After an astonishing 13-2 season, Ohio State University (OSU) is headed to the NCAA National Championship game. Throughout the season and playoffs, the team has displayed a genuine belief and trust in God—more than a shout-out after a victory.
“This is just so POWERFUL,” said Army Veteran and podcast host Graham Allen in a recent social media post.
An Astonishing Number of Ohio State Football Players Kneel and Pray Before Game
Ohio State will face Notre Dame (14-1) in the National Championship on Jan. 20 in Atlanta. The last time the two were paired in a game was September 2023, when OSU won 17-14. OSU has defeated Notre Dame each of the six times the two teams went head-to-head since 1995.
There’s something special about the football team at Ohio State. Over the summer, tight end Gee Scott Jr. had preached at a local church, invited fellow teammates, and was invited to baptize seven men on the team. And as the team headed to fall camp, many wore “Jesus shirts” and received affirmations from others—including some from Michigan fans.
Players knelt and prayed before the team’s overwhelming playoff victory (28-14) Friday over the University of Texas at Austin. While this act is somewhat common before games, this was a remarkable display of faith.
Spanning more than 35 yards on the field, players lined up on five-yard lines, and almost every player on the roster participated.
“This is just so POWERFUL,” said podcast host Graham Allen. “Nearly EVERY SINGLE OHIO STATE PLAYER ran out of the tunnel, GOT ON A KNEE, and said a prayer before their victory against Texas…”
More than 200,000 people have watched the footage, and many—fans and rivals alike—affirmed how the players stand for Christ.
“I’m not an OSU fan, but the public display of Christianity from young men in such a public way is amazing,” offered one person. “Jesus is King!”
Another said, “Wow! I missed that…really wanted Tx to win, but this has won me over!”
Someone else commented, “Love seeing these young men emerge as God’s leaders. What a blessing they are.”
This is just so POWERFUL🔥🔥🔥
Nearly EVERY SINGLE OHIO STATE PLAYER ran out of the tunnel, GOT ON A KNEE, and said a prayer before their victory against Texas…
— Graham Allen (@GrahamAllen_1) January 12, 2025