COLUMBUS, Ohio – A new statue honoring Ohio State football legend Archie Griffin was unveiled at Ohio Stadium, commemorating his unmatched legacy and lasting impact on the university, college football, and generations of Buckeye fans. The ceremony, held at the stadium’s Rotunda, drew a large crowd that included Griffin’s family, former teammates from Ohio State and Eastmoor High School, university leaders, donors, and loyal fans from across Buckeye Nation.
The statue is a replica of the one recently dedicated at the Rose Bowl in Pasadena, California, recognizing Griffin’s distinction as the only two-time Heisman Trophy winner in history. He is also one of just two players ever to start in four Rose Bowl games, and was honored as the Rose Bowl’s All-Century Player. The Rose Bowl Legacy Foundation generously donated the replica statue to Ohio State, further linking Griffin’s legacy to two of college football’s most storied venues.
During the dedication, Griffin delivered heartfelt remarks, expressing deep gratitude to Ohio State fans who have supported him throughout his career and life. “You showed me the greatest affection when I became number 45,” Griffin said, acknowledging the powerful bond he shares with Buckeye Nation. He emphasized how meaningful it is that the statue will now stand as a permanent reminder of those connections, inviting future generations to learn about the teams he played on and the history he helped shape.
The event featured speeches from university leaders including President Ted Carter, Athletics Director Ross Bjork, Rose Bowl Legacy Foundation President Dedan Brozino, and Griffin himself. All emphasized Griffin’s excellence not just on the football field, but in his lifelong commitment to service, leadership, and giving back. Among his many contributions is a scholarship fund in his name that supports Ohio State student-athletes and helps carry forward his spirit of generosity.
Griffin’s football achievements remain legendary. He won the Heisman Trophy in 1974 after rushing for 1,695 yards and leading Ohio State to another Big Ten championship. In 1975, he made history again by winning a second Heisman—something no one else has ever done. By the end of his college career, Griffin had rushed for 5,589 yards, a record that still stands at Ohio State. He was a key figure on dominant teams that went undefeated against archrival Michigan, prompting Coach Woody Hayes to call him “the best football player I’ve ever seen—and an even better man.”
After college, Griffin played seven seasons in the NFL with the Cincinnati Bengals. He later returned to Ohio State, serving in multiple leadership roles, including as President of the Alumni Association. His accolades include the NCAA Top V Award, induction into both the College Football and Rose Bowl Halls of Fame, and inclusion among the NCAA’s 100 Most Influential Student-Athletes.
Griffin now joins fellow Ohio State icons Jesse Owens and Woody Hayes with statues on campus. His jersey number, 45, was retired in 1999. The statue outside Ohio Stadium stands as a tribute to his greatness and a lasting symbol of the love between Archie Griffin and Buckeye Nation.
