QB Cornelius Greene (1974 Rose Bowl MVP, 1975 Big Ten MVP)
- By ScriptOhio
- Buckeye Alumni
- 29 Replies
The Scarlet and Gray remained at #1, building a perfect 10-0 record as they headed into their annual grudge match against Michigan. Just like in Corny's first three Ohio State-Michigan games, a Big Ten title and Rose Bowl berth were at stake2.
In the first quarter, the visiting Buckeyes went up 7-0 on a touchdown pass from Green to Johnson. Then, thanks in part to a few turnovers—including two interceptions—and a staunch Wolverine defense, Ohio State failed to pick up a first down for two quarters. Michigan took a 14-7 lead in the fourth quarter, but #7 marched his team down the field for the tying score. On that pivotal drive, the once stagnant offense gained 80 yards with a balanced attack of both pass plays and carries.
Shortly thereafter, Ohio State retook possession when Archie's brother, Ray Griffin, picked off UM quarterback Rick Leach. Another Pete Johnson touchdown gave the Buckeyes the lead again with just over two minutes left in the game. That's how it would end, with Ohio State emerging victorious, 21-14.
Just sayin': It brings back great memories as I was at that game.
For the fourth year in a row, the Buckeyes earned a trip to Pasadena. Their struggles on offense that day in Ann Arbor, though, foreshadowed what was to come on January 1, 1976.
In a rematch with UCLA on New Year's Day, #1 Ohio State was the clear-cut favorite. Yet, a national championship would elude them once again. Losing 23-10, Cornelius Green's last game in Scarlet and Gray was nothing short of a disappointment. He threw two interceptions and admitted that neither he, Archie, Pete, nor the offensive line had a great day.
Just sayin': I was at that game too. We were #1, had beaten UCLA earlier in the year, were more than 2 TD favorite, and had a 2 time Heisman Trophy winner. It was disappointing to lose.
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