Ohio State’s rivalry with Notre Dame has been filled with memorable moments, but few compare to Terry Glenn’s game-changing 82-yard touchdown in 1995. Not only did it turn the tide in a crucial matchup, but it also hilariously upstaged legendary talk show host and Notre Dame superfan Regis Philbin during a sideline interview.
A Slow Start and a Fierce Comeback
Heading into the highly anticipated showdown, the No. 7 Buckeyes faced off against the No. 15 Fighting Irish in Columbus. Notre Dame struck first, holding Ohio State’s offense in check early and building a 10-0 lead in the second quarter. Glenn got the Buckeyes on the board with a touchdown reception, but Notre Dame quickly answered, keeping OSU in a two-score hole.
By halftime, Ohio State had closed the gap to 17-14, but Notre Dame extended its lead with a field goal early in the third quarter. However, the momentum shifted when a muffed punt by the Irish gave OSU prime field position, leading to a touchdown that put the Buckeyes ahead 21-20 for the first time.
Regis Philbin’s Bad Timing
As Ohio State’s defense came up with a big stop, ABC turned its cameras to the sideline for a live interview with Regis Philbin. A die-hard Notre Dame fan, Philbin joked about how things had gone south for his Irish since he arrived on the field. When asked why, he replied confidently, “Breaks! Big breaks, you gotta admit that—but we’re coming back! You watch, we’re gonna bottle them up now… we got a lock on them, we’re gonna win!”
Less than three seconds after Philbin’s proclamation, quarterback Bobby Hoying fired a pass to Glenn, who took off downfield. With a brilliant cut inside, he weaved past two Notre Dame defenders and sprinted untouched into the end zone for an electrifying 82-yard touchdown—the longest of Ohio State’s season.
ABC immediately cut back to Philbin, whose stunned expression and open-mouthed shrug perfectly captured the moment. Trying to speak over the roar of the crowd, he managed to shout, “We’re still gonna win!” before the broadcast moved on.
A Game-Changing Moment
The play sent Ohio Stadium into a frenzy. Just minutes later, Notre Dame fumbled on its next possession, setting up another Buckeye touchdown. Although the Irish responded with one final score, OSU running back Eddie George delivered the knockout punch, breaking free for a 61-yard run that set up his own touchdown.
Ohio State never looked back, sealing a dominant 45-26 victory. Glenn’s game-breaking score became one of the defining moments in Buckeye history and helped set the tone for future matchups between these two storied programs.
Glenn’s Legacy and Philbin’s Heartbreak
Terry Glenn went on to win the Fred Biletnikoff Award as the nation’s top receiver that season and became a first-round NFL Draft pick. He later won a Super Bowl with the New England Patriots. Tragically, Glenn passed away in 2017, but his legacy remains intact as one of Ohio State’s all-time great receivers.
Regis Philbin, meanwhile, left Columbus heartbroken but remained a beloved figure in American television. He continued his illustrious career until his passing in 2020, ultimately being laid to rest on Notre Dame’s campus in Cedar Grove Cemetery.
Ohio State and Notre Dame have continued to deliver thrilling matchups over the years, but few moments compare to the day Terry Glenn left a legendary TV host speechless and helped cement his place in Buckeye lore.
