The highly anticipated College Football Playoff championship game on Monday night will showcase a clash between two historic programs, No. 7 Notre Dame and No. 8 Ohio State. The Irish are set to don their signature blue jerseys paired with gold pants at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, while the Buckeyes will sport their white road uniforms featuring gray sleeves for the first time since their 2022 semifinal match against Georgia.

One of the most iconic aspects of this matchup is the helmets worn by both teams. Notre Dame's players will wear their renowned golden helmets, which stand out in contrast to Ohio State's classic silver helmets adorned with stickers. These stickers symbolize more than just decoration; they represent a storied tradition that has been part of Ohio State football for over five decades. Initiated by trainer Ernie Biggs in 1967, each sticker awarded to a player signifies an achievement during the season. Players like Emeka Egbuka have noted that the number of stickers on a helmet reflects respect and fear from opponents, making it a motivational tool for the team.

The tradition of helmet stickers extends beyond mere symbolism. Each sticker measures 1.25 inches, and a single helmet can accommodate up to 47 stickers per side. When a player receives their first sticker, it is placed at the bottom left of the helmet, forming a pyramid as more stickers are added. While Ohio State may be the most famous for its helmet decals, they are not alone. Thirteen other Division I FBS programs also use similar reward systems. However, Ohio State’s approach remains unique, rewarding individual achievements such as touchdowns or reaching specific benchmarks. This system fosters a culture of excellence and recognition within the team, ensuring that every player understands the value of their contributions.

This championship game is more than just a contest of skill and strategy; it highlights the rich traditions that define college football. The visual spectacle of these uniforms and helmets serves as a reminder of the legacy and pride associated with each program. As players take the field, the stickers on Ohio State’s helmets will tell a story of hard work, dedication, and the pursuit of greatness. This tradition embodies the spirit of teamwork and personal achievement, inspiring future generations to strive for excellence in all they do.