At Ohio State, there’s one figure who commands as much attention as any coach or player. He doesn’t wear pads or cleats. He doesn’t throw touchdowns or sink three-pointers. But Brutus Buckeye, with his signature oversized nut-shaped head and uncontainable energy, has become one of the most iconic and beloved mascots in college sports.
Brutus is far more than a costumed character dancing on the sidelines. He’s a living embodiment of school pride, a tradition stretching back more than six decades, and a tireless ambassador for the Buckeye community. Behind every high-five, perfectly timed push-up, backflip, or viral TikTok video, there is a student-athlete—often more than one—dedicating countless hours to embodying Brutus’s spirit.
To understand why Brutus inspires so much love, it helps to go back to his beginnings. In 1965, members of the Ohio State University’s student organization Block “O” proposed the creation of a mascot. Their initial idea? A buck deer. But after some logistical concerns (and a little humor), they pivoted to a buckeye nut—Ohio’s state tree and symbol. The first version of Brutus was a papier-mâché nut worn atop a student’s head, resembling more of a craft project than the athletic icon we know today.
Over time, Brutus evolved. He gained a more expressive face, a stronger physique, and a red-and-gray-striped outfit. What didn’t change was his role: to excite fans, represent the university, and foster a sense of togetherness at games and events.
What many fans don’t realize is that multiple students portray Brutus in a given year. These dedicated individuals are part of a highly selective program run through Ohio State’s Spirit Squad and the Department of Athletics.
Becoming Brutus is no small feat. Prospective mascots undergo a rigorous tryout process that includes interviews, skit performances, endurance tests, and live-event simulations. They’re judged not only on their physical stamina and creativity, but also on how well they can embody Brutus’s charisma and presence without ever speaking a word.
“There’s no talking allowed when you’re Brutus,” says a former Brutus who portrayed the mascot during two seasons. “You learn to speak volumes with your body language. You’re constantly on the move—hyping the crowd, entertaining the band, interacting with children. You have to be bold, creative, and consistent.”
Portraying Brutus is a full-time commitment. During football season, the demands are relentless. Brutus makes appearances not just at home games, but at tailgates, alumni events, community outreach programs, and countless campus activities. On any given weekend, the student inside the suit might attend as many as 15 events.
“It’s not unusual to have a 15-hour day,” one student said. “You’re sprinting around the ‘Shoe, dancing with the band, doing push-ups after every touchdown. And in between, you’re taking selfies with fans, meeting kids, and keeping the energy high.”
And that’s just game day. Throughout the week, Brutus attends birthday parties, hospital visits, corporate gatherings, weddings, charity fundraisers, and more. Brutus even has an active social media presence—followed by hundreds of thousands on Instagram and TikTok—where the student team manages content, posts videos, and helps amplify Buckeye spirit online.
While many mascots perform in short bursts, Brutus works continuously, especially during high-stakes games and postseason runs. The physicality involved is often overlooked.
“The suit is hot—like really hot,” one performer laughs. “You’re wearing padding, long sleeves, gloves, and a giant foam head. You’re jumping and flipping for hours. It’s a workout.”
Training is key. Many Brutus performers come from cheer, gymnastics, or dance backgrounds. They’re required to stay in top shape to execute Brutus’s signature stunts, which include one-arm pushups, flips, and back handsprings—often while wearing a 25-pound head.
But just as important is the mental side. Mascot students learn to manage the pressure of performing for tens of thousands of fans while staying completely anonymous. They also balance full academic schedules, often pursuing demanding majors.
“There’s no fame in it,” one Brutus said. “No one knows who you are, and that’s kind of the magic of it. You’re representing something bigger than yourself.”
Ask any former Brutus about their favorite memory, and you’ll likely hear about more than just the big games. While performing at the College Football Playoff or leading chants during a rivalry win over Michigan are highlights, many speak most fondly about the smaller moments.
“It’s the time you made a kid with cancer smile at Nationwide Children’s Hospital,” one performer said. “Or when you danced with an elderly Buckeye fan who’s been going to games for 50 years. Those are the moments that stick.”
Brutus serves as a source of joy and connection. He unites fans across generations, backgrounds, and even rivalries. His energy is contagious, his antics memorable, and his impact hard to measure.
Because multiple students share the responsibility of being Brutus, teamwork is essential. The group trains together, choreographs routines, shares the social media load, and supports one another through injuries and burnout.
They also form a lasting brotherhood and sisterhood. Former Brutus performers often keep in touch long after graduation, bonded by the unique experience of being the “face” of the university without showing their own.
“There’s something incredibly unifying about it,” says a former female Brutus, one of the few women to wear the suit. “You know what it means to sweat, dance, and give your all while being totally hidden. It’s humbling and empowering at the same time.”
For many who portrayed Brutus, the experience becomes a defining chapter in their college journey—and in life. They go on to careers in medicine, law, education, business, sports, and public service. But their time as Brutus often remains a point of pride and conversation.
“Job interviews, weddings, reunions—people always want to talk about it,” said one former mascot turned physician. “It’s a rare thing, and it teaches you so much: communication, poise, energy, and the power of connecting with others.”
Ohio State makes a point to honor the students behind the mask. While their identities are kept private during their tenure, graduating Brutus performers are often recognized at the end of the academic year. Alumni events also welcome back former Brutus mascots, where they can reflect on their shared journey and the legacy they helped build.
“Our Brutus students are ambassadors for the university,” said an Ohio State athletic official. “They represent the best of what it means to be a Buckeye—resilient, joyful, passionate, and always committed to the community.”
At the end of the day, Brutus Buckeye is more than a symbol. He’s the spirit of Ohio State, brought to life by dedicated, talented student-athletes who give their time, energy, and hearts to lift others up.
So the next time you see Brutus leading a cheer, breakdancing at center court, or walking arm-in-arm with a young fan, remember: there’s a student in that suit. One who chose to serve the Buckeye family not for glory or applause, but because they love their school and want to make someone’s day just a little brighter.
Everybody loves Brutus—and now, we hope, they love the remarkable young people who make him possible, too.
