Bill Rabinowitz | Buckeye Xtra Editor’s note: How did Ohio State football become a Buckeye Nation of true believers? In a 14-part series, we explore aspects that shaped OSU’s evolution from Saturday afternoon diversion to near-religious experience. Today: Race The issue of race is as old, and as current, as any in America. It permeates almost every aspect of life in this country. In the history of Ohio State football, it has been a source of both shame and pride. The Buckeyes had their first Black player in only their second year of existence. They also went decades without any Blacks on the roster. Ohio State didn’t have a Black assistant coach until 1968. The program’s history with race is a complex one, but it also is filled with glory, starting with Bill Bell 90 years ago and Bill Willis in the early 1940s. More recent times have included illustrious stars whose last names are unnecessary to Ohio State fans:…
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