Shock and Sorrow: Ohio State Football Legend’s Sudden Passing at 71 Sparks Outpouring of Prayers

When you think about the unsung heroes who shape a champion’s story, who comes to mind? For Ohio State Buckeyes fans, Ted Smith wasn’t just another name on the roster—he was the relentless force in the trenches who made Archie Griffin’s back-to-back Heisman wins possible. Passing away at 71, Smith leaves behind a legacy that reminds us all: sometimes the biggest impact isn’t about flashy highlights, but about the grit, the grind, and the sheer will to adapt and excel—from linebacker to All-American offensive guard. It’s bittersweet to reflect on a time when linemen like Ted redefined toughness in a smaller, scrappier game, long before today’s towering athletes stormed the field. Brace yourself for a story that’s as much about heart as it is about history, honoring a Buckeye who never left the fight or the fandom. LEARN MORE.

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