History of Ohio State Buckeyes football in Timeline
The Ohio State Buckeyes football team represents The Ohio State University in the NCAA Division I Football Bowl Subdivision, specifically within the Big Ten Conference. Their home games have been played at Ohio Stadium, situated in Columbus, Ohio, since 1922.
1901: John Sigrist Fatality
In 1901, John Sigrist, a center for Ohio State, died from injuries sustained during a game against Western Reserve University. This incident raised serious questions about the future of football at the university.
1912: Ohio State Joins the Big Ten
In 1912, Ohio State joined the Big Ten Conference, after previously being a member of the Ohio Athletic Conference.
1912: Program Developments
In 1912, Ohio State's football program underwent several changes, including joining the Western Conference, establishing football as part of the Department of Athletics, and hiring Lynn W. St. John as athletic director.
1913: Ohio State Begins Big Ten Play
Ohio State started playing in the Big Ten in 1913.
1914: First Ohio State All-American
Since 1914, Ohio State players have achieved All-American status.
1916: First Big Ten Championship
The Buckeyes, led by Chic Harley, won their first Big Ten Championship in 1916, finishing with a perfect 7-0 record.
1917: Second Big Ten Championship
Ohio State won their second consecutive Big Ten title in 1917, going 8-0-1.
1922: Ohio Stadium Opens
Due to the large crowds Chic Harley drew, Ohio Stadium opened in 1922, funded entirely by fan donations.
1922: First Three-Game Losing Streak at Home Since 1922
Ohio State had three consecutive losses at Ohio Stadium for the first time since 1922 including rematches against Stanford and Florida State, and for the second consecutive year against Wisconsin, but eventually finished the season on a winning streak.
1930: Wes Fesler Named Big Ten MVP
In 1930, Wes Fesler (E) was named the Big Ten Most Valuable Player.
1933: Unrecognized National Championship
In 1933, Ohio State was selected as national champion by some selectors, but the university does not claim this title.
March 1934: Francis Schmidt Hiring
Ohio State hired Francis Schmidt as head coach in March 1934, marking a move toward "big-time" competition. Known for his offensive innovations, Schmidt was the first Buckeyes football coach to receive a multi-year contract.
1935: First Game Against Notre Dame
The Buckeyes played their first game against Notre Dame in 1935, losing 18-13.
1939: Big Ten Championship Under Schmidt
The Buckeyes won the Big Ten Championship in 1939 under coach Francis Schmidt.
December 17, 1940: Francis Schmidt Resignation
On December 17, 1940, Francis Schmidt resigned as head coach of the Ohio State Buckeyes.
1941: Jack Graf Named Big Ten MVP
In 1941, Jack Graf (FB) was named the Big Ten Most Valuable Player.
1942: Bill Willis
Bill Willis, the first African American star for the Buckeyes, played prominently during the 1942-1944 seasons.
1942: Chuck Csuri Named an All Big Ten player
Chuck Csuri (OT) was recognized for his football prowess at Ohio State.
1943: Gordon Appleby Named an All Big Ten player
Gordon Appleby (C) was recognized for his football prowess at Ohio State.
1944: Les Horvath Named Big Ten MVP
In 1944, Les Horvath (QB) was named the Big Ten Most Valuable Player.
1944: Unrecognized National Championship
In 1944, Ohio State was selected as national champion by some selectors, but the university does not claim this title.
1944: Paul Brown's Navy Commission
Paul Brown accepted a commission in the U.S. Navy in 1944, ending his coaching tenure at Ohio State.
1944: Undefeated Season and Heisman Trophy
Under coach Carroll Widdoes, Ohio State went undefeated in 1944, and Les Horvath won the Heisman Trophy.
1945: Ollie Cline Named Big Ten MVP
In 1945, Ollie Cline (FB) was named the Big Ten Most Valuable Player.
1947: Last Place Finish
In 1947, under coach Wes Fesler, the Buckeyes finished last in the Big Ten for the only time in program history.
1949: Rose Bowl Victory
Ohio State had a winning season in 1949, culminating in a come-from-behind victory against California in the Rose Bowl.
1950: Vic Janowicz Named Big Ten MVP
In 1950, Vic Janowicz (HB) was named the Big Ten Most Valuable Player.
February 18, 1951: Woody Hayes Appointed Head Coach
On February 18, 1951, Woody Hayes was appointed as the head coach of the Ohio State Buckeyes football team, beating out other candidates like Paul Brown.
1951: Harley's Hall of Fame Induction
Chic Harley was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame as an inaugural member in 1951.
1952: Improved Season and Victory over Michigan
In 1952, the Buckeyes improved their record to 6-3 and secured their first victory over Michigan in eight years.
1953: Loss to Michigan and Criticism of Hayes
Following a loss to Michigan in 1953, critics called for Woody Hayes's replacement as head coach.
1954: Unexpected Championship Season
Despite low expectations, the Buckeyes, led by Howard "Hopalong" Cassady, achieved a perfect season and shared the national championship in 1954.
1954: National Championship
Ohio State won a national championship in 1954.
1955: Howard Cassady Named Big Ten MVP
In 1955, Howard "Hopalong" Cassady (HB) was named the Big Ten Most Valuable Player.
1955: Big Ten Title, Attendance Record, and Heisman Trophy
The Buckeyes won the Big Ten title, set an attendance record, and won in Ann Arbor for the first time in 18 years in 1955. Hopalong Cassady also won the Heisman Trophy.
1956: NCAA Violations and Probation
Woody Hayes and the Ohio State football program were placed on probation in 1956 following an investigation into possible NCAA violations related to loans to players.
1957: Big Ten and National Championship, Coach of the Year
In 1957, Ohio State won the Big Ten championship, the Rose Bowl, and a share of the national title. Woody Hayes was named Coach of the Year.
1957: National Championship
Ohio State won a national championship in 1957.
1961: National Championship and Rose Bowl Controversy
The Buckeyes were named national champions in 1961, but a faculty vote declined a Rose Bowl invitation, sparking public debate.
1966: Struggles and Calls for Hayes's Replacement
Ohio State had a losing season in 1966, leading to speculation about Woody Hayes's future as coach.
1968: National Championship
Ohio State won a national championship in 1968.
1968: Undefeated Season and National Championship
The Buckeyes went undefeated in 1968, culminating in a Rose Bowl victory and a national championship.
1969: Unrecognized National Championship
In 1969, Ohio State was selected as national champion by some selectors, but the university does not claim this title.
1969: Upset Loss to Michigan and Start of "Ten Year War"
Ohio State's winning streak ended with an upset loss to Michigan in 1969, marking the beginning of the "Ten Year War" rivalry with coach Bo Schembechler.
1970: Undefeated Regular Season, Rose Bowl Loss, and National Co-Championship
In 1970, Ohio State went undefeated in the regular season, won the Big Ten title, and was named national co-champion despite losing the Rose Bowl.
1972: Archie Griffin's Debut and Rushing Record
Archie Griffin began his college career in 1972, setting a new Buckeye rushing record in his second game.
1973: Archie Griffin Named Big Ten MVP
In 1973, Archie Griffin (RB) was named the Big Ten Most Valuable Player.
1973: Unrecognized National Championship
In 1973, Ohio State was selected as national champion by some selectors, but the university does not claim this title.
1974: Archie Griffin Named Big Ten MVP
In 1974, Archie Griffin (RB) was named the Big Ten Most Valuable Player for the second consecutive year.
1974: Unrecognized National Championship
In 1974, Ohio State was selected as national champion by some selectors, but the university does not claim this title.
1975: Cornelius Greene Named Big Ten MVP
In 1975, Cornelius Greene (QB) was named the Big Ten Most Valuable Player.
1975: Rose Bowl Loss and Archie Griffin's Second Heisman
In 1975, Ohio State lost the Rose Bowl again, despite Archie Griffin winning his second Heisman Trophy.
1975: Unrecognized National Championship
In 1975, Ohio State was selected as national champion by some selectors, but the university does not claim this title.
1975: End of "Ten Year War"
The Wolverines won the final three games of "The Ten Year War", which pitted some of OSU's and UM's strongest teams ever against one another between 1969 and 1975.
1976: Rose Bowl Loss to UCLA
The No. 1-ranked Buckeyes lost to 11th-ranked UCLA in the 1976 Rose Bowl.
1979: Earle Bruce Era Begins
In 1979, Earle Bruce took over as head coach, inheriting a strong team. Despite losing 11 starters, the team exceeded expectations by ending a losing streak against Michigan and reaching the Rose Bowl. They narrowly missed a national championship, losing both games by a single point. Bruce was named Coach of the Year.
1980: Ohio State Dominates Early Awards
Of the five major awards established before 1980, Ohio State players have won the most with 25.
1980: Start of a Trend
The 1980 season marked the beginning of a trend for Ohio State, finishing with a 9-3 record. This was the first of six consecutive seasons with the same record, culminating in bowl game appearances but no national championships.
1981: Art Schlichter Named Big Ten MVP
In 1981, Art Schlichter (QB) was named the Big Ten Most Valuable Player.
1984: Keith Byars Named Big Ten MVP
In 1984, Keith Byars (RB) was named the Big Ten Most Valuable Player.
1986: Two Opening Losses and Bruce Stays
In 1986, Ohio State started the season with two losses for the first time in over 90 years. They rebounded with nine consecutive wins but lost a close game to Michigan. After the season, Bruce was offered a coaching position at the University of Arizona but ultimately stayed at Ohio State.
1987: Cris Carter Dismissal, "Darkest Day," and Bruce's Firing
The 1987 season was tumultuous for Ohio State. All-American Cris Carter was dismissed from the team, they suffered a significant loss to Indiana (dubbed the "darkest day"), and lost three consecutive conference games. Amidst rumors and speculation, President Edward Jennings fired coach Earle Bruce, leading to controversy and the resignation of Athletic Director Rick Bay. The team rallied for a victory against Michigan but declined a Sun Bowl invitation.
1990: Liberty Bowl Loss
Ohio State finished the 1990 season with a 7-4-1 record, including a disappointing loss to Air Force in the Liberty Bowl.
1991: Robert Smith Quits
The 1991 season was notable for sophomore running back Robert Smith quitting the team. The team finished 8-4.
1992: Tie with Michigan
In 1992, with Kirk Herbstreit at quarterback and Robert Smith back on the team, Ohio State finished 8-3-1 and tied with Michigan, breaking their losing streak against them.
1993: Cooper Stays
Amid rumors of his resignation or firing, coach John Cooper's position was confirmed for the 1993 season by University President Gordon Gee.
1995: Eddie George Named Big Ten MVP
In 1995, Eddie George (TB) was named the Big Ten Most Valuable Player.
1996: Eddie George Named Big Ten Athlete of the Year
Eddie George was voted the Big Ten-Jesse Owens Athlete of the Year in 1996.
1996: Orlando Pace Named Big Ten MVP
In 1996, Orlando Pace (OT) was named the Big Ten Most Valuable Player.
1998: Joe Germaine Named Big Ten MVP
In 1998, Joe Germaine (QB) was named the Big Ten Most Valuable Player.
2000: Mediocre Season and Growing Criticism
After a successful run in the 90s, the 2000 season saw Ohio State finish 8-4, but criticism towards Cooper intensified, focusing on various aspects of the program beyond game results. The Outback Bowl game was marred by negative publicity surrounding player behavior.
January 3, 2001: Cooper Fired
John Cooper was fired on January 3, 2001, after a loss in the Outback Bowl and growing criticism. Factors contributing to his dismissal included his record against Michigan, difficulty winning big games, lack of a national championship, perceived lack of discipline, and a poor bowl game record.
2002: National Championship Win
Despite low expectations, Ohio State won the National Championship in 2002. Their success was attributed to strong defense, ball control, and strategic field positioning, a style dubbed "Tresselball."
November 22, 2006: All-Big Ten Team Honors
On November 22, 2006, ten Ohio State Buckeyes football players were recognized with All-Big Ten First Team honors, with seven players selected by both coaches and conference media. Troy Smith also received the Big Ten Offensive Player of the Year award.
2006: Unrecognized National Championship
In 2006, Ohio State was selected as national champion by some selectors, but the university does not claim this title.
2006: Troy Smith Named Big Ten MVP
In 2006, Troy Smith (QB) was named the Big Ten Most Valuable Player.
2006: Ohio State Players Lead in Trophies Won
Through the 2006 season, Ohio State players have won more major awards than any other NCAA Division 1A program.
January 1, 2010: Rose Bowl Victory Against Oregon
On January 1, 2010, Ohio State Buckeyes ended a 3-game BCS losing streak by defeating the Oregon Ducks in the Rose Bowl with a score of 26–17. Terrelle Pryor was named MVP, achieving 2 touchdown passes and a career-high 266 passing yards, surpassing the total yards of the entire Oregon team.
December 2010: Suspension of Players for NCAA Violations
In December 2010, it was announced that five Ohio State Buckeyes football players were suspended for the first five games of the 2011 season due to NCAA violations. The violations involved trading autographs for tattoos and selling items provided by the university, such as championship rings.
December 22, 2010: NCAA Announces Player Suspensions
On December 22, 2010, the NCAA announced suspensions for five Ohio State players, including Terrelle Pryor, for improper benefits, such as exchanging autographs for tattoos and selling memorabilia. This decision affected the first five games of the 2011 season.
2010: Ohio State Vacated Wins
Ohio State's vacated wins from 2010 are not included in the Big Ten matchup results table.
January 4, 2011: Sugar Bowl Victory Over Arkansas
On January 4, 2011, Ohio State Buckeyes defeated the Arkansas Razorbacks in the Sugar Bowl with a score of 31–26. Despite the victory, the win was later vacated due to a scandal involving improper benefits received by players.
March 8, 2011: Jim Tressel Suspended and Fined
On March 8, 2011, Ohio State University suspended head coach Jim Tressel for two games and fined him $250,000 for failing to report knowledge of players receiving improper benefits. His suspension was later increased to five games by the university.
May 30, 2011: Jim Tressel Resigns as Head Coach
On May 30, 2011, Jim Tressel resigned from his position as head coach of the Ohio State Buckeyes amid allegations of NCAA violations involving his players receiving improper benefits.
June 6, 2011: Sports Illustrated Report on NCAA Violations
On June 6, 2011, Sports Illustrated published a report alleging that at least 28 Ohio State players traded memorabilia for tattoos or other services between 2002 and 2010, implicating coach Jim Tressel in unethical conduct for not reporting these violations.
July 8, 2011: Ohio State Vacates 2010 Football Season Wins
On July 8, 2011, Ohio State University vacated all victories from the 2010 football season as self-imposed punishment for NCAA violations. Jim Tressel's status was changed to 'Retired,' and Luke Fickell was named interim head coach for the 2011 season.
November 28, 2011: Urban Meyer Hired as Head Coach
On November 28, 2011, former University of Florida head coach Urban Meyer accepted the position of head coach for the Buckeyes. He officially took over after the January 2012 Gator Bowl.
December 20, 2011: Ohio State Receives NCAA Sanctions
On December 20, 2011, Ohio State was sanctioned by the NCAA with a one-year bowl ban, loss of scholarships, and probation due to violations, including vacating all wins from the 2010 season.
2011: Study Shows Ohio State Has Most Fans
In 2011, a study by Nate Silver of The New York Times indicated that Ohio State had the largest fan base in college football.
2011: Big Ten Divisional Format Begins
The Big Ten adopted a divisional format in 2011, initially called Legends and Leaders.
2012: Braxton Miller Named Big Ten MVP
In 2012, Braxton Miller (QB) was named the Big Ten Most Valuable Player.
2013: Last Year of Legends and Leaders Divisions
2013 marked the final year of the Legends and Leaders divisions in the Big Ten.
2013: Braxton Miller Named Big Ten MVP
In 2013, Braxton Miller (QB) was named the Big Ten Most Valuable Player.
January 3, 2014: Loss to Clemson in Orange Bowl
On January 3, 2014, Ohio State Buckeyes were defeated by Clemson in the Orange Bowl with a score of 40–35, marking the end of their season and a loss in a major bowl game.
2014: Big Ten Realignment to East and West
In 2014, the Big Ten realigned its divisions geographically into East and West.
2014: National Championship
Ohio State won a national championship in 2014.
January 1, 2015: Sugar Bowl Victory Over Alabama
On January 1, 2015, Ohio State defeated Alabama 42–35 in the Sugar Bowl, advancing to the National Championship Game. This victory was part of the College Football Playoff, leading to their championship win.
2015: Ezekiel Elliott Named Big Ten MVP
In 2015, Ezekiel Elliott (RB) was named the Big Ten Most Valuable Player.
2017: Program Valuation and First NIL Millionaire
By 2017, Ohio State's football program was estimated to be worth $1.5–$2 billion, the highest in the nation. Also in 2017, Quinn Ewers became the NCAA's first NIL millionaire student-athlete.
2017: Ohio State All-Americans and Big Ten Honors
Through 2017, numerous Ohio State players have been named All-Americans and received All-Big Ten honors.
December 4, 2018: Urban Meyer Retirement Announcement
On December 4, 2018, Ohio State announced Urban Meyer's retirement, effective after the 2019 Rose Bowl, with Ryan Day named as his successor.
2018: Urban Meyer Suspension and Season
In 2018, Urban Meyer served a three-game suspension for mishandling domestic violence allegations. Ryan Day filled in as interim coach during the suspension, leading the team to a 3-0 start. Upon Meyer's return, the Buckeyes secured four more wins before losing to Purdue. They finished the regular season strong, winning their last four games, including a victory over Michigan and securing the Big Ten East Division title. They won the Big Ten Championship against Northwestern and the Rose Bowl against Washington.
November 9, 2019: Big Ten Match-up Results Table Updated
The table reflecting Big Ten matchup results was updated as of November 9, 2019.
2019: Chase Young Named Big Ten MVP
In 2019, Chase Young (DE) was named the Big Ten Most Valuable Player.
2019: Undefeated Regular Season and Playoff Appearance
In 2019, Day led the Buckeyes to an undefeated 13-0 regular season, including victories over Michigan and Wisconsin in the Big Ten Championship. They reached the College Football Playoff but lost to Clemson in the Fiesta Bowl.
2019: Ryan Day's First Season
In 2019, Ryan Day began his tenure as head coach.
2020: Justin Fields Named Big Ten MVP
In 2020, Justin Fields (QB) was named the Big Ten Most Valuable Player.
2020: NCAA Approves No. 0 and Ohio State Starts New Tradition
In 2020, after the NCAA approved the use of jersey number 0, Ohio State established a new tradition of selecting a player each season to wear the number in honor of Bill Willis.
September 11, 2021: First Regular Season Loss Under Day
On September 11, 2021, Ryan Day experienced his first regular season loss as head coach against Oregon.
January 1, 2022: Rose Bowl Victory
On January 1, 2022, the Buckeyes won the Rose Bowl against Utah.
November 26, 2022: Loss to Michigan and Playoff Loss to Georgia
On November 26, 2022, Ohio State lost to Michigan in Columbus for the first time since 2000, marking their second consecutive loss to their rival. They then played in the national semifinal game against Georgia, where they lost after a missed field goal in the final seconds.
December 29, 2023: Cotton Bowl Loss to Missouri
On December 29, 2023, Ohio State lost to Missouri in the Cotton Bowl.
2023: End of Big Ten Divisional Era
From 2011 to 2023, the Big Ten used a divisional format.
2023: Close Loss to Georgia in National Semifinal
Ohio State's 2022 season ended with a narrow loss to Georgia in the national semifinal on New Year's Eve 2022, going into 2023.
2024: Ohio State Leads Series Against Penn State
As of the 2024 season, Ohio State leads the series against Penn State 25-14.
2024: End of Big Ten Divisions
The Big Ten's divisional format ended in 2024.
