Archie Griffin, the legendary running back who remains the only two-time Heisman Trophy winner in college football history, has lived a life defined by remarkable moments on the field and cherished memories off it. As a proud alumnus of Ohio State University, Griffin’s legacy has long been woven into the fabric of Buckeye football, not only through his accolades and records but also through his lasting impact as a mentor and ambassador for the program. Now, nearly five decades since he first graced the turf of Ohio Stadium, Griffin is preparing for a moment that may prove as emotional and meaningful as any touchdown he ever scored. This fall, his grandson will take the field as part of the Buckeyes, marking the emergence of a third generation of Griffins to don the scarlet and gray. For Archie, it’s not just about the continuation of a family tradition, but about seeing the enduring values of hard work, dedication, and character live on through his grandson.
Archie Griffin’s name is synonymous with Ohio State football, not just because of his statistics or awards, but because of what he represents. During his career from 1972 to 1975, Griffin became the heart and soul of the Buckeyes under legendary coach Woody Hayes. His relentless style of running, combined with humility and determination, earned him widespread respect across the college football world. Winning the Heisman Trophy in back-to-back seasons of 1974 and 1975 placed him in a category all his own, a record that still stands today. He rushed for over 5,500 yards during his collegiate career and helped lead Ohio State to four consecutive Big Ten titles. Yet, despite his legendary status, Griffin never lost the grounded perspective that his family instilled in him. That same sense of humility and drive is something he hopes to see his grandson carry forward.
The Griffin family’s ties to Ohio State are nothing short of extraordinary. Archie’s younger brother, Ray Griffin, also played for the Buckeyes as a defensive back, making key plays during Ohio State’s dominant years in the 1970s. Archie often speaks about how family played an integral role in shaping his career, and it’s no surprise that those values are now inspiring the next generation. His grandson’s decision to play for Ohio State isn’t simply a matter of carrying on a family name; it is about embracing a tradition of excellence and the high expectations that come with wearing the Buckeye uniform. For Archie, watching his grandson step onto the same field where he built his career is like coming full circle. It’s a reminder of how the game transcends generations, becoming a bond that connects past, present, and future.
Archie Griffin has often said that some of his proudest moments in life have come not from personal accolades, but from watching others succeed—especially his family. He understands the pressure that comes with the Griffin name, particularly in a place like Columbus, where Ohio State football is revered. His advice to his grandson has been simple yet profound: focus on your own journey, work hard, and play the game with integrity. Archie’s career was defined by consistency and effort. He didn’t simply rely on natural talent; he outworked nearly everyone around him. That’s the kind of mindset he encourages his grandson to adopt as he begins his journey as a Buckeye.
What makes this upcoming fall so significant for Archie is not just the personal connection but also the way Ohio Stadium itself has evolved since his playing days. The Horseshoe, as it is affectionately known, has grown and modernized over the years, yet it remains a symbol of tradition and passion. Every time Archie returns to the stadium, he is flooded with memories of his own time wearing the scarlet and gray. He can still picture the roaring crowds, the crisp autumn air, and the energy that seemed to radiate from every corner of the stands. Now, as he prepares to watch his grandson run onto that same field, those memories take on new meaning. It’s no longer just his story but a continuation of the Griffin legacy.
For Ohio State fans, the Griffin name carries a sense of nostalgia and pride. Many older fans remember the 1970s as a golden era of Buckeye football, with Archie leading the charge. His return to the spotlight, this time as a grandfather, brings an added layer of excitement to the upcoming season. Fans are eager to see if his grandson can carve out his own identity while honoring the Griffin tradition. It’s a rare and special thing in sports to witness multiple generations of the same family contributing to the same program. It speaks not only to talent but also to a deep-rooted connection to the university and its values.
Archie has remained closely involved with Ohio State since his playing days ended. He served as the president and CEO of the Ohio State Alumni Association for many years, working to strengthen the bonds between former players, students, and fans. His presence on campus is a testament to his belief in giving back and staying connected to the community that supported him throughout his career. As a result, his grandson will not just be playing for Ohio State; he will be playing under the watchful eyes of someone who truly understands what it means to be a Buckeye. That guidance will undoubtedly prove invaluable as the young Griffin navigates the challenges of college football.
There is also a broader significance to this moment that goes beyond the Griffin family. College football is built on stories of tradition and legacy. When fans see a grandson following in the footsteps of a grandfather who became a legend, it reinforces the idea that certain programs are bigger than any one player or season. Ohio State’s rich history is filled with iconic names and unforgettable moments, but the Griffin story is unique in its multi-generational impact. It’s a reminder that the lessons learned on the field—discipline, teamwork, perseverance—are lessons that can shape entire families and inspire future generations.
Archie Griffin has often expressed gratitude for the opportunities football has given him, and he hopes his grandson will approach the game with the same appreciation. While modern college football is very different from the game Archie played in the 1970s, the core values remain the same. Success still comes down to preparation, mental toughness, and the willingness to put the team above individual goals. Archie believes that his grandson has the tools and the mindset to thrive, but he also knows that the journey will have its ups and downs. That’s part of what makes this upcoming season so exciting—there’s an element of the unknown, and with it, the potential for something truly special.
As the fall season approaches, Archie has been reflecting on what this moment means to him personally. He has spent decades being recognized as one of college football’s greatest players, but this is different. This is about family, about legacy, and about seeing the game he loves through a new lens. He will no longer be the one carrying the ball down the field, but he will be there in the stands, cheering on a new generation of Griffin and reliving some of the same emotions that fueled his own career. In many ways, it’s a passing of the torch—a symbolic moment that underscores the timelessness of sports.
There is no doubt that Archie Griffin’s presence will add extra motivation for his grandson. Playing in front of a grandfather who is not just a family icon but a national football legend is no small task. Yet Archie’s approach has always been to keep things in perspective. He knows that his grandson doesn’t need to replicate his accomplishments to make the family proud. What matters most is the effort, the character, and the ability to seize the moment. If the younger Griffin can bring those qualities to the field, he will not only honor the family name but also create his own legacy within Ohio State football.
As the first game of the season draws closer, anticipation continues to build. For Archie Griffin, this fall will be more than just another season of Buckeye football. It will be a celebration of everything that Ohio State has meant to his family for nearly half a century. It will be a chance to witness history, as a third generation of Griffins takes the field in one of college football’s most storied stadiums. And perhaps most importantly, it will serve as a powerful reminder that while records and trophies may fade, the bonds of family and the love of the game endure.
Archie Griffin knows that when his grandson runs out of the tunnel and hears the roar of the Ohio Stadium crowd for the first time, it will be a moment that connects past and present in a way few experiences can. For Archie, who once stood in that same tunnel with dreams of his own, it will be both humbling and inspiring. He will see not just a young player chasing a dream, but a reflection of his own journey and the values that have carried him through life. This fall, as the Horseshoe comes alive with the energy of another football season, Archie Griffin will once again have reason to cheer—not for himself, but for the future of the Griffin legacy and the promise of what lies ahead.
