The 'Tressel Five': Ranking the Best Players of the Tressel Era
The 'Tressel Five': Ranking the Best Players of the Tressel Era
Ohio State football is steeped in rich tradition, boasting a history filled with legendary players and unforgettable moments. If you’re a Buckeye fan, the Ohio State football Mount Rushmore is a sacred topic — an honor reserved for the absolute best of the best. While debates rage on about the best four Buckeye players ever, today we’re zeroing in on a distinct and celebrated chapter: the Jim Tressel era.
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From 2001 to 2010, Jim Tressel’s leadership forged champions and legends. This period brought Ohio State glory, including the unforgettable 2002 National Championship team. But who were the greatest players under Tressel’s banner? Let’s embark on a passionate journey to rank the best players of the Tressel era, compare legends like Troy Smith vs Justin Fields, and reflect on the broader legacy of Ohio State football.
Setting the Scene: The Tressel Era Legacy
Jim Tressel arrived in Columbus in 2001, inheriting a program hungry for a return to national prominence. His tenure was defined by discipline, toughness, and clutch performances — especially against archrival Michigan. The 2002 Ohio State championship team remains a pinnacle, with stars like Craig Krenzel and Maurice Clarett etching their names into Buckeye lore. . Pretty simple.
The Tressel era produced numerous legends, from dominant offensive linemen to hard-nosed linebackers and dynamic quarterbacks. It’s also the period that sparked ongoing debates about the best Ohio State quarterback ever and the most underrated Buckeyes.
Introducing the 'Tressel Five': Our Ranking of the Best Players
Narrowing down the best players from a decade of excellence isn’t easy. Yet, after deep reflection on impact, accolades, and heart-stopping performances, here’s our passionate take on the Tressel Five — the five best Ohio State players of that era.
Eddie George — The Workhorse Titan
When discussing the best Ohio State running back, Eddie George’s name towers above all. His 1995 season is legendary, culminating in a Heisman Trophy that still shines bright in OSU history. Though technically pre-Tressel, George’s influence on the program’s identity carried well into the era. His physicality, vision, and consistency defined the Buckeye ground game. Comparing Eddie George vs Zeke Elliott is a popular debate, with George’s 1995 Heisman year and highlights making a strong case as one of the best running back seasons in OSU history.
George’s work ethic and highlights remain a blueprint for Buckeye backs, and his legacy helped shape the tough, physical style Tressel prized.
Orlando Pace — The College Football Juggernaut
Few offensive linemen in college football history match Orlando Pace’s dominance. A two-time All-American and the 1996 Lombardi Award winner, Pace reshaped what it meant to be an offensive lineman. His ability to pancake defenders and open holes for backs like Eddie George earned him a spot as arguably the most dominant college offensive lineman ever.
While his prime years overlap with the late '90s, Pace's influence lingered into the Tressel era, setting the standard for the Buckeye offensive line and inspiring the best Ohio State offensive linemen that followed.
Troy Smith — The Dual-Threat Maestro
No discussion of the best Ohio State quarterback ever is complete without Troy Smith. Winning the 2006 Heisman Trophy, Smith combined accuracy, leadership, and scrambling ability to become a true Buckeye legend. The debate of is Troy Smith the best OSU QB rages endlessly, especially when compared to other stars like Craig Krenzel or Justin Fields.
Smith’s ability to perform in clutch moments, particularly against Michigan, solidified his status in Ohio State lore. His 2006 season was a whirlwind of highlights and unforgettable moments, sealing his place on the Ohio State legends Mt Rushmore.
Chris Spielman — The Heart and Soul Linebacker
Known for his intensity and leadership, Chris Spielman remains one of the toughest Ohio State players ever. Though his playing days predate Tressel, his legacy influenced the linebacker legends of the era. His speeches and presence inspired many Buckeyes to embrace toughness and resilience.
The linebacker corps during Tressel’s reign benefited from Spielman’s example, producing formidable defenders who could change the course of games. Last month, I was working with a client who thought they could save money but ended up paying more.. Spielman’s name still resonates among fans as an icon of grit and determination.
Craig Krenzel — The Clutch Quarterback of 2002
The 2002 National Championship team’s quarterback, Craig Krenzel, may not have the flashiest stats, but his leadership and poise were crucial. Often overlooked in the broader discussion of Buckeye quarterbacks, Krenzel embodies the best Ohio State QB for one game — leading a championship-winning squad with calm confidence.
His clutch performances, especially in bowl games like the 2002 Fiesta Bowl, are part of what makes him a forgotten Ohio State legend who deserves more credit.
Player Comparisons and Debates: Troy Smith vs Justin Fields and Beyond
The quarterback position at Ohio State has long been a hotbed of spirited debate. The question, Troy Smith vs Justin Fields, symbolizes the clash of eras and playing styles. Smith’s Heisman-winning tenure was marked by grit and playmaking within Tressel’s system, while Fields dazzled with unmatched athleticism and arm talent in Ryan Day’s offense.
When ranking Ohio State quarterbacks historically, it’s essential to weigh leadership, clutch performances, and adaptability. Smith’s 2006 season was a masterpiece of efficiency and heart, while Fields’ dynamic ability to carve up defenses brought a new dimension to the Buckeyes.
This debate feeds into the larger question: is Troy Smith the best OSU QB ever? Many fans champion his Heisman credentials and clutch Michigan performances, while others lean toward the modern brilliance of Fields. The answer may come down to personal preference and the era you https://www.collegefootballpoll.com/news/15-best-most-famous-ohio-state-football-players-of-all-time/ grew up watching.
Ohio State’s All-Time Offense and Dream Teams
Compiling an Ohio State all-time offense or Ohio State dream team offense is an exhilarating challenge. The program’s history offers a treasure trove of talent, from offensive linemen like Orlando Pace to running backs such as Eddie George and quarterbacks like Troy Smith.
The best Ohio State offensive players often share traits of toughness, intelligence, and clutch ability. For instance, Pace’s pancake blocks paired with George’s relentless running and Smith’s precise passing create a formidable trio. Add in modern stars like Ezekiel Elliott, and you have a legacy of explosive, game-changing athletes.
Underrated and Forgotten Buckeye Legends
While many Buckeyes receive deserved acclaim, some players fly under the radar. The most underrated Buckeyes and Ohio State players who deserve more credit often include solid offensive linemen, linebackers, and role players who provided the foundation for championship runs.
Beyond Chris Spielman, others like Beanie Wells, known for his powerful running against Michigan, or lesser-known defensive stalwarts, fit this category. These forgotten Ohio State legends contributed quietly but significantly, embodying the toughness and team-first mentality that define Buckeye football.
Ohio State vs Michigan: Legendary Performances
Few matchups stir Ohio State fans like the rivalry against Michigan. The best Ohio State performances against Michigan often center around clutch quarterbacks and dominant backs. Troy Smith’s memorable showdowns, Beanie Wells’ bruising runs, and Craig Krenzel’s composed leadership all stand out.
The Ohio State players who owned Michigan are etched into fan memory for their grit and game-winning plays. These moments fuel the passion behind the Buckeye-Michigan rivalry and underscore the importance of mental toughness.
Will Anyone Win Two Heismans Again? Reflecting on Archie Griffin’s Legacy
The greatest college player in Ohio State history is undoubtedly Archie Griffin, the only two-time Heisman Trophy winner. His record stands as a towering achievement in college football history. The question often arises: will anyone win two Heismans again?
Griffin’s blend of consistency, durability, and elite talent set a benchmark few can match. While modern players like Troy Smith and Eddie George captured Heisman glory once, replicating Griffin’s feat remains elusive. His legacy remains a gold standard for Buckeyes and college football at large.
Final Thoughts: Celebrating the Tressel Era and Ohio State Legend
Ranking the best players of the Tressel era is a thrilling exercise that reminds us of the depth and richness of Ohio State football history. From Eddie George’s bruising runs to Troy Smith’s Heisman heroics, these athletes define what it means to be a Buckeye.
The debates — whether about the best Ohio State quarterback ever, the most underrated Buckeyes, or the composition of the Ohio State all-time offense — keep the spirit of the program alive and vibrant. They invite every fan to relive the glory days and dream about what the future holds.
As we look back on the Tressel era legends, let’s remember that Ohio State football’s greatness comes not just from statistics or trophies, but from the passion, resilience, and heart these players brought to the field every Saturday.
Go Bucks!