SI Vault: A Historical Look at Ohio State Football’s Legacy

Ohio State University is a name synonymous with college football excellence. Throughout its storied history, the Buckeyes have become a permanent fixture in the conversation about college football powerhouses, consistently maintaining a level of success that few programs have matched. With 8 national championships, 39 conference titles, and countless legendary players and coaches, the Ohio State Buckeyes stand tall among the elite programs in college football. This article takes a retrospective look at Ohio State’s illustrious football legacy, exploring its impact on the sport through the lens of some of Sports Illustrated’s most iconic photos.

The Birth of a Powerhouse

Ohio State’s rise to prominence didn’t happen overnight. Although the program’s roots date back to 1890, it wasn’t until the mid-20th century that the Buckeyes began to carve out their place in college football history. The hire of coach Woody Hayes in 1951 marked the beginning of a new era for the Ohio State football program. Hayes instilled a blue-collar mentality in his teams, focusing on toughness, discipline, and a strong running game. His influence would transform the Buckeyes into one of the premier programs in the country.

In 1968, Ohio State had its breakthrough season under Hayes. The Buckeyes finished the regular season with a perfect 10-0 record and went on to win the national championship with a dominant victory over USC in the Rose Bowl. It was a season for the ages, and Sports Illustrated captured the moment in vivid photographs that still resonate today. One of the most iconic images from that season features star running back Jim Otis charging through a defensive line, epitomizing the toughness and determination that defined Hayes’ teams.

The Hayes Legacy

Woody Hayes is one of the most influential figures in the history of college football. His tenure at Ohio State was marked by an unrelenting desire to win, often employing a style of play that relied on a power-running game and a fierce, disciplined defense. Under Hayes, Ohio State won five national championships and numerous Big Ten titles, cementing the program’s reputation as a football powerhouse.

One of the most memorable moments of Hayes’ career came in 1974, when the Buckeyes faced off against their bitter rivals, the Michigan Wolverines, in a game that would decide the Big Ten title. The photos from this game, featured in Sports Illustrated, capture the intense rivalry and the stakes involved. The image of Hayes standing on the sidelines, intensely watching the action, would become a symbol of Ohio State football’s fierce determination and competitive spirit.

The 1980s and Beyond: A New Era of Success

Although Hayes’ tenure at Ohio State ended in 1978 following a highly publicized incident in the Rose Bowl, his legacy continued to shape the program for years to come. In 1983, Earle Bruce took over as head coach, bringing a fresh perspective while maintaining many of the principles established by Hayes. Bruce led Ohio State to a Big Ten title and an appearance in the Rose Bowl during his first season, continuing the tradition of excellence that had become synonymous with the Buckeyes.

The 1980s also saw the rise of some of Ohio State’s most iconic players. Quarterback Art Schlichter, wide receiver Cris Carter, and running back Keith Byars all became household names, helping to further elevate the program’s reputation. Sports Illustrated captured several memorable moments from this era, including a breathtaking shot of Schlichter throwing a deep pass during a game against Michigan, showcasing the speed and athleticism that defined the Buckeyes’ offensive attack.

In the late 1980s and early 1990s, the Buckeyes continued their dominance in the Big Ten, but they were often overshadowed by other national title contenders. Despite this, Ohio State remained a perennial contender, regularly appearing in major bowl games and producing NFL-caliber talent. The Sports Illustrated vault is filled with photos of the Buckeyes’ signature performances, from thrilling victories over rival Michigan to gut-wrenching losses in the national spotlight.

The 2000s: The Tressel Era

The turn of the millennium brought a new chapter in Ohio State football history with the hiring of Jim Tressel as head coach in 2001. Tressel brought a calm, composed demeanor to the sideline while maintaining the tradition of success that had defined Ohio State for decades. His first major triumph came in 2002 when the Buckeyes won the national championship, defeating the Miami Hurricanes in a thrilling Fiesta Bowl matchup.

Sports Illustrated’s coverage of the 2002 national championship team included some unforgettable images, such as quarterback Craig Krenzel hoisting the championship trophy in front of thousands of jubilant fans. The photos from that season captured the sense of pride and accomplishment that came with winning a national title, especially after overcoming a tough schedule and a gritty Miami team.

The Tressel era was also marked by Ohio State’s continued success in the Big Ten. The Buckeyes consistently found themselves atop the conference standings, and their fierce rivalry with Michigan remained as intense as ever. Sports Illustrated’s photos of Ohio State’s wins over Michigan in the 2000s, particularly the 2006 showdown for the national title, showcase the high stakes and dramatic moments that have come to define this rivalry. The photos of Ohio State fans celebrating in the stands, with their iconic scarlet and gray colors filling the stadium, represent the deep connection between the team and its loyal supporters.

Urban Meyer: A New Dynasty

In 2012, Ohio State hired Urban Meyer to lead the program, ushering in another period of dominance. Meyer wasted no time in making an impact, leading the Buckeyes to an undefeated season in 2012, although they were ineligible for postseason play due to NCAA sanctions. The following season, Meyer’s team delivered on its promise, winning the Big Ten and securing a spot in the inaugural College Football Playoff in 2014.

The 2014 season was one for the history books. Behind the strong leadership of quarterback Cardale Jones and a dominant defense, Ohio State won the national championship, defeating Oregon in the championship game. Sports Illustrated’s coverage of the 2014 season featured some of the most dramatic photos in recent memory, including the iconic image of Jones leading the Buckeyes to victory over Alabama in the Sugar Bowl, a game that many considered the true national semifinal. The photos captured the sheer emotion of the moment, as Ohio State’s victory in that game catapulted them into the championship spotlight.

Meyer’s tenure at Ohio State was also marked by consistent success in the Big Ten and multiple College Football Playoff appearances. Throughout his time in Columbus, the Buckeyes remained a fixture in the national conversation, with Meyer’s recruiting prowess and ability to develop talent keeping Ohio State at the forefront of college football.

The Ryan Day Era: Continuing the Legacy

After Meyer’s retirement in 2018, Ryan Day took over as head coach, inheriting a program that was already one of the most successful in the country. Day’s first season at the helm was marked by a potent offense, led by quarterback Dwayne Haskins, which helped propel the Buckeyes to a 13-1 record and a College Football Playoff appearance. Although they fell short of winning the national title, the photos from this season – featuring Haskins in full stride, slinging passes with pinpoint accuracy – encapsulate the excitement and potential of Ohio State football in the modern era.

Day’s success continued into the next decade, with Ohio State once again emerging as a national title contender. The Buckeyes’ high-powered offense, combined with a fierce defense, made them one of the most balanced teams in the country. Sports Illustrated’s photos of Ohio State’s recent seasons show the continuing legacy of excellence under Day, from thrilling victories over Michigan to high-stakes playoff appearances.

Ohio State’s Legacy: More Than Just Wins

Ohio State’s legacy is built not only on its national championships and Big Ten titles but also on its contributions to the culture of college football. The Buckeyes have produced some of the greatest players to ever play the game, including Archie Griffin, who remains the only two-time Heisman Trophy winner, as well as NFL stars like Eddie George, Chris Spielman, and A.J. Hawk. The program has also been a pipeline to the NFL, with numerous Ohio State players going on to have successful careers at the next level.

The history of Ohio State football is rich with tradition, and it continues to evolve with each new season. Through the lens of Sports Illustrated’s iconic photos, we are able to witness the moments that define Ohio State football’s legacy: the hard-hitting rivalry games, the championship moments, the on-field triumphs, and the joy of fans celebrating in the stands. These images are a testament to the greatness of Ohio State football, a program that has remained a dominant force in college football for decades.

As the Buckeyes continue their pursuit of national championships and Big Ten titles, one thing is certain: Ohio State’s place among the elite football programs in the country is firmly established. And through the photos preserved in the SI Vault, we are reminded that Ohio State’s legacy is not just a collection of wins and losses, but a rich, vibrant history that will continue to shape the future of college football for years to come.