The 1968 National Championship Team: An Oral History

By a passionate Ohio State football fan, reliving the glory days and exploring the legends, debates, and legacy of the Buckeyes’ greatest teams and players.

Setting the Stage: Ohio State Football’s Rich Legacy

Ohio State football isn’t just a program; it’s a tradition steeped in fervor, pride, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. From the days of Woody Hayes to the modern era of Urban Meyer and Ryan Day, the Buckeyes have cultivated a legacy of winning, innovation, and producing legends that echo in the annals of college football history.

Ever notice how but for many fans — myself included — the 1968 national championship team remains a defining moment. It was the season that solidified Ohio State's place atop the college football Mount Rushmore, a team whose grit, talent, and coaching brilliance still inspire heated debates about the greatest Buckeye teams and players of all time.

The 1968 National Champions: A Team for the Ages

Led by the iconic Woody Hayes, the 1968 Buckeyes finished the season undefeated with a 10-0 record, capturing top Ohio State football players the Big Ten title and the national championship. This squad was a masterclass in teamwork, featuring a balance of dominant defense and a relentless ground game, hallmarks of Hayes’ philosophy.

Key figures like Rex Kern, the quarterback who orchestrated the offense with poise and precision, and Jim Otis, the powerhouse running back, were instrumental in that championship run. The defense, anchored by legends such as Jack Tatum and Jim Stillwagon, suffocated opponents and set the tone for Buckeye toughness.

Revisiting this team through interviews, archival footage, and oral histories reveals how this group’s chemistry and resilience forged one of the best Ohio State all-time offenses and a defense that remains a benchmark for toughness.

Ohio State Football Mount Rushmore: Ranking the Top 4 Ohio State Players

When it comes to the Ohio State football Mount Rushmore, every fan has a different take, but certain names inevitably rise to the top. Who are the best four Buckeye players ever? Let’s explore some of the legends frequently mentioned in these passionate debates:

Archie Griffin – The only two-time Heisman Trophy winner in college football history, Archie Griffin’s name is synonymous with greatness. His durability, vision, and relentlessness on the field make him arguably the greatest college player of all time. The question remains: will anyone win two Heismans again?
Orlando Pace – Considered the most dominant college offensive lineman ever, Pace was a cornerstone of the Buckeyes' offense in the mid-1990s. His ability to pancake defenders redefined the position and paved the way for many of Ohio State’s best running back seasons.
Eddie George – The 1995 Heisman winner delivered one of the best Ohio State running back seasons in school history. His power running and clutch performances, including against Michigan, still resonate with fans debating the Ezekiel Elliott vs Eddie George legacy.
Chris Spielman – A linebacker legend and epitome of toughness, Spielman’s leadership and ferocity made him a fan favorite. His inspirational speeches and relentless play embody the Buckeye spirit.

Of course, these rankings often spark debate. Names like Troy Smith and Justin Fields come up in discussions about the best Ohio State quarterback ever, with fans passionately debating Troy Smith vs Justin Fields and whether is Troy Smith the best OSU QB or if Fields’ electrifying style and stats push him ahead in the ranking Ohio State quarterbacks conversation.

Quarterback Showdown: Troy Smith vs Justin Fields

Let’s dive into the quarterback battle that fuels endless Buckeye bar debates. Troy Smith’s 2006 Heisman-winning season was a masterclass in clutch play, especially in games against Michigan where he seemed to own the Wolverines. His poise and leadership during the Tressel era helped Ohio State claim the 2007 national title.

Justin Fields, on the other hand, brought a new dimension to Ohio State’s offense with his dual-threat capabilities. His stats are staggering, and his ability to produce highlight-reel plays makes him a favorite among modern fans. But does that make him the best Ohio State QB for one game, or the best ever? The debate continues.. But it's not a one-size-fits-all solution

Both quarterbacks have left indelible marks on the program, and their legacies are intertwined with the Buckeyes’ recent dominance.

Ohio State Heisman Winners and the Legacy of Greatness

Ohio State’s contribution to college football’s Heisman Trophy history is unmatched, boasting multiple winners including Archie Griffin (twice), Eddie George, Troy Smith, and more. Each brought unique skills and stories to OSU football history:

Archie Griffin: The only player with two Heisman trophies, cementing his status as the greatest college player.
Eddie George: His 1995 season remains one of the best Ohio State running back seasons, blending power and grace.
Troy Smith: The 2006 Heisman winner, whose clutch performances and leadership defined the Tressel era.

Will anyone ever match Archie Griffin’s feat of winning two Heismans? It’s a tall order in today’s competitive landscape, but Ohio State continues to produce top-tier talent that keeps the dream alive.

Underrated and Forgotten Ohio State Legends

While the household names get the spotlight, many Ohio State players who deserve more credit often fly under the radar. From offensive linemen who paved the way for stars like Eddie George and Ezekiel Elliott to defensive stalwarts who defined toughness, Ohio State’s history is filled with most underrated Buckeyes and Ohio State players who deserve more credit.

Players like Jim Stillwagon and Jack Tatum are often cited as Ohio State linebacker legends and defensive icons. Similarly, Orlando Pace, often called the most dominant college offensive lineman, revolutionized the position.

These “forgotten Ohio State legends” helped build the foundation that allowed the Buckeyes to achieve greatness across decades. They embody the ethos of toughness and team-first mentality that’s synonymous with Ohio State.

The Ohio State All-Time Offense and Dream Team

Imagining an Ohio State dream team offense is a passionate exercise for Buckeye fans everywhere. What would the Ohio State all time offense look like? Here’s a lineup that blends eras and styles:

QB: Troy Smith — clutch, poised, and a proven winner.
RB1: Archie Griffin — unmatched durability and production.
RB2: Eddie George — power and explosive run style.
WR: David Boston — electrifying playmaker.
OL: Orlando Pace — pancake machine and protector extraordinaire.

This all Buckeye offense would be a nightmare for any defense. It highlights the best Ohio State offensive players across decades — from the Woody Hayes ground-and-pound days to the spread offenses of the 21st century.

Ohio State's Toughest Players and Defensive Legends

Ohio State’s toughness is legendary, and the program has produced some of the toughest players in college football history. Chris Spielman stands out as a symbol of grit and determination. His leadership on the field and powerful Chris Spielman speech inspire Buckeyes to this day.

Linebacker legends like Spielman and Jack Tatum defined Ohio State’s defensive swagger. Their impact transcends stats — they set a standard for intensity and physicality that’s part of the Buckeye identity.

Comparing Ohio State Running Backs: Eddie George vs Ezekiel Elliott

Running back debates are a staple of OSU discussions, especially when comparing legends like Eddie George and Ezekiel Elliott. George’s 1995 season was a tour de force, culminating in a Heisman Trophy. Elliott’s style is more explosive and versatile, with eye-popping highlight reels.

Statistically, Elliott edges out in yards per carry and total production in a shorter college career, but George’s leadership and power running left a lasting legacy. The Elliott vs George stats debate will continue, but both are undeniably among the best Ohio State running backs ever.

The Tressel Era and the 2002 National Championship Team

The 2002 Ohio State championship team under Jim Tressel is another cornerstone of Buckeye greatness. Led by Craig Krenzel at quarterback and a stout defense, this team pulled off one of the most memorable Fiesta Bowl victories in college football history.

This era produced many legends — the best players of the Tressel era — and the team’s ability to rise in clutch moments, particularly against Michigan, remains a highlight of Ohio State lore. Players like Beanie Wells and Troy Smith became synonymous with big-game performances, further enriching the legacy of Ohio State players who owned Michigan.

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Clutch Ohio State Quarterbacks and Best Performances Against Michigan

Few moments get Buckeye fans more fired up than clutch performances against Michigan. Ohio State quarterbacks like Troy Smith and Craig Krenzel have cemented their place in history by rising to the occasion in these rivalry games.

Whether it was a last-minute touchdown pass or a game-sealing drive, these players embody the spirit of Ohio State football — relentless, fearless, and always clutch. The question of the best Ohio State QB for one game often comes down to performances in these high-pressure environments.

Final Thoughts

The 1968 National Championship team was more than just a collection of talented players — it was a defining moment in Ohio State football history that set the tone for decades of success. From the legends on that squad to the ongoing debates about the best Buckeye players ever, Ohio State’s football program remains a vibrant tapestry of passion, excellence, and tradition.

Whether you’re arguing the merits of Troy Smith vs Justin Fields, admiring Archie Griffin’s unparalleled achievements, or celebrating the toughness of Chris Spielman and Orlando Pace, one thing is clear: Ohio State football’s legacy is as rich and compelling as any in college football.

So here’s to the legends, the forgotten heroes, and the future stars — all part of the unstoppable Buckeye legacy.

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