Former Ohio State All-American, Pittsburgh Steelers draft pick has died

Ken Fritz, a former standout guard for Ohio State University and a draft pick for the Pittsburgh Steelers, has passed away, as reported by multiple sources. Fritz had a notable career as a football player, particularly during his time at Ohio State, where he achieved All-American status.

One of the most memorable moments involving Fritz occurred during the 1978 Gator Bowl when he was involved in an incident with Ohio State’s head coach, Woody Hayes. In a now-iconic photo, Hayes can be seen grabbing Fritz’s facemask as he attempted to restrain the coach from further altercation with a Clemson linebacker, Charlie Bauman. Despite speculation that Hayes had punched Fritz during the altercation, the lineman clarified that the coach was merely trying to free himself from the situation.

Fritz’s contributions to Ohio State’s football program were significant, and he concluded his college career as a consensus All-American in the 1979 season. While he was also drafted by the Pittsburgh Steelers in the 1980 NFL Draft, his impact and legacy at Ohio State remain noteworthy, particularly in light of the memorable incident involving Coach Hayes.

GET MORE NEWS HERE