John according to the NFF was a two-time First Team All-American and undeniably one of the most outstanding Ohio State football players of all time.

College Career:

Hicks's tenure at Ohio State from 1970 to 1973 was marked by exceptional performance and leadership. A two-time First Team All-American, he was a cornerstone of the Buckeyes' offensive line. His 1971 season was cut short by a devastating knee injury, but he returned to full form, contributing to a period of remarkable success under legendary coach Woody Hayes. During his three full years of play, the Buckeyes won a national championship in 1970 secured three Big Ten titles. Hicks made history as the first player to start in three Rose Bowls, anchoring a powerhouse Ohio State team. Despite entering each game undefeated, the Buckeyes experienced mixed results. In the 1971 Rose Bowl, they fell to Stanford 27-17. The 1973 game saw them overwhelmed by USC, 42-17. However, Hicks and the Buckeyes turned the tables in the 1974 Rose Bowl, dominating USC 42-21, with Hicks leading the way for a dominant 323-yard rushing performance. These feats led to his induction into the Rose Bowl Hall of Fame in 2009. His 1973 season was particularly remarkable, earning him unanimous All-American honors, the Lombardi Award, and the Outland Trophy, recognizing him as the nation's best interior lineman. He also finished second in the Heisman Trophy voting, a rare achievement for an offensive lineman.  

Road to the Pro Game:

Hicks's exceptional college career led to his selection by the New York Giants in the first round of the 1974 NFL Draft.  

Drafted third overall by the New York Giants in 1974, Hicks was the sole college player invited to the draft. He started every regular season game at right guard for the Giants from 1974 to 1977. In April 1978, the Giants traded him to the Pittsburgh Steelers for Jim Clack and Ernie Pough, but Hicks never played for Pittsburgh.

Football Legacy:

Hicks's football legacy is defined by his dominance on the offensive line at Ohio State. He is remembered as a key player in the Buckeyes' successful era under Woody Hayes, contributing to their national championship and Rose Bowl appearances. His numerous accolades, including the Lombardi and Outland Trophies, and his near-Heisman victory, underscore his exceptional talent and impact on the game. His induction into the College Football Hall of Fame in 2001 solidified his place among the legends of college football.  

Accolades, Awards and Career Stats:

✦ Two-time First Team All-American.  

✦ National Championship (1970).

✦ Three Big Ten Titles.

✦ Three Rose Bowl appearances.  

✦ Rose Bowl Hall of Fame Inductee (2009).  

✦ Unanimous All-American (1973).

✦ Lombardi Award (1973).  

✦ Outland Trophy (1973).  

✦ Second in Heisman Trophy Voting (1973).  

✦ First-round NFL Draft pick (New York Giants).  

✦ College Football Hall of Fame Inductee (2001).  

John Hicks's exceptional talent and contributions to Ohio State football have cemented his place as a college football legend.