Eric Boggs
Winning a national championship is the pinnacle of any collegiate athlete’s career. But winning two national titles in two different sports at two different schools? That’s a feat only a select few can claim—if anyone other than Tywone Malone can claim it at all.
Malone, now a senior defensive lineman for Ohio State, has made history as a rare dual-sport athlete to hoist NCAA championship trophies in both baseball and football. After capturing a College World Series title with Ole Miss in 2022, Malone transferred to Ohio State and played a crucial role in the Buckeyes’ 2024 College Football Playoff National Championship victory.
“From defending blocks and hitting people to rounding the bases after a home run, I’m just a kid who loves two sports,” Malone said. “But to see my passion, dedication, and hard work turn into winning two national championships—one in football and one in baseball—is an achievement that few ever get to experience in their lifetime, and I can proudly and loudly say I’m one of the few. It’s unbelievable, amazing, and comforting all in one.”
The Best of Both Worlds
For Malone, there is no ranking his championships—each one holds a special place in his heart.
“Winning a championship in baseball and a natty in football is very special to me, none greater than the other,” he explained. “It’s like having half of your cake at one time, then the other half at another, and winning the championships is the icing on top.”
His transition from Ole Miss to Ohio State was a well-calculated move, guided by a key figure in his recruitment, Buckeyes defensive line coach Larry Johnson.
“Coach Johnson recruited me while I was in high school, and when I decided to attend a school that would allow me to play both baseball and football, he understood,” Malone recalled. “We maintained a good relationship. I didn’t burn any bridges, so after I entered the portal, he reached out to me. Larry Johnson is one of the best defensive line coaches, and if I was going to pursue a career in football, I wanted to be coached by the best.”
Faith, Family, and Football
Malone’s road to history wasn’t without adversity, but it was paved with faith and family support. He credits Ohio State’s team chemistry and leadership for their championship run, especially after their bitter loss to Michigan in the regular season.
“After losing to TTUN, our bond as a team became stronger,” Malone said. “That, with great leadership and our spiritual connection to God, I knew we were on a run to win a national championship.”
Beyond his team, his biggest supporters have always been his parents, Debra and her husband, who sacrificed time and energy to help their son chase his dreams.
“My mom and dad have been my biggest supporters,” Malone said. “Taking me to school, practices, and tournaments, and being there for me through all adversity. I give them and God all the credit for helping me get to where I am now.”
Debra Malone remembers her son’s love for sports beginning at a very young age.
“Tywone has loved sports since he was three years old,” she said. “I remember shopping at Walmart and purchasing his first whiffle ball and bat. Later that day, my dad took him outside to play with it, and Ty didn’t want to stop. My dad came in exhausted and said, ‘He is going to be a great athlete.’”
Watching her son achieve greatness in both baseball and football is a dream come true for their family.
“As parents of a Division I athlete who has now won a national championship in both baseball and football, we are so proud of him and overjoyed to see his dreams come true. To accomplish both is such a blessing for him.”
A Buckeye Through and Through
Despite originally choosing Ole Miss, Tywone has nothing but gratitude for the way Ohio State welcomed him when he entered the transfer portal.
“The one thing I want Buckeye Nation to know is that at 17 years old, Ty made a decision to follow his dream to play baseball and football,” Debra said. “He is grateful that Ohio State University understood his early decision and didn’t hold a grudge but welcomed him to their program with open arms. For that, he is forever grateful and will work hard to play with his brothers on the field next season to pursue a repeat! Go Bucks!”
With another college football season ahead, Malone has his sights set on further solidifying his legacy. Whether on the gridiron or the diamond, one thing is certain—Tywone Malone is a name that will be remembered in college sports history.
