Ohio State’s Velazquez Aims for Back-to-Back Titles with Rival Schools

ATLANTA — Joey Velazquez, a linebacker for Ohio State, is on the verge of making history. If the Buckeyes defeat Notre Dame in Monday night’s College Football Playoff final, Velazquez will become one of the few athletes to win back-to-back national championships with two different schools — and in one of college football’s fiercest rivalries.

Velazquez, a Columbus, Ohio, native, previously played for Michigan from 2019 to 2023, contributing primarily on special teams. He appeared in 20 games over five seasons, recording seven tackles and recovering a crucial fumble during a 2021 game against Wisconsin. “Good thing Joey likes to do curls, because he had to curl that ball in and hold it,” then-Michigan head coach Jim Harbaugh said at the time. “That was a big play.”

After earning a scout team player of the week award and playing in Michigan’s 2021 playoff semifinal loss to Georgia, Velazquez transferred to Ohio State last winter. His decision was driven by a desire to be closer to his family after his father, Jason, faced health issues. “I’m just thankful that God put me in the opportunities to be with these guys and these great players,” Velazquez said during CFP media day.

Velazquez’s journey is rare, especially given the intense rivalry between Michigan and Ohio State. Justin Boren, an offensive lineman, is one of the few who have crossed the divide, transferring from Michigan to Ohio State in 2010. Velazquez, however, could become the first to win consecutive national titles with both programs.

At Michigan, Velazquez won three Big Ten football championships and one in baseball, where he batted .255 with nine home runs over 100 games. At Ohio State, he has appeared in 13 games this season, contributing on special teams and recording one tackle. Despite limited playing time, his teammates have embraced him. “He’s really here for the betterment of our team,” said Ohio State linebacker Cody Simon. “He’s grown to be a brother of mine now.”

Velazquez’s unique path has drawn attention, but he remains focused on the task at hand. “Hopefully, I have the opportunity to win both national championships,” he said. “I’ll let my kids decide whatever team they want to pick.”

Ohio State enters the championship game as an 8.5-point favorite over Notre Dame. A victory would not only secure the Buckeyes’ first title since 2014 but also cement Velazquez’s place in college football history.