COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) — A month of amazing memories for the Ohio State football team and its fans culminates on Sunday afternoon with a celebration.
Fans came together Sunday for a rally in the stands and on the field to celebrate the Buckeyes’ national championship. You can watch the best moments from the rally in the video player above.
Among the speakers included Athletic Director Ross Bjork, Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine, and Columbus Mayor Andrew Ginther, who brought a new “Champions Way” street sign that will be outside the Horseshoe.
Watch the full celebration and analysis below.
After Ohio State President Ted Carter pumped up the crowd, Coach Ryan Day addressed Buckeye nation, followed by several players, including defensive end Jack Sawyer, receiver Emeka Egbuka, and quarterback Will Howard.
“The national championship trophy is back where it belongs in the great state of Ohio,” said Day. “You [players] have cemented yourself in Ohio State history and you will have Buckeye nation talking about about your stories for years to come.”
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Day’s speech included wishes of gratitude to dozens of members of the coaching staff, including defensive coordinator Jim Knowles, who is reportedly leaving Ohio State to take the same position at conference rivals Penn State.
The Buckeyes ran through the first 12-team College Football Playoff, with a December home win over Tennessee, revenge against No. 1 Oregon, Jack Sawyer’s 83-yard touchdown return after a sack against Texas, and Jeremiah Smith’s 56-yard fourth-quarter catch against Notre Dame. On Monday night, the Buckeyes became national champions for the first time since 2014, when the first four-team playoff was staged.
The celebrating began immediately after the game, both on the field in Atlanta and back in Columbus at Ohio Stadium, where fans gained access and stormed the field.