WATCH: Ohio State hoists national championship trophy, sings alma mater

“All glory to God,” said linebacker C.J. Hicks, a junior who starred at Alter High School. “You know, it feels great to be a national champion. It’s a long season, but Coach (Mickey Marotti) and the whole training staff and (head coach Ryan Day) and all the leaders, we always talk about fighting and keep building and keep going. It’s the greatest feeling in the world.”

When it was over, players rushed the field and looked frantically for people to hug.

Confetti rained down from all over the field, covering some parts in white and gold footballs and others in read and white strips.

Quarterback Will Howard was introduced as the most valuable player for offense while linebacker Cody Simon claimed the award for defense, and everyone wanted to praise head coach Ryan Day for getting the team to the top of the mountain after a dispiriting loss to Michigan to end the regular season.

“To see Coach Day lift the trophy up, it’s once-in-a-lifetime experience,” said running back Quinshon Judkins. “And I get the experience with him. Such great group of guys, it’s been like, tremendous. I’m just so thankful.”

The players all congregated afterward to sing the alma mater, “Carmen Ohio,” with the band before separating again to celebrate with friends and loved ones.