Ohio State
One of the most talked-about moments in Ohio State history was the 2003 national championship game against heavily favored Miami. The Buckeyes, led by coach Jim Tressel and quarterback Craig Krenzel, entered the game as a significant underdog against the powerhouse Miami team, which had not lost a game in two years. Ohio State’s defense, known as the Silver Bullets, had their hands full with Miami’s star-studded offense, which included future NFL players such as Willis McGahee, Kellen Winslow Jr., and Sean Taylor.
In a nail-biting finish, Ohio State pulled off the upset in double overtime with a game-winning touchdown pass from Krenzel to wide receiver Michael Jenkins. This victory not only secured Ohio State’s first national championship since 1968, but it also ended Miami’s 34-game winning streak. The Buckeyes showed the world that when it comes to college football, anything is possible.
Another significant upset in Ohio State history came in 2014, when they faced the top-ranked Alabama Crimson Tide in the Sugar Bowl. Despite being the underdogs once again, Ohio State came out strong and beat Alabama 42-35 in a thrilling back-and-forth game. This victory put Ohio State in the national championship game against Oregon, where they would eventually win their eighth national title.
But it wasn’t just in football that Ohio State made historic upsets and wins. Their men’s basketball team has also had its fair share of memorable moments. In 1960, Ohio State faced off against California in the NCAA Championship Game. Led by two-time All-American and future NBA Hall of Famer Jerry Lucas, the Buckeyes won 75-55, securing Ohio State’s first men’s basketball national championship. This win was particularly significant as it came against a heavily favored California team that had beaten Ohio State earlier in the season.
Fast forward to 2007, when Ohio State faced off against the University of Notre Dame in the second round of the NCAA tournament. Despite being the lower-ranked team, Ohio State came out firing on all cylinders, eventually beating Notre Dame 64-51 and advancing to the Sweet 16. This upset was significant as Notre Dame was a traditional college basketball powerhouse, and Ohio State’s victory showed the world that they were a force to be reckoned with on the court.
Apart from these historic upsets, Ohio State has also had its fair share of record-breaking wins. In men’s basketball, they hold the record for the most regular-season Big Ten Conference championships, with 21 titles. They have also been to the NCAA tournament a record 31 times and have the most tournament wins by a Big Ten team.
Their football program is just as impressive, with the most Big Ten Conference championships of any team, with 39 titles. Ohio State also holds the record for the most Rose Bowl appearances of any team, with 15 trips.
But it’s not just about the wins on the field or court that make these moments so significant. Ohio State’s fans, known as Buckeye Nation, play a vital role in the team’s success. Their unwavering support and passion for their beloved Buckeyes have helped them overcome many obstacles and achieve historic victories.
Where sports news and headlines change by the minute, it’s essential to take a step back and appreciate the timeless moments in sports history. The historic upsets and wins of Ohio State will always be remembered, not only by their fans but also by sports enthusiasts across the country. And as the Ohio State motto says, Forward Ever, Fear Never, we can expect many more memorable moments from this top-ranked university in the years to come.
Topics: