Five Unforgettable Clutch Performances by Ohio State Football Legends That Defined Moments in the Last Quarter Century
Ohio State football has been synonymous with excellence, passion, and resilience over the past 25 years. The Buckeyes have delivered some of the most thrilling moments in college football history, largely due to players who rose to the occasion when it mattered most. These clutch performances not only shifted games but also cemented legacies, inspiring fans and teammates alike. From last-second touchdowns to defensive stands, here are five unforgettable clutch performances by Ohio State footballers that have left a lasting imprint on the program and its storied history.
One of the most iconic clutch moments came in 2002 with quarterback Craig Krenzel during the National Championship game against the Miami Hurricanes. Facing a seemingly insurmountable Miami defense, Krenzel’s poise under pressure was instrumental. In the closing moments of the game, with Ohio State trailing and time running out, Krenzel led a methodical drive that culminated in a game-tying touchdown pass. His calm leadership allowed the Buckeyes to force overtime, where they eventually triumphed in one of the most thrilling finishes in college football history. Krenzel’s clutch performance didn’t just win a game; it brought Ohio State its first national title in 34 years and became a benchmark for future Buckeyes on how to handle pressure.
Fast forward to 2014, and the Ohio State quarterback spotlight shone on Cardale Jones, a player many hadn’t expected to lead the team that season. When starters Braxton Miller and J.T. Barrett went down with injuries, Jones was thrust into the spotlight. What followed was nothing short of remarkable. In the College Football Playoff semifinal against Alabama, Jones displayed extraordinary composure and arm strength, throwing crucial touchdown passes to keep the Buckeyes within striking distance. But his defining clutch moment came in the championship game against Oregon. Under immense pressure, Jones threw for over 300 yards and three touchdowns, guiding Ohio State to a commanding victory and the national title. His unexpected rise and clutch performance not only shocked critics but also inspired teammates, illustrating the depth and resilience of the program.
Another unforgettable clutch moment occurred in 2016 when running back Ezekiel Elliott powered the Buckeyes through a tough Michigan State defense in a pivotal Big Ten Championship game. Elliott, known for his relentless running style and work ethic, delivered a dominant performance when the stakes were highest. With the game on the line, Elliott’s ability to break tackles and pick up critical yards kept Ohio State’s offense on track. He finished the game with over 200 rushing yards and two touchdowns, proving indispensable in securing the Buckeyes’ spot in the College Football Playoff. His performance that day was a testament to how a determined and focused athlete can change the course of a high-stakes game with pure grit and talent.
Defense has also played a starring role in Ohio State’s clutch moments, exemplified by cornerback Marshon Lattimore’s game-changing plays in 2017. As a true freshman stepping into a starting role, Lattimore made a name for himself with his uncanny ability to read the opposing offense and make critical interceptions. His standout clutch performance came during a heated rivalry game against Michigan. With the Buckeyes clinging to a narrow lead, Lattimore intercepted a pass in the fourth quarter that thwarted a promising Wolverine drive. That turnover was pivotal in preserving Ohio State’s victory. Lattimore’s instinct and timely playmaking under pressure not only helped secure the win but also foreshadowed his future as one of the nation’s top defensive backs and eventual NFL star.
Lastly, no discussion of clutch Ohio State performances would be complete without mentioning kicker Mike Nugent, whose calm nerves in the early 2000s consistently delivered points when they mattered most. Nugent’s ability to perform under pressure was highlighted in the 2003 season when he converted multiple game-winning field goals, including a nerve-wracking 49-yard kick against Michigan that sealed a critical victory. His clutch kicking helped Ohio State maintain their winning streak against their biggest rival and played a key role in their journey to the national championship game that year. Nugent’s steady foot under pressure was a reminder that in football, every position has the potential to be heroic when the moment calls for it.
These five performances are more than just memorable moments on the field; they encapsulate what it means to be a Buckeye — to rise up in the face of adversity, to lead with courage and determination, and to seize the moment when it matters most. Whether through a quarterback’s leadership, a running back’s power, a defender’s instincts, or a kicker’s precision, these players have embodied the spirit of Ohio State football over the last 25 years. Their clutch performances have not only shaped games but have also inspired generations of players and fans to believe that with heart and perseverance, no challenge is too great.
In the landscape of college football, clutch moments define legacies and fuel traditions. Ohio State football’s rich history is peppered with such moments, and these five stand out as beacons of excellence and resilience. They remind us that football is not just a game of yards and points but a stage where heroes emerge, where pressure becomes opportunity, and where history is written in the final, decisive plays. As new talents continue to don the scarlet and gray, the legacy of these clutch performances will serve as a guiding light, motivating them to reach new heights and create their own unforgettable moments for the Buckeye faithful.
