A Tradition Rooted in History
Ohio State’s Block O program was introduced in 2020 as a tribute to Bill Willis, the Hall of Famer who broke the NFL’s color barrier. The initiative spotlights players who demonstrate the grit, responsibility and integrity that Willis embodied on and off the field.
This year’s honoree, senior wide receiver Brandon Inniss, was selected as the 2026 Block O recipient, joining a short list of standout Buckeyes who have carried the tradition forward. His selection underscores the program’s commitment to recognizing athletes who reflect those enduring principles.
Inniss capped his collegiate career with a 2025 season that featured 35 receptions for 271 yards and three touchdowns, while also contributing significantly on special teams as a punt and kickoff returner. His versatility earned him a spot on the preseason watchlist for the Paul Hornung Award, which honors the most dynamic player in college football.
The honor places Inniss as the third wide receiver to receive the Block O distinction, following Kamryn Babb in 2022 and Xavier Johnson in 2023. Each recipient has been celebrated not only for on‑field performance but also for leadership and character, traits that coaches say define the Buckeye identity.
Ohio State’s leadership, including head coach Ryan Day, highlighted Inniss’s role as a two‑time team captain and his influence on younger players. Day noted that Inniss exemplifies the toughness and accountability that the program seeks to cultivate, ensuring the legacy of Bill Willis continues to shape future generations of Buckeyes.