College sports are more than just matchups and teams, especially for those who are part of those institutions. Along with academics and athletics, the college experience is shaped by cultures and traditions unique to the place. These traditions are passed on through generations and form an integral part of campus life. Like any great program, Ohio State’s football culture comes with some truly iconic traditions.

Two of the most memorable are the “Tunnel of Pride” and the “Dot the i” performance by the OSU Marching Band. But where did these traditions come from, and what do they truly symbolize? Let’s dive in and explore these cherished traditions that make the game day experience so special.

When did ‘Tunnel of Pride’ begin?

The “Tunnel of Pride” is quite a newer tradition if compared to some of Ohio State’s other traditions. Back in 1995, when the Buckeyes were getting ready to play against Notre Dame’s Fighting Irish at home for the first time in almost 50 years. To pump up the team even more for this big game, the Director of Athletics, Andy Geiger and the OSU quarterback from 1968 through 1970, Rex Kern, came up with an idea. They reached out to the former Buckeyes players attending the game and invited them to create a human tunnel for the current team to run through as they took the field.

The success of that first tunnel entrance made it an instant tradition, and it became more significant during the annual rivalry game against Michigan. It’s also been used for bowl games and, occasionally, to mark the start of important seasons. The Tunnel of Pride may be a relatively new tradition compared to some others, but its emotional power has made it a Buckeye game day staple.

What is ‘Dot the i’ tradition of Ohio State?

Now, “Dot the i” is something completely different, and it’s about the Ohio State Marching Band. The band is popularly known as, “The Best Damn Band in the Land” or “TBDBITL”. It’s part of the band’s pre-game routine, where they form the “Script Ohio”. The formation spells out the word “Ohio” on the field, and one lucky sousaphone player gets to be the dot in the “i”.

It’s a huge honor which is usually given to a fourth or fifth-year sousaphone player. When the chosen sousaphone player reaches the top of the “i,” the drum major gives them a high-five, and they march to the spot, and take a bow to the crowd. While the exact reason behind having someone dot the “i” remains unclear, it’s a real crowd-pleaser and a moment of pure Buckeye pride.

This tradition goes way back to the 1930’s. The Script Ohio formation was first performed by the band on October 10, 1936, at Ohio Stadium. However, the “dotting of the i” was not part of the original performance. The idea of having a band member “dot the i” originated with band director Eugene Weigel in 1936. Initially given to an E-flat cornet player, John Brungart, the tradition was shifted to a sousaphone player in the fall of 1937. Over the years, the “i” has also been dotted with special guests, such as celebrities or individuals who have made significant contributions to Ohio State, such as the legendary coach Woody Hayes, golf icon Jack Nicklaus, and even comedian Bob Hope.

Both the “Tunnel of Pride” and “Dot the i” have become more than just traditions. From honoring past players to creating unforgettable game day experiences, these moments bring the entire OSU community together. These traditions will continue to be a big part of what makes Ohio State football culture so special.