North Columbus News

A statue of Archie Griffin was unveiled and dedicated at Ohio Stadium on Friday as part of The Ohio State University’s celebration of Griffin this football season on the 50th anniversary of his first Heisman Trophy.

Griffin was honored at the dedication and joined by family, friends, and university leaders. The only two-time Heisman Trophy winner in history, he played in four Rose Bowl games and is a member of the Rose Bowl and College Football Halls of Fame. Known for his kindness and humility, Griffin wanted to share the moment.

“I’ve always felt like winning the Heisman at Ohio State meant it belonged as much to you as it did to me,” he said. “I want you to really know how much I appreciate the conversations, the meals and moments that we’ve shared. I appreciate that you still remember me 50 years later.”

Born at University Hospital, a football player at Eastmoor High School, and a lifelong member of the Columbus community, Griffin remains deeply connected to Ohio State and its fans. He also served in the university’s athletics department and led the Alumni Association.

“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,” said Ohio State President Walter “Ted” Carter Jr. “Ohio State is truly fortunate that Archie and the entire family continue to be pillars in the community.”

Ross Bjork, senior vice president and Wolfe Foundation-Eugene Smith Endowed Athletics Director, reminded the audience that he is new to his role at Ohio State but understands Griffin's unique stature.

“Here’s what I’ve learned since I became a Buckeye: Everything is connected through the people. Relationships matter. The culture is well-defined. Excellence is a core value. We embrace elite expectations. Ohio State is a public trust. We belong to the state of Ohio,” he said. “What I didn’t have to learn was the greatness of Archie Griffin. His legacy on the field and all the things he did for this great game are well documented. As a sports fan growing up and as the son of a mother who grew up in Northwest Ohio, I’ve heard about Archie all my life.”

Ohio State head football coach Ryan Day spoke about Griffin's example for past and current Buckeyes.

“It’s an unbelievable example to our players about the impact you’ve made in the community, [and]the charities [you’ve supported]. To see the statue being unveiled today is a great representation of your legacy that you’ve left, and you will continue to leave as we move forward,” he said. “So thanks for both of those things. And you’ve done it with unmatched class. When I think ‘Archie Griffin,’ that’s what I think of – class.”

The statue is a replica of one installed earlier this month at the Rose Bowl in Pasadena. It is part of the stadium’s Court of Champions highlighting 19 Heisman Trophy winners who have played in the Rose Bowl.

Griffin was voted an All-American three times and is one of two players to win Big Ten Conference Most Valuable Player award twice (1973-74). In 2013, Pasadena Tournament of Roses named Griffin All-Century Player, celebrating its first 100 years. Griffin rushed for 1,428 yards in regular season as sophomore, 1,620 as junior, and 1,357 as senior.

Griffin hopes statue becomes gathering place for fans serving inspiration for future Buckeyes.

“I want you to know that I love idea that Buckeye fans might stop by visit before game or talk future generations Buckeyes about great teams I played on,” he said. “I’m just really so honored when I think about how I can now stay connected fans Ohio State forever.”

Celebration continues for Griffin this year at Ohio State; he will also dot “i” with Ohio State Marching Band in its “Script Ohio” performance halftime Buckeyes’ season opener Saturday against Akron.