During his time in Columbus, Ohio State went 4-0 against Michigan, won 43 games, and appeared in two consecutive BCS National Championship Games. Laurinaitis -- who set the BCS championship game record with 18 tackles against LSU in 2007 -- was inducted into the Ohio State Athletics Hall of Fame in 2018.

COLUMBUS, Ohio — Former Ohio State linebacker James Laurinaitis will be inducted into the NFF College Football Hall of Fame as part of the 2026 class. He will become the 29th Buckeye to be enshrined. Laurinaitis spent four seasons with the Buckeyes (2005-08), putting together one of the most decorated careers ever at the position.

Hankton signed a two-year contract on Jan. 1 to replace Brian Hartline, who is now USF's head coach and is set to make $3.5 million annually. Hartline made $2 million as Ohio State’s offensive coordinator and wide receivers coach last season. Ohio State has not yet announced Hartline’s replacement as offensive coordinator.

James Laurinaitis , one of only eight three-time All-Americans in Ohio State history, will be inducted into the College Football Hall of