The Ten Greatest Buckeyes Of All-Time: #9 Jim Stillwagon

Coming in at #9 on my top ten list is another star from the 1968 “Super Sophomore” squad and probably the greatest defensive lineman ever to come out of Ohio State ... Jim Stillwagon.

Many younger Buckeye fans may have never even heard of Stillwagon, but if you ask any old timer about the defensive tackle their descriptions will be full of superlatives. Stillwagon, a product of Mount Vernon, Ohio, is a member of the College Football Hall of Fame and was a two time All-American. He received consensus All-American honors in 1969 and was a unanimous All-American selection, as well as Outland and Lombardi Trophy recipient, in 1970.

Stillwagon’s play can best be described as gritty. He was not a flashy lineman, for that is an almost oxymoronic combination of words. Until Mike Kudla came along, Stillwagon owned most Buckeye strength records and this power was obvious as he discarded opposing linemen like common trash at a diminutive (by today’s standard) 220 lbs.

Among the most impressive of “the Wagon’s” accomplishments was his selection as team MVP in 1970. That 1970 squad included several Buckeye greats, including #10 (on this list) Rex Kern and Jack Tatum, who also made the list.