Legacy and Meaning of Archie Griffin's #45 Ohio State Jersey

The Legacy of Archie Griffin's #45 Jersey at Ohio State

As one of the most legendary players in Ohio State football history, Archie Griffin left behind an incredible legacy during his time as a Buckeye. An integral part of that legacy is the iconic #45 jersey that he wore during his four years in Columbus from 1972 through 1975.

Griffin's Dominant College Career

Griffin had a simply astounding career donning the scarlet and gray. He rushed for a school record 5,589 yards and 26 touchdowns during his four seasons. But what really made Griffin a legend was becoming the only player ever to win the Heisman Trophy twice, claiming college football's most prestigious individual award in 1974 and 1975.

With Griffin leading the way, Ohio State posted a staggering 40-5-1 record during his four seasons. They won or shared four straight Big Ten titles and played in four consecutive Rose Bowls. Griffin helped cement head coach Woody Hayes' legacy of dominating the conference and punching tickets to Pasadena on a near annual basis.

Retiring #45

After a college career filled with countless records and accolades, Ohio State retired Griffin's #45 jersey in 1979 to commemorate his unprecedented accomplishments. He became just the fifth player to have his number retired by the Buckeyes.

The retirement of Griffin's jersey was a no-brainer considering his otherworldly career. By retiring #45, Ohio State rightfully recognized Griffin's legacy and immortalized one of the greatest players the program has ever seen.

#45's Continuing Legacy

Even though Griffin last suited up for Ohio State in 1975, his #45 jersey remains a resonant symbol of Buckeyes football. Ohio State proudly displays a replica of Griffin's jersey in Ohio Stadium as a permanent monument to his career.

Throughout the stadium, fans still proudly wear #45 Griffin jerseys as a way to pay homage to Ohio State royalty. His number has become synonymous with the program's storied history and tradition.

Griffin's #45 legacy even lived on when his son Adam Griffin played for the Buckeyes from 2000 to 2003. Although Adam didn't come close to matching his father's accomplishments, he left his own mark while wearing those iconic jersey numbers.

Special Moments with #45

Ohio State still finds opportunities to celebrate Archie Griffin's legacy through special moments involving his famous #45 jersey. One example came earlier this year at the 2023 spring game.

Before the game started, head coach Ryan Day brought Griffin, now a prominent Ohio State ambassador, out to midfield for the coin toss. Ohio State also invited current players whose fathers played for the Buckeyes to join Griffin for the coin toss photo.

As Griffin wore a #45 jersey for the occasion, it represented the bridge from program legends to the next generation of players. It reinforced Griffin's place in Ohio State lore, reminding current players of the tall standard they must try to live up to.

More than a Jersey Number

While it is merely a number, Archie Griffin's #45 jersey signifies so much more about Ohio State's football program. It represents one the greatest college football careers of all-time, a key figure in Buckeyes lore, and the ultimate standard for leadership on and off the field.

So whenever Ohio State fans see that #45 jersey, whether as a monument in the stadium or worn by a proud fan, it sparks memories of Archie Griffin's remarkable career and enduring connection to Buckeye Nation.

FAQs

Why did Ohio State retire Archie Griffin's #45 jersey?

Ohio State retired Griffin's #45 jersey in 1979 to recognize his unprecedented accomplishments with the Buckeyes from 1972-1975. This included becoming the only two-time Heisman Trophy winner in NCAA history after claiming the award in 1974 and 1975.

Who else has had their jersey retired by Ohio State?

Griffin became the fifth Ohio State player to have his jersey retired by the university, joining Les Horvath (#22), Vic Janowicz (#31), Howard Cassady (#40), and John Hicks (#75).

Did anyone wear #45 for Ohio State after Griffin?

Yes, Griffin's son Adam wore #45 while playing defensive back for the Buckeyes from 2000-2003. However, Adam did not come close to achieving what his famous father did at Ohio State.

Why does Ohio State continue to honor Archie Griffin and his #45 jersey?

Even though decades have passed since he played, Griffin remains one of the greatest legends in Ohio State history. His #45 jersey has become a symbol of the program's tradition and the standard all Buckeyes strive for both on and off the field.