Though it was not the only passion in Hayes’ life, football was the most public. Coming on the heels of a string of short-term coaches, Hayes was the first OSU head coach to stay with the team long enough to develop the kind of relationship with players, fans, officials, and the media that would make his name remembered in the hallowed halls of college football. From the beginning of his career with the Buckeyes in 1951 to its end in 1978, Woody led his players to five national championships (three by consensus), 13 Big 10 championships, eight Rose Bowls, four undefeated seasons, and 205 total wins. His “10 Year War” with the University of Michigan’s head coach Bo Schembechler was the highlight of one of the greatest rivalries in college football.

This photo was taken during Hayes’ first year with the Buckeyes. Hayes on the field, 1951

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