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What player, past or present, best embodies the spirit of Ohio State Fotball?

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generaladm

Legend
I'll eschew the obvious choices and nominate Antonio Smith. Smith walked on for his first four years before earning a scholarship in his last year of eligibility. After redshirting in 2002 and playing almost exclusively on special teams from 03-05, Smith became a starter at CB in 06 and earned first team All-Conference honors. In the 06 season, Smith finished tied for 2nd on the team in tackles with 71, 10 for loss, adding 2 sacks, 2 INT, 1 breakup, and 1 fumble forced and recovered. He was named Big Ten Defensive Player of the Week for his performance against Indiana (IIRC he had 14 tackles). A good cover man and a sure tackler, Smith always impressed me with his effort on each and every play. As I recall, Smith was one of the few Buckeyes to have a solid game in the NC (I'm not going to watch the tape to make sure). Smith graduated with a degree in mechanical engineering and was signed as an undrafted free agent by the Colts. While not a superstar, Smith's perseverance and determination made him one of my all time favorites.
 
Mr. Charles Christopher Spielman.

Heart of a Champion!


"Man thats the hardest any white boy ever hit me." -Bo Jackson


Not that anyone had to guess by noting my avatar and screen name. Also, even though it doesnt get talked about nearly enough, he's one of the greatest men that God's ever put on this planet! Unselfish. Persistent and determined. Faithful and tenacious. On and off the field all words that describe Chris and his affinity for all things Buckeye!
 
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Spirit

There are so many to pick from. Add your favorites!

Archie Griffin
Troy Smith
Anthony Gonzalez
Les Horvath
Eddie George
Rex Kern
Jim Stillwagon
Jack Tatum
Mike Doss
Chris Spielman
Randy Gradishar
Orlando Pace

A little known Buckeye--Frank Kremblas

There are so many great men-great players-great Buckeyes.:osu:
 
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RoscoeParrish;1185867; said:
Wilhelm.
Click to expand...

Ditto.

Sandwiched in between some other S&G linebacking phenoms, he made up what he lacked in talent with heart. On a team that was carried all year long by the defense, given no chance to win the Big 10 and absolutely no chance to beat Miami, Wilhelm was always out there leading by example.

Tom Matte

For those too young to know, what a gritty, hard nosed, son of a bitch he was at OSU and in the pros.
 
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I just love the fact that the history of Ohio State football allows so many fine choices be mentioned, but that I can still be the first to post players and men of this caliber:

Bill Willis
Vic Janowicz
Jim Parker
 
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Wow, this is a really difficult one! So many guys in this category.

I think you'd have to think about their character on AND off field. I also have a special respect for guys who do well in the classroom (or who come back to finish their degrees) and guys who come back to contribute to the community well after their playing careers are over. Not always about talent, but about the way they chose to use it.

Just a few (of the many) that I'd choose:
Archie (of course)
AJ Hawk
Eddie George
Craig Krenzel
 
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