An Ohio State Legend Returns: Andy Katzenmoyer Kicks Off Our New 12th Warrior Happy Hour Series
Columbus, Ohio — On a warm summer evening, Buckeye fans from all walks of life packed the Horseshoe Lounge in downtown Columbus for the premiere of the much-anticipated “12th Warrior Happy Hour” series. The night was electric — not just because of the buzz of anticipation and the clinking of Buckeye-themed pint glasses, but because a true Ohio State legend was in the building: Andy Katzenmoyer.
A name that still echoes in the hearts of Scarlet and Gray faithful, Katzenmoyer was more than just a linebacker — he was a symbol of dominance. From 1996 to 1998, he patrolled the middle of the field like a heat-seeking missile, recording bone-rattling tackles and commanding the defense with a maturity far beyond his years. As a true freshman, he started for the Buckeyes. As a sophomore, he became the first OSU linebacker to win the Butkus Award. And in 1997, he helped anchor one of the most fearsome defenses in college football history.
Now, over two decades since he last wore No. 45 in Ohio Stadium, Katzenmoyer stood before an audience that revered him not only for what he did on the field, but for how he represented Buckeye toughness and grit off it. The kickoff event of the 12th Warrior Happy Hour was part reunion, part revival — a gathering designed to bring former Ohio State greats face-to-face with the fans who adored them.
“It’s amazing to be back here with Buckeye Nation,” Katzenmoyer said, gripping a microphone in one hand and a cold Columbus Brewing Company lager in the other. “This community gave me everything, and I’ll always be proud to call this place home.”
The event wasn’t just about nostalgia — though the room lit up when highlights of his infamous hit on Missouri quarterback Corby Jones were replayed on the projector. It was also a celebration of leadership, legacy, and the link between past and present Buckeyes. Katzenmoyer shared stories from his recruiting days, memories of playing under Coach John Cooper, and reflections on the pressure of playing for a program where anything less than a national championship felt like failure.
Fans mingled with alumni, enjoyed Buckeye-themed drinks like “Silver Bullet Sours” and “Zone Blitz IPAs,” and participated in a live Q&A with the linebacker legend. Several younger fans — who had only seen highlights of Katzenmoyer on YouTube — left with autographed jerseys and wide-eyed awe, newly minted fans of a player born before they were.
The 12th Warrior Happy Hour series is set to feature a rotating cast of Ohio State icons, from Heisman winners to unsung heroes. But kicking things off with Katzenmoyer sent a clear message: this series is not about the past fading into history — it’s about rekindling that fire, that pride, and that unshakable bond that makes Buckeye Nation unlike any other.
As the crowd raised one final toast, Katzenmoyer leaned into the mic and grinned: “Let’s make this a tradition — because legends don’t retire, they just find new ways to suit up.”
