Ohio State football boasts one of the richest histories in college sports and is also one of the most dominant teams of the last decade.
From iconic rivalries to unforgettable championship triumphs, the Buckeyes have played in some of the most legendary games in the sport’s history. Here are the top 10 games that have cemented Ohio State’s legacy:
10. 2002 National Championship vs. Miami
The 2002 BCS National Championship game remains one of the greatest upsets in college football history. The Buckeyes, led by head coach Jim Tressel, ended Miami’s 34-game winning streak in a double-overtime thriller. Maurice Clarett’s gritty performance and a controversial pass interference call in overtime helped secure Ohio State’s first national title in over three decades.
9. The 1968 National Championship Season Finale
Ohio State’s dominance over Michigan in 1968 sealed their undefeated season and propelled them to a national championship. The game is infamous for head coach Woody Hayes’ decision to go for two points late in the game, reportedly saying, “Because I couldn’t go for three.”
8. The 1950 “Snow Bowl” vs. Michigan
While this game ended in a loss for Ohio State, the “Snow Bowl” remains legendary for its near-blizzard conditions. Played with 5 inches of snow and strong winds, it showcased the grit of both teams and remains a pivotal chapter in the rivalry’s history.
7. 2014 National Championship vs. Oregon
The first College Football Playoff National Championship game showcased the brilliance of third-string quarterback Cardale Jones and running back Ezekiel Elliott. Ohio State dominated Oregon, cementing their position as the inaugural CFP champions and claiming their eighth national title.
6. 2006 “The Game of the Century” vs. Michigan
In a battle of No. 1 vs. No. 2, this game lived up to its billing. Ohio State edged out Michigan in a high-scoring thriller to secure a spot in the BCS National Championship game. The stakes and intensity of the game solidified its place in college football lore.
5. The 2015 Sugar Bowl vs. Alabama
As part of the inaugural College Football Playoff, Ohio State’s victory over heavily favored Alabama proved their legitimacy. Ezekiel Elliott’s iconic 85-yard touchdown run and an outstanding performance by the defense helped the Buckeyes advance to the championship game.
4. The 2002 “Holy Buckeye” Game vs. Purdue
Ohio State’s miraculous win over Purdue in 2002 is defined by Craig Krenzel’s 37-yard touchdown pass to Michael Jenkins on fourth-and-1 late in the game. The victory kept the Buckeyes’ undefeated season alive en route to their national championship.
3. The 1974 Rose Bowl vs. USC
Ohio State’s emphatic victory over USC in the 1974 Rose Bowl highlighted the dominance of Archie Griffin and the Buckeye defense. The win capped an impressive season and further solidified the program’s status as a powerhouse.
2. The 2002 “The Game” vs. Michigan
The 2002 edition of “The Game” saw Ohio State clinch an undefeated regular season and secure their spot in the national championship. Will Allen’s game-sealing interception in the final seconds remains one of the most memorable moments in the rivalry’s history.
1. The “Ten-Year War” Game of 1973
This clash between Woody Hayes’ Buckeyes and Bo Schembechler’s Wolverines ended in a controversial 10-10 tie. The fallout from this game, including the Big Ten’s decision to send Ohio State to the Rose Bowl, intensified the rivalry and added another chapter to the storied “Ten-Year War.”
