Ranking Ohio State legends, player comparisons, all-time teams, program history, and the debates that fuel Buckeye passion.
The Quest for the Ohio State Football Mount Rushmore
Ohio State football isn’t just a program; it’s a roaring legacy etched deep into the heart of college football. From the thunderous cheers at The Horseshoe to the historic rivalries that define the sport, Buckeye legends have shaped this program into a national powerhouse. But when it comes to distilling over a century of greatness into just four names — the Ohio State football Mount Rushmore — the debate becomes as fierce as any game against Michigan.
Who are the top 4 Ohio State players who deserve this elite honor? What about the best four Buckeye players ever across all positions and eras? Let’s dive in and relive the glory days of Ohio State football, ranking legends and exploring the stories that make this program truly iconic.
Archie Griffin: The Greatest College Player and Two-Time Heisman Winner
When discussing Ohio State legends, you can’t start anywhere other than Archie Griffin. The only player in college football history to win the Heisman Trophy twice, in 1974 and 1975, Griffin’s name is synonymous with 15 Best Most Famous Ohio State Football Players of All Time Buckeye greatness. His blend of speed, vision, and durability made him unstoppable during his tenure.
In a time when will anyone win two Heismans again? is a genuine question, Griffin’s feat remains unmatched. His consistency and leadership helped set the foundation for Ohio State’s national prominence. Beyond the awards, his legacy extends into what it means to be a Buckeye — humble, relentless, and clutch.
Many consider Archie Griffin the greatest college player ever, and rightly so. His impact transcends statistics; he embodies the heart of Ohio State football.
Best Ohio State Quarterbacks Ever: Troy Smith vs Justin Fields and Others
The quarterback position has always been pivotal in Buckeye lore. When it comes to the best Ohio State quarterback ever, the debate often narrows to two electric talents: Troy Smith and Justin Fields.
Troy Smith won the Heisman in 2006, leading Ohio State with poise and precision. His ability to perform in clutch moments — especially in rivalry games — cements his status among the elite. But is Troy Smith the best OSU QB? Many argue that Justin Fields’ dynamic dual-threat style and record-breaking performances have raised the bar even higher.
Fields brought a new dimension to the Buckeyes, combining a cannon arm with blazing speed. His 2019 season was electric, and though he didn’t win the Heisman, his impact was undeniable. Comparing Troy Smith vs Justin Fields often boils down to style preferences: the classic pocket passer versus the modern dual-threat phenom.
Of course, other legends like Rex Kern and Craig Krenzel (notably from the 2002 Ohio State championship team) deserve mention, especially for their leadership in clutch situations. For example, Krenzel’s performance in the 2002 Fiesta Bowl was a masterclass in pressure football — a true testament to Ohio State’s clutch quarterback tradition.
So where does the ranking Ohio State quarterbacks list stand? If we look at Heisman winners, clutch performances against Michigan, and impact on championship teams, a top-5 might look like this:
Archie Griffin (RB but sometimes considered in QB discussions for leadership) Troy Smith Justin Fields Craig Krenzel Rex Kern And for those curious, the best Ohio State QB for one game 
Running Back Royalty: Eddie George and Ezekiel Elliott
Ohio State has churned out some of the best running backs in college football history, but none quite as impactful as Eddie George and Ezekiel Elliott. George’s 1995 season, which earned him the Heisman Trophy, was a tour de force of power, agility, and workhorse mentality. The 1995 Eddie George highlights Ohio State reel is a must-watch for any fan wanting to understand Buckeye dominance on the ground.
The debate of Ezekiel Elliott vs Eddie George or Elliott vs George stats is a popular one. Elliott combined breakaway speed with vision, putting up video game numbers and leading Ohio State to a National Championship in 2014. George, however, holds the edge in terms of sheer toughness and consistency over a full season.
Both are unquestionably among the best Ohio State running back seasons ever, and their impact on the program is everlasting.
Offensive Line Legends: Orlando Pace and the Pancake King
While skill players often get the spotlight, Buckeye offensive linemen like Orlando Pace have been the unsung heroes. Renowned as the most dominant college offensive lineman of his era, Pace was a wall of power and technique. His ability to open running lanes and protect quarterbacks was legendary — earning him the nickname "The Pancake King" for the sheer number of defenders he flattened.
When building an Ohio State all-time offense or Ohio State dream team offense, Pace’s name is a must-include. Alongside other great Buckeye linemen, he helped define the trenches as a foundation for championships.
The Tressel Era Legends: Building a Modern Powerhouse
The Tressel era (2001-2010) was a golden age for Ohio State, combining discipline, toughness, and clutch performances. Players like Beanie Wells, Troy Smith, and Chris Spielman (though Spielman’s prime was earlier, his spirit echoes in Tressel’s squads) all contributed to a culture of winning.
The 2002 Ohio State championship team, affectionately dubbed the “Luckeyes” for their resilience, showcased gritty defense and timely offense. With Craig Krenzel at the helm and a defense that owned Michigan, this team is a blueprint for success.
Remember Beanie Wells’ performances against Michigan? Few players have delivered with such ferocity in the rivalry. These moments contribute to the debate over Ohio State players who owned Michigan.
Linebacker Legends and Toughest Buckeyes: Chris Spielman and Beyond
Defense wins championships, and few embodied Buckeye toughness like Chris Spielman. A linebacker legend, Spielman’s intensity and leadership set the tone for Ohio State’s hard-nosed defensive identity.
His famous Chris Spielman speech to inspire teammates is still cited as a defining moment in Buckeye culture. When thinking about the toughest Ohio State players, Spielman’s name is always near the top.
Alongside other defensive stalwarts, these players remind us that legends come in all forms — not just flashy stats but also unmatched grit and heart.
actually,Underrated and Forgotten Ohio State Legends
Every storied program has players who flew under the radar yet made huge impacts. Ohio State’s most underrated Buckeyes and Ohio State players who deserve more credit enrich the tapestry of the program. From linemen who paved the way for Heisman winners to defensive players whose names aren’t always in the spotlight, these forgotten legends embody the full depth of Buckeye greatness.
Conclusion: Building Your Own Ohio State Football Mount Rushmore
Ranking Ohio State legends isn't just about stats or awards — it’s about legacy, impact, and the stories that inspire generations. Whether it’s Archie Griffin’s two Heismans, the fierce quarterback battles of Troy Smith vs Justin Fields, or Orlando Pace’s dominance in the trenches, every player adds a unique chapter to Buckeye history.
So, who’s on your Ohio State football Mount Rushmore? Is it Archie Griffin, Troy Smith, Eddie George, and Orlando Pace? Or perhaps you lean toward the gritty Tressel-era legends or the modern stars who continue the tradition? What’s undeniable is that Ohio State football’s rich history is filled with legends — and the debates will rage on just as passionately as the rivalry games.
In the end, the best Ohio State offensive players, defensive stalwarts, and clutch performers all collectively paint the picture of a program unlike any other — one where greatness is a tradition, and legends never fade.