The Heisman Trophy stands out as the most prestigious honor in college football. Presented by the Heisman Trophy Trust, it is awarded annually to the most outstanding player of the season in college football before the commencement of post-season bowl games.
While many players can boast of having won the award since its inception in 1935, only one player, Archie Griffin, has been able to claim the award twice in the course of his college career. Griffin won consecutively in 1974 and 1975 while playing for Ohio State.
•
Archie Griffin’s College Football Career
Archie Griffin played for the Ohio State Buckeys football program from 1972 to 1975. The running back has been a notable player in the sport since his high school days. Griffin would then continue his impressive display on the field in college football.
Griffin immediately became a starter for the Ohio State Buckeyes as a freshman. He rushed for 867 yards and 3 touchdowns in his first season. He became the first player in Ohio State’s history to rush for 1,000 yards, setting a new school record of 1,577 rushing yards in his sophomore year.
He continued to impress with the team in his junior year, rushing for 1,695 yards and 12 touchdowns. His performances in the 1974 college football season earned him his first Heisman Trophy. He was also honored with a number of other awards during that season.
Griffin remained a dominant force on the field in his senior year with the Buckeyes, rushing for 1,450 yards and 4 touchdowns. He was awarded his second trophy, becoming the first player to win the award twice. A feat that is yet to be matched.
Other Awards Won by Griffin aside the Heisman
Apart from the Heisman Trophy, Griffin was also honored with a number of individual awards in his college football career. He was named the winner of the NCAA-awarded Walter Camp Award in 1974 and 1975, the same years he won the Heisman Trophy.
Griffin also won the Sporting News Player of the Year in 1974 and 1975. United Press International (UPI) awarded him their Player of the Year honor in the same two seasons. Griffin also clinched the coveted Maxwell Award in 1975.
Archie Griffin’s illustrious college football career also got him the Big Ten Most Valuable Player in 1973 and 1974. The running back is definitely one of the most decorated football players at the collegiate level. His No. 45 jersey was retired by Ohio State and he was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1986.