Ohio State’s Most Iconic Plays of the Century
When it comes to college football, few programs have a richer history than Ohio State. From thrilling victories to heart-stopping moments, the Buckeyes have given fans countless reasons to cheer over the years. Recently, a lively debate erupted on social media about the top plays in Ohio State history, and we’re diving into the top 10 most unforgettable moments of the century.
The Countdown Begins
Coming in at number 10 is Braxton Miller’s Hail Mary touchdown pass against Wisconsin in 2011. This miraculous play set the tone for the Buckeyes’ high-powered offense and showcased Miller’s incredible athleticism.
National Championship Magic
The number 9 spot belongs to Joey Bosa’s walk-off sack against Penn State in 2014, a game that ultimately propelled Ohio State to a national championship. This dominant defensive performance cemented Bosa’s status as one of the greatest Buckeye defenders of all time.
Reverse Engineering Victory
Evan Spencer’s reverse touchdown pass to Michael Thomas before halftime against Alabama in 2014 takes the number 8 spot. This clever play call caught the Crimson Tide off guard and gave Ohio State the momentum they needed to secure a crucial College Football Playoff victory.
Late-Game Heroics
Troy Smith’s late-game touchdown against Michigan in the “Game of the Century” in 2006 earns the number 7 spot. This clutch performance helped the Buckeyes secure a national title berth and solidified Smith’s reputation as a big-game quarterback.
Game-Saving Plays
Tyvis Powell’s game-saving interception on a two-point conversion attempt against Michigan in 2013 takes the number 6 spot. This defensive gem preserved a narrow Buckeye victory and showcased Powell’s exceptional instincts.
Setting Up Success
Curtis Samuel’s crucial 3rd-and-9 conversion against Michigan in 2016, which set up JT Barrett’s game-winning 4th-and-1 conversion, comes in at number 5. This often-overlooked play demonstrated Samuel’s reliability in high-pressure situations.
Buckeye Brilliance
The “Holy Buckeye” play against Purdue in 2002, which helped secure a national championship, takes the number 4 spot. This unforgettable moment showcased the Buckeyes’ ability to make the impossible possible.
Strip 6 Sensation
Jack Sawyer’s Strip 6 against Texas in 2025, a play that’s still fresh in fans’ minds, earns the number 3 spot. This electrifying defensive play has already become an instant classic in Ohio State lore.
Ezekiel Elliott’s Masterpiece
Ezekiel Elliott’s 85-yard touchdown run against Alabama in 2014, which helped secure a national championship, takes the number 2 spot. This breathtaking display of speed, power, and elusiveness cemented Elliott’s status as one of the greatest Buckeye running backs of all time.
The Ultimate Game-Changer
Maurice Clarett’s game-changing fumble recovery against Miami in the 2002 national championship game takes the top spot. This unforgettable play turned the tide of the game and secured Ohio State’s national title.
Honorable Mentions
While these plays didn’t make the top 10, they’re still worthy of recognition: Braxton Miller’s spin move against Virginia Tech, Noah Brown’s touchdown catch against Oklahoma, Justin Fields’ touchdown pass to Chris Olave against Clemson, and several other game-changing moments that have become ingrained in Ohio State football history.
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