
Additionally, the economic impact of Ohio State Football extends to local businesses, as game days generate revenue for restaurants, hotels, and other establishments in the area.
Overall, Ohio State Football plays a significant role in the university’s impact on the state of Ohio and the broader region.
The Future Prospects and Aspirations of Ohio State Football
The future prospects and aspirations of Ohio State Football are promising, with a strong focus on recruiting top talent, maintaining a high-performance coaching staff, and continuing their tradition of success.
Recruiting is a key aspect of Ohio State’s future. The Buckeyes are pursuing top prospects, including four-star Florida Gators commit Amaris Williams, five-star offensive tackle Jackson Cantwell, and 2026 four-star offensive tackle Maxwell Riley.
They are also in the running for 2024 Ohio State offensive line target Gabe VanSickle, who recently de-committed from Northwestern. Additionally, Ohio State has secured commitments from several top prospects, including five-star commit Jeremiah Smith.
The coaching staff, led by Head Coach Ryan Day, is another crucial component of Ohio State’s future. The staff includes Brian Hartline as Offensive Coordinator, Jim Knowles as Defensive Coordinator, and other experienced coaches.
The team’s coaching staff has seen some changes, with Hartline being promoted to offensive coordinator in early 2023.
These changes are part of Head Coach Ryan Day’s strategy to keep the team competitive and contending for national championships.
As for aspirations, Ohio State Football has three main goals: to beat their northern rivals, win the Big Ten championship, and win the national championship.
These goals are pursued in a strong community spirit, with the Ohio State Buckeyes football program having a global reach and a passionate fan base.
In terms of performance, Ohio State’s defense has shown significant improvement under Jim Knowles’ leadership, ranking third in the nation in points allowed per game and seventh in yards allowed per game.
The team’s total offense has also performed well, ranking among the top three nationally in the past four years.
Conclusion
Ohio State Football is more than just a team; it’s a legacy of excellence, a community of passionate fans, and a symbol of the Ohio State University’s spirit.
As we look back on its rich history and look forward to its promising future, one thing is clear: Ohio State Football embodies the passion, tradition, and excellence that define the sport of college football.
FAQs on Ohio State Football
When was Ohio State’s first football game?
Ohio State’s first football game was on May 3, 1890.
How many national championships has Ohio State won?
Ohio State has won eight national championships.
Who are Ohio State’s biggest rivals?
Ohio State’s biggest rival is the University of Michigan.
What is the capacity of Ohio Stadium?
The capacity of Ohio Stadium is 102,780.
FAQs About the Team
Who is Ohio State’s Current Head Coach?
The current head coach of Ohio State’s football team is Ryan Day. He has held this position since 2019, guiding the Ohio State Buckeyes to a 45-6 record in four seasons (2019-2022).
This includes a 31-2 record against Big Ten Conference competition, back-to-back Big Ten championships in 2019 and 2020, and victories in the Sugar Bowl (2020) and Rose Bowl (2021).
Who Are Some of Ohio State’s Most Famous Players?
Ohio State University has produced numerous famous football players throughout its history. Here are some of the most notable ones:
- Archie Griffin
- Eddie George
- Chic Harley
- Les Horvath
- Chris Spielman
- Orlando Pace
- Cris Carter
- Jack Tatum
- Howard “Hopalong” Cassidy
- Jim Parker
What is Ohio State’s Home-field Advantage Like?
Ohio State’s home-field advantage is significant, with the Ohio Stadium, also known as “The Horseshoe,” providing an intimidating atmosphere for visiting teams.
What is the Buckeye Bullet?
The Buckeye Bullet is a series of electric racing cars developed by Ohio State University students. It’s not directly related to Ohio State Football, but it’s another example of the innovation and excellence associated with Ohio State University.
FAQs About Tickets
How Can I Buy Tickets to an Ohio State Football Game?
You can buy tickets to an Ohio State football game through various platforms, including the Ohio State University’s official athletics website, Ticketmaster, StubHub, SeatGeek, Vivid Seats, Expedia, and TicketSmarter.
Prices may vary depending on the platform, game, and seating section. It’s recommended to check multiple sources to find the best deal and availability for the specific game you’re interested in attending.
How Much Do Ohio State Football Tickets Cost?
The cost of Ohio State football tickets varies depending on the game and the seating zone.
For the 2023 season, individual ticket prices for non-conference games start at $39. For games against Big Ten rivals such as Penn State, Michigan State, Maryland, and Minnesota, ticket prices can range from $59 to $308, depending on the seating zone.
The Ohio State University Department of Athletics offers a stadium price scaling plan with six price zones, providing many options for fans purchasing tickets. Season ticket prices also vary.
For the public, season ticket prices start at $398 for the cheapest seating zone and go up to $944 for the most expensive zone. Faculty and staff receive a discount on season tickets, with prices ranging from $325 to $774.
Student season tickets remain at a flat rate of $34 per game. Starting from the 2023 season, an Ohio Stadium preservation fee of $2 per ticket per game will be added on top of the ticket price.
This fee will be used for ongoing maintenance projects to extend the stadium’s life. Please note that these prices are directly from the Ohio State University’s official announcement and may vary on secondary market platforms like Vivid Seats and SeatGeek.
It’s recommended to check multiple sources to find the best deal and availability for the specific game you’re interested in attending.
Are There Any Student Discounts for Ohio State Football Tickets?
Yes, there are usually student discounts for Ohio State football tickets. Students should check with the university’s ticket office for specific details.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drink to an Ohio State Football Game?
Typically, outside food and drink are not allowed in Ohio Stadium. It’s recommended to check the stadium’s official policies before attending a game.
FAQs About Game Day
What Time Do Ohio State Football Games Typically Start?
Ohio State football games typically start at various times, depending on the schedule. It’s best to check the official schedule on Ohio State University’s athletics website for the most accurate information.
What Should I Wear to an Ohio State Football Game?
Fans attending an Ohio State football game typically wear scarlet and gray, the official colors of the Ohio State University, to show their support for the team.
What is There to Do Before and After an Ohio State Football Game?
Before and after an Ohio State football game, fans can participate in various traditions such as tailgating, the Skull Session, and singing the Ohio State’s alma mater.
Is There Parking Available at Ohio Stadium?
Yes, there is parking available at Ohio Stadium. It’s recommended to arrive early and follow the university’s official parking guidelines.
