The Legacy of Ohio State Football in National Championships

The Ohio State Buckeyes football team has long been a powerhouse in college football, with a history rich in triumphs and memorable moments, particularly when it comes to national championships. From the early days of the sport to the modern era of the College Football Playoff, Ohio State has claimed its place among the elite, securing eight national titles recognized by various selectors over the years.

The Early Years: 1942

The journey of Ohio State's national championship accolades began in 1942, a year marked by the challenges of World War II. Under the leadership of Coach Paul Brown, the Buckeyes managed to compile a 9-1 record. Their sole loss came against No. 6 Wisconsin, but the team's resilience, especially after losing many players to the war effort, was commendable. They clinched the national championship title based on the Associated Press (AP) poll, marking Ohio State's first taste of national glory.

The Woody Hayes Era: 1954, 1957, 1961, 1968, 1970

The name Woody Hayes is synonymous with Ohio State football, and his tenure from 1951 to 1978 saw the Buckeyes achieve five national championships:

• 1954: Ohio State finished with a perfect 10-0 record, earning them a unanimous national championship. Howard "Hopalong" Cassady, a standout player from this team, also won the Heisman Trophy, contributing to the lore of this championship season.

• 1957: Despite a 9-1 record, Ohio State was declared co-national champions by the Football Writers Association of America (FWAA) and United Press International (UPI), sharing the title with Auburn. This was one of the earliest examples of the split national championship phenomenon in college football.

• 1961: The Buckeyes went undefeated at 8-0-1, but the Faculty Council controversially declined a Rose Bowl invitation, leading to public outcry. Nonetheless, Ohio State was awarded the national championship by the FWAA, although Alabama was favored by other selectors.

• 1968: This season was one of the most memorable under Hayes, with the team going 10-0, including a crushing victory over Michigan and a Rose Bowl win against USC. The "super sophomores" from this class would be pivotal in future successes.

• 1970: Despite a controversial loss in the Rose Bowl, Ohio State was recognized as a co-national champion by the National Football Foundation (NFF), sharing the title with Texas. This period under Hayes not only cemented Ohio State's status but also elevated Hayes' reputation as one of the greatest coaches in college football history.

The Modern Era: 2002 and 2014

• 2002: The beginning of the new millennium brought Ohio State back to the forefront with a dramatic national championship under Coach Jim Tressel. The Buckeyes finished the season 14-0, including a legendary double-overtime victory over Miami in the Fiesta Bowl, which was the BCS National Championship Game. This game is often cited as one of the greatest in college football history due to its excitement and the stakes involved.

• 2014: The inaugural year of the College Football Playoff system saw Ohio State clinch another title. Despite losing their starting quarterback early in the season, third-string quarterback Cardale Jones led the Buckeyes to victories over Alabama in the Sugar Bowl semifinal and Oregon in the national championship, securing a 42-20 win. This championship was particularly sweet, showcasing the depth and resilience of the Ohio State program.

Playoff Appearances and Recent History

Since the introduction of the College Football Playoff, Ohio State has been a frequent participant, reflecting their continued dominance in college football:

• Ohio State has appeared in six College Football Playoffs, with three appearances in the national championship game. This consistency in the playoff era underscores their status as perennial contenders.

• The Buckeyes have faced stiff competition, including multiple encounters with Clemson and Alabama, showing their capability to compete against the best teams in college football year after year.

Cultural Impact and Legacy

The national championships are not just about the games; they are about the cultural impact on Ohio State's community and college football at large:

• Heisman Trophy Winners: Ohio State has produced seven Heisman Trophy winners, with Archie Griffin uniquely winning it twice, adding to the prestige of the program.

• Fan Base and Tradition: The Buckeyes' success has fostered one of the most passionate fan bases in college sports. The "Script Ohio" formation by the marching band, the legendary battles with Michigan, and the iconic Ohio Stadium (dubbed "The Horseshoe") all contribute to a rich tradition that resonates with fans and alumni worldwide.

Challenges and Controversies

Not every season has led to a championship, and Ohio State has had its share of controversies:

• Vacated Wins: In 2010, Ohio State vacated all 12 of its victories due to NCAA violations, which included the Big Ten championship, affecting their official record but not diminishing the on-field achievements or the memories of those games.

• Split Titles: The concept of split national championships, where different polls name different teams as champions, has sometimes led to debates over the legitimacy of Ohio State's titles, particularly in the pre-BCS and BCS eras.

Looking Forward

As of 2025, Ohio State continues to be a dominant force, with eyes set on adding to their championship tally. The introduction of a 12-team playoff format could potentially offer more opportunities for the Buckeyes to showcase their talent on a national stage, although it also means tougher competition.

The history of Ohio State's national championships is a testament to the program's enduring excellence, strategic coaching, and the relentless spirit of its players. Each title adds to the narrative of Ohio State as not just competitors in the game but as shapers of college football culture, leaving a legacy that future generations of Buckeyes will strive to uphold and expand upon.

The Buckeyes kick off against Notre Dame in the National Championship tonight at 7:45PM.