It was a big day in D.C. as the Ohio State Buckeyes made a victorious trip to the White House to celebrate their 2024 national championship win.
What was meant to be a moment of honor and recognition turned into a lighthearted event—with President Donald Trump accidentally stirring up a little confusion during his speech.
Buckeyes Land in Washington with Bling and Bragging Rights
Three months after sealing the deal in the College Football Playoff, head coach Ryan Day and his Ohio State squad finally made their way to the nation’s capital.
The team didn’t come empty-handed—they brought along some serious hardware.
Each player proudly sported three commemorative rings: one for making the CFP, another for winning it, and a special Ohio State-issued championship ring.
These rings weren’t just flashy—they were full of meaning.
The national title ring even opened up to reveal scores from all four playoff games, including their final 34–23 triumph over Notre Dame.
Inside the ring? Tiny bits of confetti from their epic win at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, floating above a mini replica of the field.
Engraved in all three rings was their season-long motto: “Leave no doubt.”
Trump’s Oops Moment: The “Tennessee” Mix-Up
During the ceremony, Trump had high praise for quarterback Will Howard—but made a humorous slip-up.
While commending Howard’s performance, the president accidentally introduced him as “Tennessee quarterback Will Howard,” confusing the Buckeye star with the Volunteers’ team.
“I watched that game and said: ‘That guy is good!’” Trump said enthusiastically, before joking, “He’s going to be so rich—aye aye aye… to look like that and play like that, that’s a good combination.”
Despite the mix-up, Trump had nothing but admiration for Howard, predicting a long and successful future for the 23-year-old: “We’ll be watching him for 15 years, maybe longer.”
A Warm Welcome and a Bit of Nostalgia
Vice President JD Vance—an Ohio State alum himself—was also on hand to welcome the Buckeyes.
Though he had his own fumble moment (literally), dropping the CFP trophy during the ceremony, the energy remained upbeat and celebratory.
President Trump applauded the team’s perseverance throughout the season.
“This team showed the world that the road to greatness is paved by hard work, sweat, and often a great deal of adversity,” he said.
He even gave a knowing nod to their earlier setbacks. “I shouldn’t say this… but many counted you out after those losses to Oregon and that team up north—we won’t mention them (Michigan).
But you didn’t let the Buckeye nation down.”
Soaking Up the D.C. Experience
Before arriving at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue, the team made a quick visit to the National Mall to take in the sights. Then, it was straight to the White House for the big celebration.
For many players—especially the seniors eyeing the upcoming NFL Draft—it was a moment they’d dreamed about.
“It’s surreal. I love this place,” said team captain and defensive lineman Jack Sawyer.
Quarterback Will Howard chimed in, calling the rings a “combination of a lot of hard work, sacrifice, and love.”
More Sports Royalty in the Capital
Ohio State isn’t the only team getting the presidential treatment this month.
The Los Angeles Dodgers already stopped by earlier in April to celebrate their World Series win.
Up next? The Philadelphia Eagles will be in Washington on April 28 to mark their Super Bowl LIX victory over the Kansas City Chiefs.
As for the Chiefs, they’ve been invited too—to make up for a canceled 2020 visit due to the COVID-19 pandemic.