Legendary Ohio State running back Archie Griffin has received a statue at Rose Bowl Stadium in Pasadena, California, marking a significant tribute to his remarkable career. This honor highlights his unique status as the only player in NCAA history to win two Heisman Trophies and to start in four consecutive Rose Bowls.
The bronze statue, unveiled on Saturday, stands alongside other iconic figures such as baseball legend Jackie Robinson and UCLA coaching great Terry Donahue, solidifying Griffin’s legacy within the stadium’s rich history.
Griffin, a back-to-back Big Ten MVP in 1973 and 1974, rose to prominence during his time at Ohio State, where he achieved the prestigious Heisman Trophy in both 1974 and 1975. His collegiate career also included four Big Ten titles from 1972 to 1975, showcasing his impact on the field.
He set an NCAA rushing record with 31 consecutive games of over 100 yards, and at the time, his total career rushing yards of 5,177 was also an NCAA record, underscoring his exceptional talent and dedication.
Drafted in 1976 by the Cincinnati Bengals as the 24th overall pick, Griffin spent seven seasons in the NFL, continuing to represent his home state of Ohio with pride.
During the unveiling ceremony, Griffin expressed his deep emotions, stating to the Los Angeles Times, “It means so much it’s indescribable.” He reflected on his fortunate circumstances, attributing his success to being part of great teams and the right people around him.
He viewed the statue as an honor not just for himself but for the teams he played on, emphasizing the collective effort that contributed to their successes.
Although the Buckeyes had a mixed record of 1-3 in Rose Bowls during Griffin’s tenure, he fondly reminisced about his experiences in Pasadena, noting, “this place has special memories.”
An identical statue has also been presented to Ohio State University, ensuring that Griffin’s legacy continues to inspire future generations of athletes.
Dedan Brozino, president of the Rose Bowl Legacy Foundation, described the statue as a lasting symbol of Griffin’s greatness not only as an athlete but as a person who has positively influenced many lives through his charitable work.
As the 2024 college football season approaches, it will mark the 50th anniversary of Griffin’s first Heisman Trophy award, a fitting time to reflect on his extraordinary contributions to the sport.
