A passionate fan’s deep dive into Ohio State’s most dominant defensive duo, ranking legends, quarterback debates, and the all-time Buckeye dream team.
Ohio State Football Mount Rushmore: Where Do the Bosa Brothers Fit In?
When discussing the Ohio State football Mount Rushmore, names like Archie Griffin, Eddie George, Orlando Pace, and Chris Spielman often dominate the conversation. These legends embody the rich history and tradition that make OSU football one of the most storied programs in college football.
But in the modern era, arguably no defensive players have captured the Buckeye spirit quite like Nikola and Joey Bosa. Both left an indelible mark on Ohio State’s defense, redefining the edge rusher position and inspiring future generations. The question remains: Who was the better Buckeye?
The Bosa Brothers: A Tale of Two Dominant Defenders
Nikola Bosa burst onto the scene in 2013 as a freshman phenom, immediately impacting the Buckeyes’ defensive front. His relentless motor, combined with his refined technique, made him a nightmare for opposing quarterbacks. By his junior year, Nikola was a unanimous All-American and the Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year, cementing his place as one of the best Ohio State defensive players ever.
Joey Bosa, Nikola’s younger brother, followed in his footsteps but carved his own legacy. Starting in 2013 as well, Joey’s explosiveness, power, and versatility made him a force to be reckoned with. His junior year was spectacular, earning him the prestigious Bronko Nagurski Trophy and the Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year award. Joey’s impact was so profound that many consider him one of the most dominant college defensive players of his generation.
Head-to-Head: Nikola vs. Joey Bosa
Comparing brothers is always tricky, especially when both excel at such an elite level. Let’s break down some key aspects:
- Production: Joey had slightly better stats, finishing with 31.5 career sacks, while Nikola had 19.5 sacks. Joey’s knack for getting to the quarterback was unparalleled. Accolades: Both were unanimous All-Americans and Big Ten Defensive Players of the Year, but Joey also captured the Nagurski Trophy, underscoring his national dominance. Impact: Nikola’s presence helped Ohio State’s defense become one of the nation's best from 2013-2015, while Joey was a key catalyst in 2014-2016, consistently disrupting offenses and energizing the Buckeye defense.
While Joey’s numbers and national recognition might give him a slight edge, Nikola’s foundational role and consistent excellence make the debate a close one. Both belong firmly on any Ohio State legends Mt Rushmore list.
Ranking Ohio State Quarterbacks: Troy Smith vs Justin Fields and Beyond
Switching gears to the offensive side, the quarterback position has long been a hotbed for debate. The best Ohio State quarterback ever discussion inevitably circles around Troy Smith and Justin Fields.
Troy Smith’s 2006 Heisman Trophy-winning season was legendary. His ability to lead clutch Ohio State performances against Michigan and other rivals demonstrated poise and skill unmatched in his era. But is Troy Smith the best OSU QB? Many argue yes, given his leadership, stats, and sheer impact on the program.
Justin Fields, meanwhile, electrified the Buckeye offense with his dual-threat capabilities. His arm strength and mobility brought a new dimension, and his wins over Michigan and in the College Football Playoff cemented his status as one of the greats. Troy Smith vs Justin Fields is a fascinating debate fueled by different eras and play styles.
Other notable names in the ranking Ohio State quarterbacks conversation include Craig Krenzel, whose clutch performance in the 2002 Fiesta Bowl helped the Buckeyes clinch a national championship, and Dwayne Haskins, who put up jaw-dropping numbers in his short OSU tenure.
Archie Griffin: The Greatest College Player Ever?
No conversation about Ohio State legends is complete without mentioning Archie Griffin. The only two-time Heisman Trophy winner in college football history, Griffin’s impact transcends statistics.
His consistency, durability, and humility set a standard for Buckeyes everywhere. The question many fans ponder: Will anyone win two Heismans again? In an era of spread offenses and one-and-done players, it seems unlikely, solidifying Archie Griffin’s place as perhaps the greatest college player ever.
Underrated and Forgotten Ohio State Legends
While the likes of Griffin, the Bosa brothers, and Troy Smith dominate headlines, Ohio State football history is littered with underrated Ohio State players and forgotten Ohio State legends who deserve more credit.
Take, for instance, Chris Spielman, a linebacker whose toughness and leadership make him one of the toughest Ohio State players ever. His legendary Chris Spielman speech still resonates with fans and players alike. Similarly, offensive lineman Orlando Pace was a colossus, widely regarded as the most dominant college offensive lineman and a pancake-blocking machine who anchored OSU’s offensive front.
On offense, players like Beanie Wells and Craig Krenzel may not always hit Mount Rushmore status but consistently delivered, especially in moments against Michigan and other archrivals.
The Best Ohio State Running Back Seasons: Eddie George vs Ezekiel Elliott
When discussing the best Ohio State running back seasons, two names often spark passionate debates: Eddie George’s 1995 Heisman year and Ezekiel Elliott's dominant campaigns.
Eddie George’s 1995 season was a masterpiece — a bruising, consistent force who carried the Buckeye offense with power and grace. His Eddie George highlights Ohio State reels showcase a back who could do it all, earning him the Heisman Trophy and a place among the best Ohio State running backs.
Fast forward two decades, and Ezekiel Elliott brought a modern explosiveness, combining speed and vision with physicality. The Elliott vs George stats debate is a favorite among fans, with Elliott’s yards per carry and big-play ability often compared to George’s toughness and leadership.
Both backs defined their eras and remain pillars in the conversation around the best Ohio State running back ever.
Ohio State’s All-Time Offense and Dream Team
Constructing an Ohio State all-time offense or dream team offense is a glorious challenge. Between the offensive juggernauts of the Jim Tressel era and the dynamic playmakers of today, the depth is staggering.
At quarterback, the conversation often includes Troy Smith and Craig Krenzel. At running back, Archie Griffin and Eddie George are fixtures. Wide receivers like Santonio Holmes and David Boston bring electrifying playmaking to the table.
On the offensive line, Orlando Pace’s dominance places him atop the list, arguably the best Ohio State offensive lineman ever. His pancake blocks and sheer power were instrumental in OSU’s success.
This lineup reflects the best of Buckeye football’s rich history, blending toughness, skill, and championship pedigree.
The Tressel Era and the 2002 Championship Team
The era under coach Jim Tressel (2001–2010) produced some of the program’s most memorable moments and legends. The 2002 Ohio State championship team, with its defense-first mentality and clutch performances, remains a gold standard.
Led by quarterback Craig Krenzel and Informative post a ferocious defense, the 2002 Fiesta Bowl facts highlight a team that outplayed the Miami Hurricanes in a thrilling national championship game. Players like Chris Gamble and Mike Doss, along with the offensive line anchored by Steve Hutchinson, defined that squad.
The Tressel era also gave rise to a number of tressel era legends who consistently owned Michigan, including Troy Smith and Beanie Wells, who delivered some of the best Ohio State performances against Michigan.
Clutch Ohio State Quarterbacks: The Best OSU QB for One Game
Ohio State has seen many quarterbacks shine in big moments. While some had sustained excellence, others were the best Ohio State QB for one game, stepping up when it mattered most.
Craig Krenzel’s calm and clutch performance in the 2002 national championship is a prime example. Similarly, Troy Smith’s ability to dominate Michigan in key matchups speaks to his legendary status.
Even lesser-known quarterbacks have had shining moments that deserve recognition, reminding us of the depth and resilience of the Buckeye program.
Ohio State football is a tapestry woven with unforgettable legends, fierce debates, and moments of pure magic. Whether it’s the Bosa brothers redefining defense, Archie Griffin’s unmatched legacy, or the quarterback battles that keep fans talking, the Buckeye spirit endures. As passionate fans, we celebrate the past while eagerly anticipating the next chapter in this incredible saga.
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