Troy Smith: Ohio State’s Heisman Hero and His Legacy

When discussing Ohio State football’s storied history, certain names immediately come to mind—Eddie George, Archie Griffin, and more recently, Braxton Miller or J.K. Dobbins. However, one name that might not always come up as often, despite the prestigious accolades, is Troy Smith. In 2006, Smith became the sixth player in Ohio State’s storied football history to win the prestigious Heisman Trophy, recognizing him as the best player in college football that season. His story, however, is one that is often overlooked in the annals of Ohio State football history, overshadowed by the success of other players before and after him. Yet, Smith’s impact on the Buckeyes and the college football landscape, particularly in the evolution of the quarterback position, remains undeniable.

Smith was not only a dynamic quarterback but also an embodiment of the evolution of the position during the early 2000s. While Ohio State has produced countless legendary players, Smith’s dual-threat abilities make him unique among the Buckeyes’ Heisman winners. His achievements both on the ground and through the air helped define the versatile, multi-threat quarterbacks that are now a staple at Ohio State. This essay explores Smith’s career, his Heisman-winning season, his contributions to the development of Ohio State football, and his enduring legacy as one of college football’s most dynamic quarterbacks.

Early Life and College Beginnings

Troy Smith was born on July 8, 1984, in Cleveland, Ohio, and was raised in the city’s inner neighborhoods. He attended Glenville High School, where he was an athletic standout, excelling in both football and track. Smith’s high school football career caught the attention of major college programs, and he eventually chose to stay in his home state, committing to Ohio State University.

Initially, Smith’s college career was less than stellar. After redshirting his first year in 2002, he spent most of his first few seasons as a backup quarterback, behind established players like Craig Krenzel and Scott McMullen. It wasn’t until 2004 that Smith would start to show flashes of his potential, taking over the starting role after an injury to Krenzel. He began to demonstrate his arm strength and ability to make plays both with his legs and his arm, which set him apart from many other quarterbacks in the country at the time.

Despite playing behind a strong supporting cast, Smith’s sophomore season in 2004 was a turning point for him. He led the Buckeyes to a victory in the Fiesta Bowl, earning valuable experience that would serve him well in the future. However, it wasn’t until his junior and senior seasons that Smith truly made a name for himself, developing into one of the top quarterbacks in the nation.

The 2005 Season: A Rising Star

The 2005 season marked Smith’s first full year as Ohio State’s starting quarterback. Under the guidance of head coach Jim Tressel, Smith was tasked with leading a team that featured a blend of talented players on both offense and defense. The Buckeyes were coming off a disappointing 2004 season, in which they failed to capture the Big Ten title, and Smith knew that this was his chance to elevate his game and make a statement.

During the 2005 season, Smith’s statistics were impressive, particularly considering that the Buckeyes often leaned on a balanced attack that featured a strong running game. Smith threw for 2,282 yards, with 16 touchdowns and only four interceptions. He also proved to be a formidable threat on the ground, rushing for 611 yards and 11 touchdowns. His dual-threat capabilities became apparent, and his ability to extend plays with his legs made him a nightmare for opposing defenses.

Despite his individual success, the 2005 season ended in disappointment for Smith and the Buckeyes. Ohio State lost to Texas in an early-season thriller, and though they would go on to finish 10-2 and win a BCS bowl game, the team fell short of its ultimate goal: a national championship. Despite the team’s shortcomings, Smith’s play continued to draw attention, and by the end of the season, he was considered one of the top quarterbacks in the country.

The 2006 Season: The Heisman Year

The 2006 season marked the pinnacle of Troy Smith’s college career. After a strong showing in 2005, Smith returned for his senior year with a clear sense of purpose. He was the leader of a talented Ohio State team that was ranked No. 1 in the country and had national championship aspirations. The season began with high expectations, and Smith delivered from the outset, leading the Buckeyes to an undefeated regular season.

Smith’s performance in 2006 was nothing short of spectacular. He threw for 2,542 yards and an incredible 30 touchdowns, while also rushing for 211 yards and four touchdowns. His efficiency as a passer was remarkable, as he finished the season with an astonishing 67.7% completion percentage, showcasing his accuracy and decision-making. Smith’s ability to make plays in both the passing and running games made him one of the most dangerous quarterbacks in college football.

The highlight of Smith’s 2006 campaign came in a monumental game against Michigan. With both teams undefeated and the winner of the game likely to secure a spot in the national championship, Smith put on a performance for the ages. He threw for 300 yards and four touchdowns, leading Ohio State to a dominant 42-39 victory over the Wolverines. The game cemented Smith’s status as one of the best players in the nation and solidified his place in Ohio State lore.

In recognition of his outstanding season, Smith was awarded the Heisman Trophy in December 2006. His victory made him the sixth player in Ohio State history to win college football’s most coveted individual award, joining a prestigious list that included Archie Griffin, the only player in history to win the award twice. Smith’s Heisman win was a testament to his incredible skills, leadership, and resilience throughout the season, and it was widely viewed as a well-deserved honor.

National Championship and Ohio State’s Struggles

Despite Smith’s individual success, the 2006 season ended in heartbreak for Ohio State. After securing a spot in the BCS National Championship Game, the Buckeyes faced the Florida Gators in a highly anticipated matchup. Smith, who had been nearly flawless all season, struggled in the championship game, as Florida’s defense stifled the Ohio State offense. The Buckeyes were ultimately defeated 41-14, and Smith was left to reflect on what could have been.

Though the loss in the national championship game tarnished an otherwise stellar season, it did not diminish Smith’s legacy at Ohio State. He had led the Buckeyes to one of the best seasons in school history, and his performance throughout the year was one for the record books. He had redefined the role of a quarterback at Ohio State, blending passing and rushing in a way that would later be emulated by future Buckeye quarterbacks like Braxton Miller and J.T. Barrett.

Post-College Career

After his Heisman-winning season, Smith declared for the NFL Draft, but his professional career did not unfold as many had expected. He was selected by the Baltimore Ravens in the fifth round of the 2007 NFL Draft, and while he showed flashes of talent, he never became a starting quarterback in the NFL. Smith spent most of his time as a backup with the Ravens and later with the San Francisco 49ers, but his career never reached the heights it had during his time at Ohio State.

Despite his lack of NFL success, Smith’s impact on the game is still felt today. His success at Ohio State helped pave the way for future dual-threat quarterbacks in the college game, especially at Ohio State. Players like Braxton Miller, J.T. Barrett, and Justin Fields all followed in Smith’s footsteps, embracing the dual-threat quarterback role that Smith had popularized. His ability to make plays with both his arm and his legs changed the way college coaches approached the quarterback position.

Troy Smith’s Legacy

Though Smith may not have had the professional career that many expected, his legacy at Ohio State and in college football is secure. He helped define a new era of quarterbacks in the college game, one in which versatility and the ability to make plays both in the air and on the ground became essential. Smith’s 2006 Heisman Trophy win was not just a personal achievement but also a milestone for Ohio State, solidifying the program’s place among the elite in college football.

Smith’s time at Ohio State is often remembered for the highs and the heartbreaks—the 2006 season that ended in disappointment, but also the unforgettable performances that defined his career. Whether it was his electrifying play against Michigan or his remarkable individual statistics, Troy Smith left an indelible mark on Ohio State football. He may be one of the most forgotten Heisman winners in the program’s history, but his contributions to the game will never be overlooked.

Troy Smith was a player ahead of his time, and in many ways, he laid the foundation for the modern, multi-dimensional quarterback that we see in today’s college football. He will forever be remembered as one of the greatest quarterbacks to ever play for Ohio State, a true Heisman hero whose legacy continues to inspire the next generation of players.