LATEST UPDATE: Bronze Statue of Ohio State Buckeyes Legend Archie Griffin Revealed, Commemorating His Historic Contributions to…
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Ohio State Unveils Bronze Statue Honoring Archie Griffin, College Football’s Only Two-Time Heisman Winner
Columbus, Ohio – August 30, 2024 — In a heartfelt ceremony held under the rotunda of Ohio Stadium, The Ohio State University unveiled a bronze statue honoring Archie Griffin, the only two-time Heisman Trophy winner in college football history. This tribute coincides with the 50th anniversary of Griffin’s first Heisman win in 1974, celebrating his enduring legacy both on and off the field .
A Monument to Excellence
Standing seven feet tall and weighing approximately 5,000 pounds, the statue captures Griffin in his iconic No. 45 jersey, executing a classic stiff-arm pose reminiscent of his dynamic playing style. Renowned sculptor Brian Hanlon, known for his sports monuments, designed the statue to embody the energy and determination that defined Griffin’s career .
This statue is a replica of one previously unveiled at the Rose Bowl Stadium in Pasadena, California, earlier this month. The Rose Bowl’s version stands adjacent to the East Bridge near Tunnel 28, serving as the centerpiece of the newly established Heisman Legends Walk, which honors the 19 Heisman Trophy winners who have competed in the Rose Bowl Game .
Celebrating a Storied Career
Archie Griffin’s collegiate career at Ohio State from 1972 to 1975 is marked by remarkable achievements. He rushed for a then-NCAA record of 5,589 yards, led the Buckeyes to four consecutive Big Ten titles, and became the first player to start in four Rose Bowl Games .
Griffin’s accolades include:
Two Heisman Trophies (1974, 1975)
Three-time All-American honors
Two-time Big Ten Most Valuable Player awards
Induction into both the College Football Hall of Fame and the Rose Bowl Hall of Fame
Beyond his athletic prowess, Griffin has been lauded for his humility and leadership. He served as the president and CEO of The Ohio State University Alumni Association from 2004 to 2015 and established the Archie Griffin Scholarship Fund to support undergraduates in Olympic sports .
A Community’s Tribute
The dedication ceremony at Ohio Stadium was attended by hundreds, including university officials, former teammates, and fans. Ohio State President Walter “Ted” Carter Jr. praised Griffin, stating, “As college football’s only two-time Heisman Trophy winner, and as president and CEO of the Alumni Association, Archie has always represented the best of what being a Buckeye is all about” .
Head football coach Ryan Day highlighted Griffin’s enduring influence, remarking, “It’s an unbelievable example to our players about the impact you’ve made in the community, the charities you’ve supported. To see the statue being unveiled today is a great representation of the legacy that you’ve left, and you will continue to leave as we move forward” .
Griffin, ever modest, emphasized the collective effort behind his success. “I hope when people see this statue, they think about the great teams we had the four years I played and not just the guy who wore No. 45 and got too much credit,” he said .
A Lasting Legacy
The statue at Ohio Stadium not only commemorates Griffin’s individual achievements but also serves as a symbol of inspiration for future generations. “I love the idea that Buckeye fans might stop by to visit before a game, or talk to future generations of Buckeyes about the great teams that I played on,” Griffin expressed .
As Ohio State continues to honor its storied history, the statue of Archie Griffin stands as a testament to excellence, humility, and the enduring spirit of the Buckeye community.
