Rex Kern and Woody Hayes: Unstoppable Force Behind the Legendary 1968 Ohio State Buckeyes’ Dominance in College Football
In the annals of college football history, few eras shine as brightly as the 1968 Ohio State Buckeyes under the steadfast leadership of Woody Hayes and the relentless spirit of their quarterback, Rex Kern. This period marked one of the most dominant stretches for any team in the sport, a confluence of exceptional coaching, remarkable talent, and unwavering determination. Rex Kern, the fearless leader of the Buckeyes, stood tall beside the legendary Woody Hayes, guiding Ohio State to a season of near perfection, immense success, and lasting legacy.
Rex Kern’s story is inseparable from the rise of the Buckeyes during this golden era. Born in 1947 in Cincinnati, Ohio, Kern was an all-around athlete in high school, but it was football that truly ignited his passion and showcased his leadership skills. When he arrived at Ohio State University, the football program was already formidable under the direction of Woody Hayes, but Kern would prove instrumental in elevating the team to new heights. His physical toughness, sharp football intellect, and calm demeanor under pressure made him an ideal leader on the field.
Woody Hayes, the coach who would become synonymous with Ohio State football excellence, was a larger-than-life figure. Known for his fiery temperament and unyielding work ethic, Hayes built a culture of discipline, physicality, and strategic brilliance. Under his guidance, the Buckeyes emphasized a ground-and-pound style of football, an approach that relied heavily on the running game, suffocating defense, and a quarterback who could lead both by example and tactical decision-making. Rex Kern perfectly embodied this philosophy.
The 1968 season was a defining moment for Kern, Hayes, and the entire Ohio State program. Coming off a successful previous year, expectations were high, but the Buckeyes exceeded all forecasts. Kern, as the starting quarterback, orchestrated an offense that was both methodical and explosive, blending a powerful running game with just enough passing to keep defenses guessing. His ability to read defenses and make smart decisions minimized turnovers and maximized opportunities.
Ohio State’s 1968 team was stacked with talent beyond Kern. Players like Jack Tatum, Jim Stillwagon, and Jim Otis contributed to a defensive and offensive juggernaut that opponents struggled to contain. But it was Kern’s leadership and versatility that tied the team together. Whether rushing for crucial first downs, executing precise handoffs, or delivering critical passes, Kern’s presence was felt on every play. His toughness—famously enduring hits that would have sidelined lesser players—became a hallmark of his playing style and inspired his teammates.
The season saw the Buckeyes steamroll through their schedule, demonstrating resilience and consistency. Their only blemish came in a controversial 50-14 defeat against Michigan, but that loss was more of an anomaly than a reflection of their overall dominance. Ohio State’s ability to bounce back from adversity and maintain focus exemplified the mental toughness instilled by Woody Hayes and embodied by Rex Kern.
One of the most memorable moments of that season came in the game against Michigan State, where Ohio State showcased its ability to control the clock and dominate physically. Kern’s steady hand on the offense was crucial in managing the game tempo, ensuring that the Buckeyes kept possession and wore down their opponents. The strategic mind of Hayes, combined with Kern’s execution, made them nearly unstoppable.
The culmination of their efforts was the triumphant victory in the Rose Bowl, a game that solidified Ohio State’s status as a national powerhouse. Facing off against the University of Southern California (USC), the Buckeyes delivered a disciplined, hard-hitting performance that reflected the entire season’s grit and determination. Kern’s leadership shone brightest on the biggest stage, orchestrating drives that combined the best of Ohio State’s offensive arsenal.
Off the field, Kern and Hayes shared a unique bond. Hayes, often seen as a demanding and sometimes harsh coach, recognized Kern’s football IQ and maturity, often entrusting him with more autonomy than other players. This mutual respect created a synergy that translated into on-field success. Kern’s ability to communicate effectively with his teammates and coaching staff made him not just a player but a key figure in executing Hayes’s vision.
Rex Kern’s impact on the 1968 Buckeyes extended beyond just wins and losses. He became a symbol of leadership, embodying the virtues of toughness, intelligence, and humility. His style of play and commitment to the team’s success set a standard for future Buckeyes quarterbacks and leaders. The reverence for Kern within Ohio State football lore is not just for his statistics or victories, but for the intangible qualities that helped define a championship team.
Woody Hayes’s coaching philosophy—centered on “three yards and a cloud of dust”—was perfectly complemented by Kern’s skill set. While Hayes was famous for his insistence on physical dominance and a conservative game plan, Kern’s adaptability and football smarts allowed the team to capitalize on opportunities and maintain balance. This harmony between coach and quarterback was a blueprint for success.
The legacy of the 1968 Ohio State Buckeyes, with Rex Kern at the helm and Woody Hayes calling the shots, resonates in college football history. Their season was a masterclass in teamwork, discipline, and leadership, culminating in a national championship that remains a proud chapter in Ohio State’s storied football tradition. The lessons learned and the example set by Kern and Hayes continue to inspire players, coaches, and fans alike.
After his college career, Rex Kern was drafted into the NFL, where he continued to demonstrate the qualities that made him a star at Ohio State. Though his professional career did not reach the legendary heights of his collegiate days, his impact at Ohio State remained untarnished. Meanwhile, Woody Hayes continued coaching the Buckeyes, further cementing his legacy as one of the greatest coaches in college football history.
In retrospect, the partnership of Rex Kern and Woody Hayes during the 1968 season was more than just a successful coach-player relationship; it was the embodiment of an era. It was a time when grit and determination could still carry a team through the toughest challenges, when leadership was measured in actions on and off the field, and when Ohio State football achieved a level of dominance that remains a benchmark to this day.
The story of Rex Kern and Woody Hayes is one of enduring respect, mutual trust, and shared pursuit of excellence. It is a reminder of how great leadership and talent, when combined, can create a legacy that transcends generations. For Ohio State fans and college football enthusiasts alike, the 1968 Buckeyes stand as a testament to what can be achieved through discipline, heart, and unyielding commitment.
In summary, the 1968 Ohio State Buckeyes, led by Rex Kern and coached by Woody Hayes, defined a golden era in college football through their relentless determination, strategic mastery, and exceptional teamwork. Kern’s fearless leadership on the field, combined with Hayes’s visionary coaching, forged a team that not only dominated their opponents but also carved their names into the fabric of football history. Their story remains a beacon of what true greatness looks like in the sport—a timeless legacy of grit, leadership, and victory.
