Archie Griffin remains the only two-time Heisman Trophy winner in college football history, and the Big Ten Network made sure to celebrate the Ohio State legend on his 72nd birthday.
Born on August 21, 1954, Griffin was honored Friday with a light-hearted tribute rather than a standard career highlight package. The network shared footage of the former Buckeye running back scoring a touchdown during Ohio State’s 2023 spring game.
What Happened
Big Ten Network posted the video with a simple birthday message:
“HBD, Archie Griffin! Let’s celebrate with the only 2x Heisman Trophy winner’s TD in the 2023 Ohio State spring game.”
In the clip, Griffin takes a handoff and crosses the goal line while wearing his iconic No. 45. Nearly five decades after his final college season, the moment gave fans a fun reminder of his lasting connection to the program.
Why This Matters
Griffin’s place in college football is unique. No player has matched his feat of winning the Heisman Trophy in consecutive seasons (1974 and 1975). More than 50 years later, that record still stands alone.
The birthday tribute offered a chance to revisit not only his statistical dominance but also the enduring affection Ohio State fans and the broader Big Ten community still hold for him.
Key Details Fans Need to Know
Griffin starred at Ohio State from 1972 to 1975 and finished his career with 5,177 rushing yards. He recorded 34 career 100-yard rushing games, including an NCAA-record streak of 31 consecutive games reaching the century mark.
In 1974 he rushed for 1,620 yards and 12 touchdowns to claim his first Heisman. He repeated the honor in 1975. During his career he helped the Buckeyes win four Big Ten championships and start in four Rose Bowls.
Ohio State retired his No. 45 in 1999, and he was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1986.
The Cincinnati Bengals selected him 24th overall in the 1976 NFL Draft. He spent seven seasons with the team, accumulating 2,808 rushing yards and 1,607 receiving yards.
What Happens Next
Griffin continues to serve as one of Ohio State’s most visible and beloved ambassadors. Moments like the 2023 spring game touchdown and this birthday tribute keep his legacy fresh for newer generations of Buckeye fans.
As long as the two-time Heisman record remains unbroken, every birthday will serve as another opportunity to highlight one of college football’s most untouchable accomplishments.
The Bigger Picture
In an era of constant change in college football, Griffin’s record provides a rare constant. The Big Ten Network’s decision to celebrate with a recent, joyful moment rather than only archival footage reflected both respect for history and an understanding of what fans enjoy seeing.
Fifty years after his final Heisman, Archie Griffin’s name still carries the same weight it did in the mid-1970s — a testament to just how special his career remains.
FAQ Section
When is Archie Griffin’s birthday? August 21, 1954. He turned 72 in 2026.
Is Archie Griffin still the only two-time Heisman Trophy winner? Yes. No other player has won the award in consecutive seasons.
How many rushing yards did Archie Griffin have at Ohio State? He finished his career with 5,177 rushing yards.
Did Archie Griffin play in the NFL? Yes. The Cincinnati Bengals drafted him 24th overall in 1976, and he played seven seasons with the team.
Why did Big Ten Network share the 2023 spring game clip? It offered a fun, recent moment of Griffin back on the field in his No. 45 rather than relying solely on decades-old highlights.
Reader Question
Do you think anyone will ever match Archie Griffin’s feat of winning back-to-back Heisman Trophies?
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