The Ohio State Buckeyes have a storied history in college football, marked by numerous championships, legendary players, and significant contributions to the sport. As of January 2025, the Buckeyes have secured eight national championships, with their most recent title in 2014.
Early Years and Formation
Ohio State University established its football program in 1890. The team, known as the Buckeyes, quickly became a formidable force in college football. In the early 20th century, the Buckeyes were members of the Ohio Athletic Conference (OAC), where they won two championships. In 1912, Ohio State joined the Big Ten Conference, solidifying its position in major college football.
National Championships
Ohio State has claimed eight national championships, recognized by NCAA-designated “consensus” selectors. These titles are:
- 1942: Under head coach Paul Brown, the Buckeyes finished the season with a 9–1 record, securing the national title.
- 1954: Coached by Woody Hayes, Ohio State achieved a perfect 10–0 season, culminating in a national championship.
- 1957: The Buckeyes, led by Woody Hayes, finished the season 9–1, earning the national title.
- 1961: Under Woody Hayes, Ohio State had an 8–0–1 record, securing the national championship.
- 1968: Coached by Woody Hayes, the Buckeyes completed a perfect 10–0 season, winning the national title.
- 1970: Ohio State, under Woody Hayes, finished the season 9–1, earning a share of the national championship.
- 2002: Coached by Jim Tressel, the Buckeyes achieved a 14–0 record, culminating in a national championship.
- 2014: Under Urban Meyer, Ohio State finished the season 14–1, securing the national title.
College Football Playoff (CFP) Era
The College Football Playoff system, introduced in 2014, has added a new dimension to college football championships. Ohio State has been a significant participant in this era:
- 2014: The Buckeyes secured the inaugural CFP National Championship, defeating Oregon 42–20.
- 2019: Ohio State reached the CFP semifinals but was defeated by Clemson.
- 2020: The Buckeyes advanced to the CFP National Championship but were defeated by Alabama.
- 2024: Ohio State reached the CFP National Championship but was defeated by Alabama.
- 2025: The Buckeyes are set to face Notre Dame in the CFP National Championship on January 20, 2025, at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia. citeturn0search4
Coaching Legacy
Ohio State’s success is closely tied to its coaching history:
- Woody Hayes (1951–1978): Hayes is the winningest coach in Ohio State history, leading the team to five national championships and numerous Big Ten titles.
- Jim Tressel (2001–2010): Tressel guided the Buckeyes to a national championship in 2002 and multiple Big Ten championships.
- Urban Meyer (2012–2018): Meyer led Ohio State to a national championship in 2014 and revitalized the program with multiple Big Ten titles.
- Ryan Day (2019–present): Day has continued the Buckeyes’ success, leading them to the CFP National Championship in 2020 and 2024, and is set to compete for another title in 2025.
Notable Players
Ohio State has produced numerous players who have left a significant mark on college football and the NFL:
- Archie Griffin: The only two-time winner of the Heisman Trophy (1974, 1975), Griffin is considered one of the greatest running backs in college football history.
- Chris Spielman: A standout linebacker in the 1980s, Spielman was known for his leadership and defensive prowess.
- Eddie George: The 1995 Heisman Trophy winner, George was a dominant running back who led Ohio State to a national championship appearance in 1996.
- Troy Smith: The 2006 Heisman Trophy winner, Smith was a dual-threat quarterback who led the Buckeyes to a national championship game in 2007.
- Chase Young: A defensive end known for his pass-rushing ability, Young was a consensus All-American and a top NFL draft pick.
Rivalries and Traditions
Ohio State’s rivalry with the Michigan Wolverines is one of the most storied in college football. The annual “Game” is a highlight of the season, often determining the Big Ten champion and impacting national championship implications.
The Buckeyes also have a rich tradition of marching bands, fight songs, and the “Script Ohio” formation, which are integral to the game-day experience.
Recent Developments
In the 2024 season, Ohio State reached the CFP National Championship but was defeated by Alabama. Looking ahead, the Buckeyes are set to face Notre Dame in the 2025 CFP National Championship on January 20, 2025, at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia. citeturn0search4
The 2024 season also marked the first year of the expanded 12-team College Football Playoff system, which has been deemed a success despite a few wrinkles. citeturn0news10
Ohio State’s consistent performance in the CFP era underscores the program’s
