Eric Boggs
In a fitting tribute to one of college football’s greatest legends, Archie Griffin, the only player in history to win the Heisman Trophy twice, will be honored with a statue outside the iconic Rose Bowl Stadium. This enduring monument pays homage to Griffin’s outstanding achievements and contributions to the sport during his illustrious career at Ohio State University.
Archie Griffin’s journey to becoming a two-time Heisman Trophy winner began at Ohio State University, where he showcased extraordinary talent as a running back. Born on August 21, 1954, in Columbus, Ohio, Griffin quickly became a football sensation. His collegiate career spanned from 1972 to 1975, during which he left an indelible mark on the Buckeyes’ football program.
Griffin’s career rushing statistics at Ohio State are a testament to his exceptional skill and dedication to the game. Over the course of four seasons, he amassed an astonishing 5,589 rushing yards, setting a standard that remains unmatched in the annals of Ohio State football history. Griffin’s remarkable ability to find running lanes, break tackles, and accelerate down the field made him a formidable force for opposing defenses.
The Rose Bowl, one of the most iconic venues in college football, served as the stage for some of Archie Griffin’s most memorable performances. Griffin played in a remarkable four Rose Bowls accumulating 73 carries for 468-yards and four touchdowns.
Steve Hatchell, President of the board of directors at The Rose Bowl Legacy Foundation stated, “Archie Griffin is one of the greatest players in college football history, and we applaud the Rose Bowl Stadium for erecting his statue as part of the new Heisman Walk at the stadium,” Hatchell said. “As a College Football Hall of Fame inductee and a long-standing member of the (NFF) board of directors, he has dedicated his life to promoting and protecting the game. Archie’s statue will serve as a fitting tribute to a man whose legacy is something we can all celebrate.”
The upcoming statue will serve as a fitting tribute to Griffin’s influential legacy, drawing attention to his significant contributions to college football.
“I am humbled to have a statue in my honor at the Rose Bowl Stadium, one of the most prestigious stadiums in America. I feel blessed to have played in four Rose Bowl Games, but please know that when you honor me with this recognition, you also honor the teams that I played on during my four years at The Ohio State University. I was simply in the right place, at the right time, with the right people.”
Archie Griffin
Archie Griffin’s dual Heisman Trophy wins and remarkable career at Ohio State University have earned him a lasting place in college football history. The announcement of an honorary statue by the Rose Bowl Legacy Foundation is a poignant recognition of Griffin’s enduring legacy and his deep connection to the Rose Bowl, a venue that played a pivotal role in shaping his football journey. As the anticipation builds for the unveiling of the statue, fans and enthusiasts alike eagerly await the opportunity to pay homage to the iconic Archie Griffin and celebrate his unparalleled contributions to the world of college football.
