Cornelius Green and Archie Griffin were two of the most dynamic players in Ohio State football history, playing together in the 1970s under legendary head coach Woody Hayes.

Cornelius Green and Archie Griffin were two of the most dynamic players in Ohio State football history, playing together in the 1970s under legendary head coach Woody Hayes.

Their partnership helped define an era of Buckeyes dominance, leading the team to multiple Big Ten titles and national championship contention.

 

Cornelius Green, the first African American starting quarterback at Ohio State, was a trailblazer. Despite being overshadowed at times by Griffin’s legendary career, Green was an integral part of the Buckeyes’ success. He was known for his leadership, speed, and ability to manage Hayes’ run-heavy offense efficiently. In 1975, Green won the Big Ten MVP Award, a testament to his impact despite not putting up traditional passing numbers. His dual-threat ability made him a nightmare for defenses, and he played a key role in orchestrating Ohio State’s powerful rushing attack.

 

Archie Griffin, meanwhile, remains one of the most celebrated players in college football history. He is the only player to win the Heisman Trophy twice (1974, 1975), a feat unmatched to this day. Griffin was a workhorse running back, displaying remarkable vision, agility, and durability. He rushed for over 5,000 yards in his collegiate career, setting records that stood for decades. His consistency was astounding—he rushed for 100 yards or more in 31 consecutive games, a testament to his dominance.

 

Together, Green and Griffin led Ohio State to four straight Big Ten championships and multiple Rose Bowl appearances. Their chemistry in the backfield was a key reason for the Buckeyes’ success in the mid-1970s. While Griffin is often remembered as the superstar, Green’s contributions as a pioneering quarterback should not be overlooked. Their legacy remains a vital part of Ohio State’s storied football history.