CBS News: Epochal Open Letter to Ohio State Head Coach Calls Archie Griffin to Send Message to Buckeyes
Columbus, OH – April 4, 2025 — In an unprecedented move, a powerful open letter was sent to Ohio State’s head football coach, calling on him to recognize the true spirit of the program and honor the legacy of former players, most notably two-time Heisman Trophy winner, Archie Griffin.
The open letter, signed by a coalition of former Buckeyes, football analysts, and passionate fans, urges Coach Ryan Day to send a powerful message that transcends victories on the field. The letter stresses the importance of remembering the athletes who laid the groundwork for Ohio State’s success, especially the Hall of Famer Griffin, whose legacy as the only two-time Heisman winner in college football history remains a defining symbol of the program’s greatness.
The letter highlights Griffin’s unmatched contribution to Ohio State football, not only for his on-field accomplishments but also for his role as a mentor and ambassador for the sport. With the rising expectations for the Buckeyes, the letter emphasizes the importance of keeping the connection to Ohio State’s storied past alive.
In a personal touch, the open letter urges Coach Day to reach out directly to Archie Griffin with a personal call—a gesture aimed at recognizing Griffin’s iconic status within the Buckeye family and ensuring that his message of perseverance, discipline, and unity resonates with current players.
“The success of the Buckeyes today is built on the shoulders of those who came before, and there’s no greater example of that than Archie Griffin,” the letter reads. “In the current era of Ohio State football, we believe it is crucial for Coach Day to remind his players of the legacy that paved the way for their success.”
The timing of the letter is significant, as Ohio State football gears up for another season of high expectations. This message comes at a critical juncture in the program’s history as the Buckeyes continue their quest for national championships while balancing the pressure to honor the rich history of the program.
In a statement, Coach Ryan Day acknowledged the sentiment expressed in the letter, emphasizing that he has great respect for Archie Griffin and understands the significance of maintaining the program’s connection to its history. While Day did not confirm whether he had reached out to Griffin directly, he expressed his appreciation for the strong bond between Ohio State’s past and future.
Griffin, who has stayed involved with the program in various capacities, has yet to comment on the open letter but is expected to address the matter soon.
This open letter is expected to resonate deeply within the Ohio State community, reaffirming the unwavering commitment to honoring the program’s past while building a bright future for the next generation of Bu
ckeye athletes.