John Cooper to Ring Ohio State’s Victory Bell in Week 2
The Ohio State football program has introduced a new game day tradition, and it has already become a talking point among Buckeye fans. Before each home game, a special figure tied to Ohio State’s history will be invited to ring the Victory Bell at Ohio Stadium. Last week, the honor went to Archie Griffin, the two-time Heisman Trophy winner who remains one of the most beloved Buckeyes of all time. Now, for Week 2, it has been announced that former head coach John Cooper will step into that role.
Cooper’s selection has stirred some conversation, mainly because of his complicated legacy with the program. He coached the Buckeyes from 1988 until 2000, and while he had plenty of successful seasons, his tenure is often remembered for his struggles against Michigan. His record in that rivalry game stood at 2-10-1, which ultimately weighed heavily on his reputation despite his overall accomplishments. National championships also slipped out of reach during his time in charge, which is another reason fans remain divided about his coaching era.
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Still, Cooper is an important figure in Ohio State’s history. He recruited great players, brought consistent success to the program, and helped elevate the Buckeyes to national prominence in the 1990s. Over the years, his role as a coach has been debated, but his character has rarely been questioned. Now 88 years old, he is still deeply connected to Ohio State, still attends games, and still shares his thoughts on the team through radio appearances. His passion for the Buckeyes has never faded, even after being dismissed from his role as head coach more than two decades ago.
The decision to have him ring the Victory Bell is seen by many as a gesture of respect, showing that the Ohio State community continues to embrace him as part of its tradition and heritage. Fans may have mixed feelings about his record, but there is little doubt he will receive a loud cheer when he is introduced at Ohio Stadium before the matchup against Grambling State.
Interestingly, the current head coach, Ryan Day, faces his own struggles in the Michigan rivalry, much like Cooper once did. However, Day recently delivered a national championship, something that Cooper never managed. That contrast makes Cooper’s presence even more intriguing—his story serves as both a reminder of the challenges of the past and a sign of how traditions continue to evolve in Columbus.
So when the bell rings on Saturday afternoon, it will not just be about signaling the start of another game. It will also be a moment of recognition, one that honors a coach who, despite all the criticism, gave much to the program and remains a Buckeye at heart. Fans may debate the choice, but it’s safe to say the atmosphere in “the Shoe” will still carry plenty of energy when John Cooper takes his turn in this new ritual.
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