Why is Ohio State's Mascot named Brutus?

Last Modified Jan 8, 2025 11:01 GMT
Ohio State Buckeyes
Ohio State Buckeyes (Source: Instagram/@ohiostatefb)

Ohio State University (OSU) is located in Columbus, Ohio, ans is one of the most prestigious public universities in the United States. Established in 1870, it is known for its extensive research programs, academic offerings, and vibrant campus life. The Ohio State Buckeyes football team has a rich history in college football. They compete in the Big Ten Conference and have achieved great success, including numerous national championships and conference titles. The team has been playing home games at Ohio Stadium in Columbus since 1922. The Buckeyes are recognized by both the university and the NCAA as having won eight national championships, six of which were awarded by major wire-service selectors.

Ohio State mascot Brutus

Ohio State's mascot is known as Brutus, named after the buckeye tree, which is recognized as Ohio's official state tree and produces small brown nuts. The choice of "Brutus" imparts a strong and formidable quality to the buckeye, with its roots in Latin meaning "heavy" or "muscular." Brutus Buckeye made his debut in 1965 as a student-made papier-mâché figure. Over time, he has transformed into the iconic character that fans recognize at Ohio State events. The name "Brutus" embodies the competitive spirit and strength characteristic of Ohio State's athletic teams.

The choice of the buckeye as the mascot stems from its status as Ohio's official state tree. Initially, a simple papier-mâché nut was crafted and worn over the head and torso, with legs protruding. This makeshift creation made its first appearance on October 30, 1965, during the Minnesota vs. Ohio State homecoming football game. As time progressed, the fragile papier-mâché nut was replaced with a more durable fiberglass shell. A campus-wide "Name the Buckeye" contest led to the selection of the name "Brutus Buckeye" on November 21, 1965. Kerry J. Reed, a then-Ohio State student, conceived the winning name. "Block O" took on the responsibility of caring for Brutus in December.

Also Read: What Is The Buckeyes Mascot Supposed To Be?

Ohio State mascot Brutus Buckeye Appearance

Ohio State mascot Brutus Buckeye sports an iconic look featuring a Buckeye head, a Block O hat, a scarlet and grey shirt adorned with "Brutus" and "00," red pants with an Ohio State towel draped over the front, and high white socks paired with black shoes. Notably, both male and female students serve as Brutus Buckeye, representing the spirit of Ohio State.

FAQs on Ohio State's Mascot Brutus

A. The name "Brutus Buckeye" was chosen in a campus-wide contest in 1965, inspired by Ohio's official state tree, the buckeye.

A. Ohio State students Ray Bourhis and Sally Huber initiated the idea of having a mascot in 1965, which led to the creation of Brutus Buckeye.

A. Brutus Buckeye's costume includes a buckeye head, a Block O hat, a scarlet and grey shirt with "Brutus" and "00," red pants with an Ohio State towel, and high white socks with black shoes.

A. Yes, Brutus Buckeye has made appearances in various advertisements, including ESPN's This Is SportsCenter and Home Depot commercials, as well as in NCAA video games and on The Daily Show as a guest correspondent.

A. Ohio Statdium is the home of Ohio State Buckeyes. 

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