The Ohio State Buckeyes have had one of the richest traditions in college football’s history. The Buckeyes have won eight national championships, 39 conference titles, and 10 Heisman Trophies. They also have a unique and distinctive feature on their helmets: the stickers that resemble buckeye leaves.
But what do these stickers mean? And how do the players earn them?
What Do the Stickers on Ohio State Helmets Represent?
The Ohio State stickers represent the leaves of the Buckeye, a species of tree native to North America. The Buckeye is also the official state tree of Ohio and the nickname for its residents. According to folklore, the buckeye resembles the eye of a deer, and carrying one brings good luck.
The Buckeyes started wearing the stickers on their helmets in 1968. Ernie Biggs, a member of the Ohio State training staff, thought of the idea as a way to motivate players on Woody Hayes’ team. The stickers were originally designed in 1950 by a local artist named Paul Brown.
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The players receive buckeye stickers for exceptional play and performance. Each player receives a sticker for a win, two for a win in a conference game, and three for a win over Michigan. The players also get stickers for individual or unit achievements, such as touchdowns, interceptions, sacks, tackles, blocks, etc. The criteria for awarding stickers may vary depending on the position and the coach’s discretion.
The equipment staff places the stickers on the back of the helmets after each game. The players can choose where to put their stickers, but they usually follow a pattern covering the helmets’ sides and top. Some players have so many stickers that they cover up the primary silver color underneath.
The stickers are a source of pride and recognition for the players and the fans. They show how well the players have performed and contributed to the team’s success. They also create a sense of competition and camaraderie among the players, who strive to earn more stickers than their teammates. They also add to the visual appeal and identity of the Ohio State helmets, among the most iconic and recognizable in college football.
The buckeye stickers are more than just decorations on their helmets. They are symbols of excellence, tradition, and culture. They are part of what makes Ohio State one of the most prestigious and respected programs in college football.
Former head coach Jim Tressel awarded stickers for unit performance when he ran the program. Urban Meyer said, “Each one means the player did something good to help the Buckeyes win!” However, it’s unclear exactly how Ryan Day has doled out the stickers in addition to the above formula.
