Ohio State Buckeyes football

The Rich History of the Ohio State Buckeyes Football Team

Imagine a storied tradition that has spanned over a century, with victories and defeats, triumphs and heartbreaks, all woven into the fabric of American college football history. The Ohio State Buckeyes have been at the forefront of this narrative since 1890, when they first took to the field against the University of Wooster. This team has not only won eight national championships but also holds a place in the hearts and minds of millions as one of the most successful programs in college football.

From Early Struggles to National Dominance

The early years of Ohio State’s football program were marked by challenges. It wasn’t until 1890 that they managed to secure their first game against Wooster, and even then, the road was far from smooth. However, with coaches like John Eckstorm and Lynn W. St. John, the team began to flourish. In 1916, Chic Harley, a fan favorite who attended Ohio State from East High in Columbus, led the Buckeyes to their first Big Ten championship. His legacy is still celebrated today.

The Golden Era and Beyond

The golden era of Ohio State football began with Coach Paul Brown, who took over in 1941. He changed the team’s offensive style, leading them to their first national championship in 1942 despite losing 22 players to military service. The program continued its rise under Woody Hayes, who led Ohio State to four national championships, including two shared titles. Hayes’ aggressive style often alienated players but also brought the team unparalleled success.

However, Hayes faced criticism for his tactics and was eventually fired in 1978 after a controversial incident during the Gator Bowl. His successor, Earle Bruce, inherited a strong team but struggled to maintain that momentum. Bruce’s program produced many notable players like Keith Byars and Cris Carter, but he faced controversy when he was unexpectedly fired by Ohio State president Edward Jennings in 1987.

John Cooper took over as head coach in 1987 and led the Buckeyes to several Big Ten championships. However, his tenure was marked by a pattern of failure against Michigan, leading to his eventual firing in 2001. The program then experienced a series of ups and downs under Jim Tressel, who won four national championships but also faced NCAA sanctions due to violations.

Urban Meyer’s Impact

Urban Meyer, hired in November 2011, led the Buckeyes to a perfect start in his first year and claimed the national championship in 2014. However, he faced disciplinary action for mishandling domestic violence allegations against then-wide receivers coach Zach Smith. Despite this setback, Meyer’s teams continued to perform well until his firing in 2018.

Urban Meyer was eventually replaced by co-offensive coordinator Ryan Day, who led the Buckeyes to a perfect 13-0 record and a national championship in 2021. However, the team’s success was short-lived as they suffered losses in subsequent seasons, including a disappointing defeat to Iowa.

Key Players and Awards

The Ohio State Buckeyes have produced numerous standout players who have gone on to win prestigious awards. Some notable recipients include:

• Troy Smith (2006 Heisman Trophy)
• Terrelle Pryor (2011 Rose Bowl MVP)
• Nick Bosa and Joe Bosa (2019 NFL Draft First Round Picks)

The team has also retired the jersey numbers of many of its most successful players, ensuring their legacy lives on. The Buckeyes have won eight national championships from NCAA-designated ‘consensus’ selectors, including six from wire-service polls.

Notable Rivalries and Achievements

The Ohio State Buckeyes are known for their fierce rivalries, particularly with the University of Michigan. The rivalry has seen many memorable moments, including Woody Hayes’ use of ‘super sophomores’ in the 1970s. Despite these successes, the team’s streak against Michigan came to an end in 2021.

The Buckeyes have also faced challenges off the field, such as NCAA sanctions and scandals involving player behavior. However, they continue to be a dominant force in college football, with a rich history that spans over a century of tradition and excellence.

The Ohio State Buckeyes have not only left an indelible mark on college football but continue to inspire future generations of athletes and coaches. Their legacy is a testament to the power of perseverance, dedication, and unwavering commitment to excellence.