Ohio State football is synonymous with excellence, tradition, and unforgettable moments. While they’ve certainly had their fair share of heartbreak, they’ve also had some incredible moments of triumph.
So, as the Buckeyes prepare to face Notre Dame in the National Championship on Monday, January 20, it’s the perfect time to reflect on some of the most iconic games in the program’s storied history.
The Fiesta Bowl Miracle: Ohio State vs. Miami
In the 2002 BCS National Championship, the underdog Buckeyes stunned Miami’s “Team of the Century” in a nail-biting double-overtime classic. Maurice Clarett’s clutch plays and a disputed pass interference call helped secure Ohio State’s first title since 1968.
A Rivalry Rout: Ohio State vs. Michigan
This blowout victory in 1968 capped an undefeated season and earned the Buckeyes a national title. Woody Hayes’ controversial decision to go for two points late in the game symbolized Ohio State’s fiery dominance over their biggest rival.
Inaugural Playoff Glory: Ohio State vs. Oregon
The 2015 Buckeyes triumphed in the first-ever College Football Playoff National Championship, thanks to standout performances by Ezekiel Elliott and Cardale Jones. It was a crowning moment for Urban Meyer and Ohio State’s eighth national title.
The Blizzard Battle: Ohio State vs. Michigan
The “Snow Bowl” in 1950 was played in treacherous conditions, with strong winds and heavy snow. Though Ohio State lost, the game’s grit and perseverance have immortalized it in rivalry lore.
Overcoming the Tide: Ohio State vs. Alabama
As part of the College Football Playoff in 2015, Ohio State toppled the favored Alabama Crimson Tide. Ezekiel Elliott’s iconic 85-yard touchdown run sealed the victory and set the stage for a national championship.
Battle of the Titans: Ohio State vs. Michigan (2006)
When No. 1 faced No. 2 back in 2006, the stakes had never been higher. The Buckeyes edged out their fiercest rival in a thrilling shootout to claim Big Ten supremacy and a shot at the national championship.
Fourth-and-Glory: Ohio State vs. Purdue
Craig Krenzel’s 37-yard touchdown pass to Michael Jenkins on fourth-and-1 kept Ohio State’s perfect season alive in 2002. This “Holy Buckeye” moment remains one of the most dramatic plays in school history.
Rose Bowl Dominance: Ohio State vs. USC
The Buckeyes dismantled USC in the 1974 Rose Bowl, led by future Heisman winner Archie Griffin. The victory solidified Ohio State’s place among the nation’s elite programs.
Season-Defining Victory: Ohio State vs. Michigan
Will Allen’s late-game interception secured Ohio State’s undefeated regular season and sent them to the BCS National Championship in 2002. The win was a hallmark moment in one of the program’s most successful campaigns.
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The Tie That Fueled the Rivalry: Ohio State vs. Michigan
This legendary game in 1973 ended in a tie, sparking controversy when Ohio State was chosen to represent the Big Ten in the Rose Bowl. The intensity of the “Ten-Year War” between Woody Hayes and Bo Schembechler reached its peak with this matchup.
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