Ohio State’s 2025 National Championship Commemoration: A Historic Celebration
On January 26, 2025, Ohio State University hosted a monumental celebration at Ohio Stadium to honor the Buckeyes’ victory in the inaugural 12-team College Football Playoff National Championship. This event marked the culmination of a remarkable season that saw Ohio State defeat Notre Dame 34–23 in the title game, securing their first national championship since 2014. The celebration, aptly named the “Celebration of Champions,” was a testament to the team’s resilience, the support of their fans, and the rich tradition of Ohio State football.
The Path to the Championship
The 2024 season was historic for Ohio State, not only because of their national title but also due to the expanded 12-team playoff format. The Buckeyes navigated a challenging path, defeating top-ranked teams such as Tennessee, Oregon, and Texas before facing Notre Dame in the championship game. Their journey was a testament to their determination and skill, culminating in a victory that would be remembered for years to come
The Celebration of Champions
The celebration at Ohio Stadium was a grand affair, drawing over 30,000 fans to honor the team. The event featured speeches from key figures, including head coach Ryan Day, athletic director Ross Bjork, Ohio Governor Mike DeWine, Columbus Mayor Andrew Ginther, and Ohio State President Walter “Ted” Carter Jr. Each speaker highlighted the team’s perseverance, resilience, and commitment to excellence.
A significant moment during the celebration was the unveiling of “Champions Way,” a new street sign outside Ohio Stadium, symbolizing the team’s achievement and the community’s pride. Additionally, Coach Ryan Day was presented with a key to the city, further cementing the team’s place in Columbus’s history
The celebration also featured remarks from team captains Emeka Egbuka, TreVeyon Henderson, Jack Sawyer, and Cody Simon, who shared personal stories and reflections on the season. Quarterback Will Howard expressed gratitude to the fans for their unwavering support throughout the season. The event concluded with highlights from the team’s six top-10 victories, showcasing the remarkable journey that led to the national title
The White House Visit
Two days prior to the Ohio Stadium celebration, on April 14, 2025, the Ohio State football team visited the White House to be honored for their national championship victory. This visit was part of a longstanding tradition where championship teams are recognized at the White House. Ohio State was the second team to be honored during President Donald Trump’s second term, following the Florida Panthers’ Stanley Cup celebration in February. During the ceremony, Vice President JD Vance, an Ohio State alumnus, humorously mishandled the championship trophy, leading to a lighthearted moment that added to the day’s festivities.
A Legacy of Excellence
The 2025 national championship celebration was more than just a commemoration of a single season; it was a reflection of Ohio State’s enduring legacy in college football. The team’s journey to the title, marked by determination and teamwork, resonated with fans and the broader community. The events in Columbus and Washington, D.C., underscored the pride and joy that the Buckeyes brought to their supporters. (
As the Buckeyes look to the future, the 2025 national championship serves as a reminder of their commitment to excellence and the unwavering support of their fans. The “Celebration of Champions” was not just a celebration of a victory but a celebration of a community united by a shared passion for Ohio State football.
In the years to come, the 2025 season will be remembered not only for the championship but also for the unity and pride it fostered among the Ohio State community. The legacy of this team will continue to inspire future generations of Buckeyes
