The 2012 season brought legendary head coach Urban Meyer back to the Ohio State sidelines. Unfortunately for Meyer and his Buckeyes, the choice by OSU to play in the Gator Bowl the previous season cost them when NCAA sanctions were levied upon the program for Tattoo Gate. Meyer's first Ohio State team would not be eligible to participate in a bowl. To the coach's credit, he rallied the players to a perfect 12-0 season and a Leaders Division Championship.

These hard-to-come-by Gold Pants were awarded to a former starting defensive back after a thrilling 26-21 win over Michigan. The recipient's initials and uniform number have been blurred digitally to protect his identity.