The Greatest Players in Ohio State Football History

Ohio State University holds a rich tradition in college football and has produced many quality players over the years. The Buckeyes are a member of the Big Ten Conference and have won seven National Titles, 34 Conference titles and boast seven Heisman Trophy winners. The top three greatest players in Ohio State football history are Eddie George, Chris Spielman and Archie Griffin.

No. 3: Eddie George, RB, (1992 - 1995)

Eddie George had both the size and the speed that made him the complete running back for the Buckeyes. He held the school's single-season record for rushing yards with 1,927 yards, the single-game record of 314 yards and had 12 games with 100 yards and more in a single season. He ranks second in Buckeye history in terms of rushing touchdowns in a season, with 24. Eddie George was named the Heisman Trophy winner in 1995. He ended his career at Ohio State with 3,768 rushing yards and 44 touchdowns.

No. 2: Chris Spielman, LB, (1984 - 1987)

Spielman was known for his intense play and passion for the game of football. He holds the school record for most solo tackles, with 286 tackles, and had total tackles amounting to 546 during his career. He was named an All-Big Ten player on three occasions and was awarded the Lombardi Award in 1987. Spielman is easily the greatest defensive player in Buckeye history, and he had not only the stats to prove it, but the heart of a true fighter.

No. 1: Archie Griffin, RB, (1972 - 1975)

Archie Griffin is the only player in the history of college football to win two Heisman Trophies. That alone speaks volumes as to the quality of a player he was. He holds the career record for most rushing yards as a Buckeye, with 5,589, and another record, 32 games with 100 rushing yards or more. In each of his final three seasons, Archie Griffin rushed for more than 1,400 yards and over 26 touchdowns. The Big Ten MVP of 1973 and 1974 is one of two players to have started in four Rose Bowls.

When you are the recipient of two Heisman Trophies, there isn't much more that needs to be said about how great of a player you are. Archie Griffin's legacy continues to live on today, and we recognize him as the greatest football player in the history of Ohio State football.