By a lifelong Buckeye fan reliving the the glory days of Ohio State football
Introduction: A Legacy of Legends and Unforgettable Moments
Talk about Ohio State football, and you’re instantly transported to a world brimming with legendary figures, emotional victories, and a history that’s as rich as it is contentious. The Buckeyes have produced some of college football’s most iconic players and moments, spawning passionate debates about the Ohio State football Mount Rushmore, the best four Buckeye players ever, and the ranking of Ohio State quarterbacks. (sorry, got distracted). Today, let’s dive deep into a nostalgic yet analytical journey — constructing the ultimate “That Guy Was a Buckeye?” team, spotlighting not only household names but also underrated Ohio State players and forgotten Ohio State legends who deserve their place in the spotlight.
The Ohio State Legends Mount Rushmore: Top 4 Ohio State Players
When fans talk about the Ohio State legends Mt Rushmore, four names repeatedly surface, each representing a different era but all embodying Buckeye greatness:
Archie Griffin – The only two-time Heisman Trophy winner in college football history, Griffin’s name is synonymous with OSU greatness. His durability, vision, and leadership cement him as the Archie Griffin greatest college player debate favorite. Will anyone ever win two Heismans again? It’s hard to imagine. Eddie George – The 1995 Heisman winner, George’s 1995 season was a masterclass in power running and consistency. His best Ohio State running back seasons remain a benchmark, and his Eddie George highlights Ohio State tape is a must-watch for any Buckeye fan. Orlando Pace – Often hailed as the most dominant college offensive lineman, Pace’s pancake blocks were a thing of beauty. He arguably ranks among the best Ohio State offensive linemen ever, protecting quarterbacks and carving lanes for backs with equal ease. Chris Spielman – The heart and soul of the Buckeye defense in the 1980s, Spielman was a linebacker legend and one of the toughest Ohio State players to ever wear the scarlet and gray. His leadership and tenacity still resonate, echoed in his inspiring Chris Spielman speech given long after his playing days.Of course, this list www.collegefootballpoll.com sparks debate — what about Jim Parker, Howard “Hopalong” Cassady, or even more recent stars? But as a core, these four represent the epitome of Ohio State legends across offense and defense.
Quarterback Showdown: Troy Smith vs. Justin Fields and Beyond
Arguably the most hotly debated topic among Buckeye fans is the best Ohio State quarterback ever. The spotlight often zeroes in on two recent legends: Troy Smith vs Justin Fields. So, who holds the crown?
Is Troy Smith the Best OSU QB?
Troy Smith’s 2006 Heisman-winning campaign remains iconic — he was the ultimate clutch Ohio State quarterback, especially in high-pressure games like those against Michigan. His poise and leadership led the Buckeyes to a national championship appearance in 2007, and his ability to own Michigan in those rivalry games is still celebrated (remember the Troy Smith vs Michigan performances?).
Justin Fields: The Modern Marvel
Fields brought an electrifying dynamic to the position with his dual-threat capabilities, redefining what it means to be the best Ohio State quarterback for one game or an entire season. His arm strength, mobility, and clutch moments against top teams, including Michigan, make him a strong contender for the title of best QB in program history.
Other Notables in the Ranking Ohio State Quarterbacks Conversation
- Craig Krenzel (2002): The steady hand who led the Buckeyes to their 2002 national championship, often overlooked in QB debates but pivotal nonetheless. Art Schlichter: A gifted passer from the early 1980s whose legacy is complicated but undeniably talented. J.T. Barrett and Dwayne Haskins: Recent stars who put up incredible statistics and memorable moments.
Ultimately, the debate might never be settled, but the ranking Ohio State quarterbacks is a testament to the depth of talent that has passed through Columbus.
actually,The Dream Team Offense & Best Ohio State Offensive Players
Putting together an Ohio State all time offense is no easy task considering the program’s rich history of offensive firepower. But if we’re building the ultimate Ohio State dream team offense, these players are non-negotiable:
Running Backs: Eddie George vs. Ezekiel Elliott
The eternal question: Ezekiel Elliott vs Eddie George. Both backs had dominant college careers, but their styles differed:
- Eddie George: Power and grit defined his 1995 Heisman year. His ability to grind out tough yards and finish strong games put him in the best Ohio State running back conversation. Elliott: A more explosive and versatile back, Elliott’s stats and highlights show a back with speed, vision, and the ability to break big runs.
Statistically, the Elliott vs George stats battle is close, but George’s Heisman and leadership give him a slight edge in many fans’ minds.
Offensive Line: The Era of Orlando Pace
Without Pace, the offense wouldn’t have flourished as it did . His pancake blocks helped some of the best Ohio State offensive players thrive. Other notable linemen include Jim Parker and more recent stars who dominated the trenches.
Quarterback & Receivers
For quarterback, depending on the era, names like Troy Smith, Craig Krenzel, and Justin Fields come to mind. On the receiving end, players like Beckett, Michael Jenkins, and Terry McLaurin helped define their teams.
Underrated and Forgotten Buckeyes Who Deserve More Credit
Not every Buckeye legend gets the spotlight they deserve. Some Ohio State players who deserve more credit and are among the most underrated Buckeyes include:
- Beanie Wells: Remember his devastating runs against Michigan? His power game was unmatched in the late 2000s. Chris Spielman: Beyond his fame, his relentless play and leadership at linebacker set a standard for toughness. Other linebacker legends: Players like James Laurinaitis and A.J. Hawk who anchored OSU defenses with intensity.
These players may not always headline highlight reels, but their contributions shaped championship-caliber teams.
Jim Tressel Era: The Architect of Modern Buckeye Success
The Tressel era (2001–2010) brought Ohio State back to the pinnacle of college football, highlighted by the 2002 national championship team. Some of the best players of the Tressel era include:
- Craig Krenzel: The calm and steady QB guiding the 2002 championship squad. Beanie Wells and Troy Smith: Offensive weapons who thrived in Tressel’s system. Linebackers and defensive stalwarts: Who made OSU defenses some of the toughest in the nation.
Remember the 2002 Fiesta Bowl facts — a 31-24 victory over Miami that cemented Ohio State’s place atop college football. The Ohio State luckeyes 2002 were a team defined by clutch plays, disciplined execution, and coaching brilliance.
Ohio State vs Michigan: Rivalry and Dominance
Few rivalries match the intensity of OSU vs Michigan, and over the decades, certain players have come to symbolize Buckeye dominance in this battle.
- Troy Smith vs Michigan: His performances against the Wolverines were legendary, often rising to the occasion when the stakes were highest. Beanie Wells vs Michigan: Known for punishing runs that wore down Michigan’s defense. Clutch Ohio State quarterbacks: Whether it was Krenzel, Smith, or Fields, the Buckeye QB has often been the difference-maker in these contests.
These games often define legacies, and owning Michigan remains a badge of honor for any Buckeye player.
Conclusion: Celebrating the Heart and Soul of Buckeye Football
Ohio State football is more than a program — it’s a tradition steeped in excellence, resilience, and passion. From the Ohio State Heisman winners like Archie Griffin and Eddie George to the underrated Ohio State players who quietly carried the torch, the Buckeyes have a lineage that’s impossible to ignore.
Ranking Ohio State legends, comparing players across eras, and debating the all-time teams is a fan’s delight, but the true magic lies in the stories of grit, glory, and unforgettable moments that bind us all. Whether you swear by the Ohio State dream team offense or champion the toughest Ohio State players, the Buckeye legacy continues to grow — one game, one player, one iconic tackle or touchdown at a time.
So next time someone says, “That guy was a Buckeye?” you’ll know exactly who they mean.
Go Bucks!