Football History

John Hicks, born March 21, 1951, in Cleveland, Ohio, established himself as a dominant offensive lineman, leaving a mark on Ohio State University football and earning recognition as one of the game's all-time greats.

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.

Born June 20, 1989, in Jeannette, Pennsylvania, Terrelle Pryor's football career was a captivating blend of electrifying talent, controversy, and a remarkable transition. His journey, marked by brilliance and adversity, left a unique imprint on the sport.

-College Career

Pryor's college career at Ohio State University was nothing short of sensational. A highly touted recruit, he immediately made his presence felt as a dual-threat quarterback. His size, speed, and arm strength made him a nightmare for opposing defenses. He led the Buckeyes to two Big Ten championships and a Rose Bowl victory. However, his college career was also marred by controversy surrounding NCAA violations, ultimately leading to his suspension and early departure from Ohio State. Despite the off-field issues, his on-field performance was undeniable, showcasing his exceptional athleticism.  

-Road to the Pro Game

Pryor's path to the NFL was unconventional. Due to the NCAA sanctions, he entered the NFL Supplemental Draft in 2011, where the Oakland Raiders selected him in the third round. He initially served as a backup quarterback, but his athleticism was too compelling to ignore. The Raiders experimented with him in various roles, including wide receiver, recognizing his potential as a versatile playmaker.  

-Football Legacy

Pryor's NFL career was a testament to his adaptability and resilience. He transitioned from quarterback to wide receiver, a rare feat in professional football. He displayed flashes of brilliance, particularly during his 2016 season with the Cleveland Browns, where he recorded over 1,000 receiving yards. His ability to make contested catches and his explosive speed made him a dangerous threat. While injuries hampered his career, his determination to reinvent himself was remarkable. His legacy is one of a player who possessed immense potential and who dared to challenge conventional expectations.  

-Accolades, Awards and Career Stats

-Big Ten Offensive Player of the Year (2010)

-Rose Bowl MVP (2010)  

-NFL Career Stats:

-Passing: 2,332 yards, 9 touchdowns

-Receiving: 115 receptions, 1,563 yards, seven touchdowns

Terrelle Pryor's career is a study in contrasts. His college dominance was followed by controversy, and his NFL journey was marked by a remarkable position change. While his career may not have reached its full potential, his impact as a dual-threat phenomenon and his willingness to adapt solidified his place in football history.

Randy Gradishar, born on March 3, 1952, in Warren, Ohio, established himself as one of the most dominant linebackers in NFL history, primarily known for his exceptional play with the Denver Broncos.

-College Career

-Gradishar's collegiate career flourished at Ohio State University, where he played linebacker under legendary coach Woody Hayes.

-He was a key member of the Buckeyes' renowned "Silver Bullet" defense, known for its toughness and discipline.

-His outstanding performance at Ohio State earned him recognition as one of the nation's top linebackers, setting the stage for his successful professional career.

-Road to the Pro Game

-the Denver Broncos selected Randy Gradishar in the first round of the 1974 NFL Draft.

-He spent his entire 10-year NFL career with the Broncos, becoming a cornerstone of their defense.

-His leadership and exceptional play were instrumental in the Broncos' rise to prominence in the late 1970s and early 1980s.

-Football Legacy

-Randy Gradishar's legacy is defined by his exceptional play at linebacker and his contributions to the Denver Broncos' "Orange Crush" defense.

-He was known for his intelligence, instincts, and tackling ability, making him one of the most feared linebackers of his era.

-His consistent performance and leadership helped the Broncos reach Super Bowl XII.

-His long wait for hall of fame induction, has also been a part of his legacy, with many fans feeling he should have been inducted years earlier.

-His induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2024, has finally cemented his legacy.

**Accolades, Awards and Career Stats:

-Pro Football Hall of Fame inductee (2024)

-NFL Defensive Player of the Year (1978).

-2× First-team All-Pro (1977, 1978).

-3× Second-team All-Pro (1979, 1981, 1983).

-7× Pro Bowl selection (1975, 1977–1979, 1981–1983).

-He amassed a remarkable number of tackles throughout his career, becoming known for a very high number of tackles.

Born April 14, 1999, Chase Young's football journey has been defined by his exceptional pass-rushing abilities, transitioning from a college superstar to a promising NFL talent.

-College Career

Young's college career at Ohio State University was nothing short of spectacular. He established himself as one of the most dominant defensive players in college football history. His combination of size, speed, and power made him a nightmare for opposing offensive lines. In his junior season, he recorded a staggering 16.5 sacks, earning him unanimous All-American honors and the prestigious Bronko Nagurski Trophy. He was a key component of the Buckeyes' defense, contributing significantly to their success.  

-Road to the Pro Game

Young's dominant college performance made him a highly coveted prospect in the 2020 NFL Draft. The Washington Redskins (now Commanders) selected him with the second overall pick, recognizing his potential to be a game-changing edge rusher.  

-Football Legacy

Flashes of brilliance and challenges with injuries have marked Young's NFL career. He won the Defensive Rookie of the Year award, demonstrating his immediate impact. However, a significant knee injury hampered his progress. When healthy, his pass-rushing prowess is undeniable, and he possesses the potential to be a dominant force in the league. Traded to the 49ers during the 2023 season, he looks to restart his career. His legacy is still being written, and his potential to be a Hall of Fame caliber player is still in reach.  

-Accolades, Awards and Career Stats

-Bronko Nagurski Trophy (2019)  

-Chuck Bednarik Award (2019)  

-Unanimous All-American (2019)  

-Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year (2019)

-NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year (2020)  

-NFL Career Stats (through the 2023 Season):

-Sacks: 16.5
 
-Tackles: 93

-Forced Fumbles: 6

Chase Young's career is a story of immense talent and the challenges of professional football. His college dominance and early NFL success showcase his potential, and he continues to strive to make a significant impact in the league.

Dante Bert Joseph Lavelli, born on February 23, 1923, in Hudson, Ohio, forged a legendary football career, particularly with the Cleveland Browns. His exceptional hands and clutch performances earned him the nickname "Gluefingers" and a place in the Pro Football Hall of Fame.  

-College Career

-Lavelli's college football journey began at Ohio State University.  

-His service in World War 2 impacted his time at Ohio State.  

-Dante was a member of the 1942 national championship Ohio State team.  

-Road to the Pro Game

-After serving in the U.S. Army during World War II, Lavelli joined the Cleveland Browns in 1946.  

-He played for the Browns in the All-America Football Conference (AAFC) and then in the NFL when the leagues merged.  

-His ability to connect with quarterback Otto Graham became a hallmark of the Browns' offensive prowess.  

-Football Legacy


-Lavelli was a key component of the dominant Cleveland Browns teams that achieved remarkable success in the late 1940s and 1950s.  

-He was known for his reliable hands, his ability to make crucial catches, and his contributions to the Browns' championship-winning teams.  

-Dante's legacy is one of a player who consistently delivered in high-pressure situations, solidifying his place among the greatest receivers in football history.  

-He also helped to form the National Football League Players Association.  

-Accolades, Awards and Career Stats

-Pro Football Hall of Fame inductee (1975)  

-3× NFL champion (1950, 1954, 1955)  

-4× AAFC champion (1946–1949)

-3× First-team All-Pro

-3× Pro Bowl

His career stats include:

-386 receptions  

-6,488 receiving yards  

-62 receiving touchdowns  

Dante Lavelli's career is a testament to his skill, dedication, and impact on the game of football.

Born November 25, 1965, in Troy, Ohio, Cris Carter's football journey, marked by challenges and triumphs, culminated in a Hall of Fame career. His exceptional talent and unwavering dedication solidified his place as one of the NFL's most excellent receivers.  

-College Career

Carter's collegiate career at Ohio State University showcased his natural talent. He was a key part of the Buckeyes' offense, demonstrating his exceptional hands and route-running ability. However, his college career was also marked by off-field issues, ultimately leading to his early departure from the program.  

-Road to the Pro Game

Despite the challenges, Carter's talent was undeniable. The Philadelphia Eagles selected him in the fourth round of the 1987 NFL Supplemental Draft. However, his career blossomed after joining the Minnesota Vikings in 1990.  

-Football Legacy

Carter's tenure with the Vikings defined his career. He became a prolific receiver, known for his incredible hands, precise route running, and ability to make clutch catches. He formed a dynamic partnership with quarterback Randall Cunningham and later with Brad Johnson and Daunte Culpepper, becoming one of the most reliable targets in the NFL. His ability to catch nearly everything thrown his way earned him the nickname "Cris Carter, he makes the catch." Beyond his on-field performance, Carter was a respected leader and a mentor to younger players.

-Accolades, Awards and Career Stats

-Pro Football Hall of Fame Inductee (2013)

-8x Pro Bowl selection

-2x First-team All-Pro

-NFL 1990s All-Decade Team

Career Stats:

-1,101 receptions  

-13,899 receiving yards

-130 touchdowns

Cris Carter's legacy extends beyond his impressive statistics. He overcame adversity, demonstrating resilience and dedication. He became a role model for countless athletes, proving that with hard work and determination, even the greatest challenges can be overcome.

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Born February 14, 1913, in Clifton, Ohio, was the Ohio State University coaching legend Wayne Woodrow Hayes. We know him better as Woody Hayes, the Buckeyes frontman from 1951 through 1978. Woody was a prominent personality, and he commanded attention. The Buckeyes led the nation in home attendance in 21 of Woody’s 28 years at OSU. Hayes’s offensive football strategy was the old “Three Yards and a Cloud of Dust.” and credit Woody with creating the phrase.

The Buckeyes, under Woody Hayes, took the National Championship title in 1954, 1957, 1961, 1968, and 1970. Hayes’ coaching produced 3 Heisman Trophy winners and 51 first-team All-America selections.

He wasn’t without controversy, though, as Hayes had a well-earned reputation for losing his temper. There was when he shoved a cameraman at the Rose Bowl and destroyed the sideline markers near the end of a loss to Michigan. But his biggest tirade was his infamous punching of a Clemson player in the Gator Bowl on December 29, 1978. An action that ended Hayes’ long-tenured coaching career. Woody was enshrined into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1983.

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Born March 24, 1981 in Canton, Ohio, Mike Doss, a hard-hitting safety, left an indelible mark on both his college and professional football careers. His relentless style of play and leadership qualities made him a valuable asset to every team he represented.  

-College Career

Doss's college career at Ohio State University was nothing short of legendary. He was a key member of the Buckeyes' dominant defense, known for his physicality and playmaking ability. He was a three-time All-American and a vital part of the 2002 national championship team. His leadership and consistent performance made him a fan favorite and a respected figure in the Big Ten.  

-Road to the Pro Game

Doss's stellar college performance made him a highly regarded prospect in the 2003 NFL Draft. He was selected by the Indianapolis Colts in the second round. His hard-hitting style was expected to translate well to the professional level.  

-Football Legacy

Doss played for the Indianapolis Colts and the Minnesota Vikings during his NFL career. While injuries hampered his professional tenure, his impact was undeniable. He was a key contributor to the Colts' defense during their early 2000s success. His aggressive play and leadership qualities were evident throughout his time in the NFL. Although his pro career was cut short, his college legacy remains strong.  

-Accolades, Awards and Career Stats

-3x All-American (Ohio State)  

-National Champion (Ohio State, 2002)  

-NFL Career Stats:

-331 career tackles  

-Eight interceptions

-Eight fumbles recovered

-Six quarterback sacks

Mike Doss's legacy is defined by his dominant college career and his hard-nosed play in the NFL. He was a defensive force whose impact extended beyond the stat sheet.

The epic clash between the Michigan Wolverines and the Ohio State Buckeyes transcends mere football; it's a cultural touchstone in college athletics. With countless memorable games over their 119-year history, choosing the "top" is subjective, but here are some contenders that stand out for their drama, significance, and sheer brilliance:

1. "The Game of the Century" (2006): Both teams entered undefeated and ranked #1 and #2 respectively, setting the stage for an epic showdown. In a seesaw battle, Ohio State edged out Michigan 42-39, securing a national championship berth and etching this game in rivalry lore.

2. "The Ten Year War" Era (1969-1978): This decade embodied the intensity of the rivalry with legendary coaches Woody Hayes (Ohio State) and Bo Schembechler (Michigan) at the helm. Games were close and fiercely contested, with several notable ones:

-1969: Unranked Michigan upset #12 Ohio State 24-12, snapping a Buckeye winning streak and igniting the "Ten Year War."

-1973: #4 Michigan faced #1 Ohio State in a 10-10 tie, showcasing incredible defensive battles and missed opportunities.

3. The "Snow Bowl" (1950): Amidst a blizzard, #8 Ohio State refused to postpone the game against unranked Michigan. In brutal conditions, both teams fought valiantly, with Ohio State ultimately prevailing 7-3. This game became a legend for its perseverance and unique circumstances.

4. The "Tresselgate" Upset (2010): Unranked Michigan stunned #1 Ohio State 37-7, fueled by the Buckeyes' NCAA violations scandal involving coach Jim Tressel. This upset solidified the rivalry's unpredictability and the power of underdog narratives.

5. Recent Dominance (2016-Present): Although Ohio State has dominated this period, two games stand out:

2016: A double-overtime thriller saw Ohio State edge out #3 Michigan 30-27, showcasing exceptional plays and nail-biting tension.

2022: Michigan finally broke the Buckeye winning streak with a dominant 42-27 victory, marking a significant moment in the rivalry's current landscape.

These are just a few highlights in a rivalry rich with unforgettable moments

The 1969 Ohio State at Michigan game is one of my all-time favorites, and here it is preserved on video by video Dailymotion.

-The Upset for the Ages: The 1969 Ohio State vs. Michigan Football Game

The crisp air of a November afternoon in Ann Arbor hung heavy with anticipation. On one side stood the #1 ranked Ohio State Buckeyes, a seemingly unstoppable force led by the legendary coach Woody Hayes. On the other, the #12 ranked Michigan Wolverines, a team hungry for an upset and a chance to derail the Buckeyes' national championship dreams. This wasn't just a game; it was the 1969 Ohio State vs. Michigan clash, a contest destined to be remembered as the "Upset for the Ages."

The Buckeyes entered the game boasting a 22-game winning streak and an aura of invincibility. Quarterback Rex Kern led a powerful offense, while Jim Stillwagon anchored a ferocious defense. Michigan, under the leadership of first-year coach Bo Schembechler, was a team in transition. Yet, fueled by a desire to end Ohio State's dominance and fueled by Schembechler's pre-game challenge to "take it to them," the Wolverines entered the field with a fire in their eyes.

The game unfolded in a whirlwind of emotion. Early turnovers plagued both sides, but the tension was palpable. The Buckeyes struck first with a touchdown, but the Wolverines responded with a vengeance. Quarterback Don Moorhead orchestrated a scoring drive, culminating in a touchdown catch by Garvie Craw. This set the tone for a back-and-forth battle.

Michigan's defense, led by the opportunistic Barry Pierson who snagged three interceptions, stymied the Buckeye offense. Meanwhile, the Wolverines capitalized on their chances. A punt return touchdown by Pierson and another touchdown by Craw gave them a surprising 14-12 lead at halftime. The Big House erupted in a cacophony of cheers, the momentum shifting decisively towards the underdog.

The second half mirrored the first, a tense struggle for control. Ohio State clawed their way back with a safety, but Michigan refused to relent. Their defense continued to disrupt the Buckeyes, forcing crucial turnovers and stifling their offensive rhythm. The final score remained 24-12, a testament to the Wolverines' grit and resilience.

The 1969 Ohio State vs. Michigan game wasn't just a defeat for the Buckeyes; it marked the beginning of a legendary coaching rivalry between Woody Hayes and Bo Schembechler, a rivalry that would define the Big Ten conference for years to come. More importantly, it became a symbol of the underdog's spirit, a reminder that with passion, determination, and a well-executed game plan, even the most formidable giants can be toppled.