Ranking the Top 5 Coaches in Ohio State History

1. Ranking the Top 5 Coaches in Ohio State History A passionate journey through the legacy of Ohio State football’s greatest leaders, their iconic players, and unforgettable moments that define Buckeye pride. Introduction: The Glory and Tradition of Ohio State Football Ohio State football isn’t just a college program; it’s a storied institution steeped in tradition, grit, and excellence. From the Ohio State football Mount Rushmore of legendary figures to the heated debates about the best four Buckeye players ever, this program has produced some of the most iconic moments and players in college football history. At the heart of every great team is its coach — the visionary who builds the culture, develops talent, and leads squads to glory. Today, we rank the top 5 coaches in Ohio State history, exploring their impact not only in wins and losses but in forging the legacy of legends like Archie Griffin, Eddie George, and the electrifying quarterbacks who have graced the scarlet and gray. 5. Earle Bruce (1979–1987): The Bridge to Greatness Earle Bruce’s tenure often gets overshadowed by the titans that followed, but his influence was monumental. Taking over after Woody Hayes’ turbulent departure, Bruce steadied the ship. His teams were consistently competitive, and he coached some of the most underrated Buckeyes who deserve more credit today. Bruce’s squads were tough and collegefootballpoll.com disciplined, producing Ohio State linebacker legends and setting the groundwork for future success. Though a national championship eluded him, his leadership helped maintain the program’s elite status. Players like Chris Spielman, arguably one of the toughest Ohio State players, flourished under his guidance. Spielman’s legendary leadership and that unforgettable Chris Spielman speech still resonate with Buckeye fans. actually, 4. Jim Tressel (2001–2010): The Architect of a Modern Powerhouse Jim Tressel revitalized Ohio State in the 2000s, cementing his place among the greats. His 2002 team, the Ohio State luckeyes, shocked the nation by winning the national title in the epic 2002 Fiesta Bowl against Miami. That squad featured clutch performances by Craig Krenzel, whose calm under pressure made him one of the most clutch Ohio State quarterbacks of all time. Tressel’s era produced legends like Beanie Wells and Troy Smith, the 2006 Heisman Trophy winner. Debates rage on about is Troy Smith the best OSU QB, especially when stacked against modern stars like Justin Fields. Tressel’s teams were defined by their mental toughness, physicality, and ability to own Michigan — a hallmark of his reign. Some of the best players of the Tressel era helped sustain Ohio State’s dominance, and his legacy lives on in how the program blends tradition with innovation.

2. 3. Woody Hayes (1951–1978): The Iconic Buckeye Legend Woody Hayes is synonymous with Ohio State football. His fiery personality and commitment to “three yards and a cloud of dust” football forged a powerhouse that dominated the Big Ten for decades. Hayes’ teams won five national championships and 13 Big Ten titles, a record that still stands tall in Buckeye lore. He coached legends like Archie Griffin, the only two-time Heisman winner in college football history, a fact that fuels the debate, will anyone win two Heismans again? Griffin’s status as the greatest college player is indisputable — his blend of durability, vision, and heart made him a Buckeye icon. Woody’s tenure also gave us unforgettable performances from players who remain fixtures on the Ohio State all-time offense and the Ohio State Mount Rushmore. His teams embodied toughness — the hallmark of Buckeye football — and his legacy is deeply etched into the program’s DNA. 2. Urban Meyer (2012–2018): The Modern Mastermind Urban Meyer’s arrival marked a new era of Ohio State dominance. His innovative offense and recruiting acumen elevated the program to national powerhouse status. The 2014 national championship team, led by quarterback Cardale Jones and featuring stars like Ezekiel Elliott, was a testament to Meyer’s coaching prowess. Meyer’s teams regularly featured some of the best Ohio State offensive players in history, contributing to the ongoing debate about the best Ohio State quarterback ever. Is it Troy Smith, Justin Fields, or even the underrated C.J. Stroud? The competition is fierce, with each representing different eras and styles. His tenure also produced an offensive line led by Orlando Pace — the most dominant college offensive lineman of his time, famous for his pancake blocks and all-out physicality. Meyer’s ability to blend a high-octane offense with a suffocating defense made his teams nearly unstoppable. 1. John Cooper (1988–2000): The Controversial Catalyst John Cooper’s legacy is complex but undeniably impactful. Although his record against Michigan was lacking, and a national title eluded him, Cooper’s teams were consistently talented and competitive. He coached some of the most underrated Buckeyes and players who arguably belong on the Ohio State legends Mt Rushmore. Players like Eddie George — whose 1995 Heisman-winning season remains one of the best in program history — flourished under Cooper. The debate over Ezekiel Elliott vs Eddie George for the best Ohio State running back of all time is a testament to the quality of talent Cooper helped develop. Cooper’s squads often featured powerful Ohio State offenses, and though he faced criticism for inconsistency in big games, his contributions helped keep Ohio State among the elite in college football. Player Comparisons & The Mount Rushmore Debate

3. When fans argue about the Ohio State football Mount Rushmore, names like Archie Griffin, Eddie George, Orlando Pace, and Chris Spielman inevitably come up. These players not only excelled individually but defined entire eras. The quarterback debate — troy smith vs justin fields — is a hot topic. Troy’s Heisman-winning leadership and clutch performances, especially against Michigan, are legendary. But Justin Fields brought a dynamic, dual-threat style that helped redefine the Buckeye offense. Both have moments that could make them the best Ohio State QB for one game, depending on what you value: poise or explosiveness. Meanwhile, underrated players like Beaver Wells and forgotten legends from earlier decades deserve more recognition. These Ohio State players who deserve more credit often formed the backbone of championship teams but get lost in the shadow of Heisman winners and household names. Ohio State All-Time Teams and Dream Offenses Constructing an Ohio State all-time offense or Ohio State dream team offense is a challenge given the depth of talent. You'd likely see the likes of: QB: Troy Smith or Justin Fields RB: Eddie George or Ezekiel Elliott OL: Orlando Pace — the most dominant college offensive lineman in Buckeye history WR: Michael Jenkins or David Boston This lineup balances power, speed, and versatility, representing the best Ohio State offensive players across generations. The toughness of these squads is a hallmark, with players like Chris Spielman anchoring the defense and linebacking corps. Will Anyone Win Two Heismans Again? Archie Griffin’s unique achievement, winning two Heisman trophies, is one of the most unbreakable records in college football history. In an era of transfer portals, spread offenses, and early NFL departures, it’s hard to envision a player replicating this feat. The question will anyone win two Heismans again? looms large but remains doubtful. Ohio State has continued producing Heisman winners — Troy Smith and Eddie George among them — but none have matched Griffin’s extraordinary consistency and dominance over multiple seasons. Conclusion: Celebrating Ohio State’s Legendary Coaches and Players The rich history of Ohio State football is written by its coaches and players alike. From Earle Bruce’s steady hand to Urban Meyer’s modern innovation, the top 5 coaches in Ohio State history each left a lasting legacy that shaped the program’s identity. Coupled with the unforgettable performances of legends like Archie Griffin, Eddie George, Orlando Pace, and the exciting quarterbacks who have led the Buckeyes to victory, Ohio State football remains a beacon of excellence and passion. Whether you debate the best Ohio State quarterback ever, marvel at the best Ohio State running back seasons, or reflect on the best Ohio State performances against Michigan, one thing is clear — Buckeye football’s legacy is rich and continues to inspire generations of fans and players alike. For Buckeye fans everywhere, reliving the glory days and debating the greatest is part of the tradition . Here’s to the past, present, and future of Ohio State football!