The Touchdown Club of Columbus was founded in Columbus, Ohio, in 1956 by Sam B. Nicola at the request of state auditor James A. Rhodes, who later became governor of the state. Nicola served as the club's president until his death in 1993. More than a decade later, his son Sam Nicola Jr. took over the Touchdown Club.
The Touchdown Club of Columbus gives several awards to recognize outstanding athletes.
The Sammy Baugh Trophy is awarded annually to the nation's top collegiate passer.
This honor goes to the NCAA's top running back, recently named for Hall of Famer Jim Brown.
Named for Paul Warfield, this honor is given to the nation's top collegiate wide receiver.
Given yearly to the top collegiate offensive lineman. Named for Ohio State great and Hall of Famer Jim Parker.
Named for Bill Willis, this award is given yearly to the top collegiate defensive lineman.
Named for Jack Lambert, this award is given yearly to the top collegiate linebacker.
Since 1991, the Jack Tatum Trophy is given yearly to the top collegiate defensive back. Named after the legendary Jack Tatum
The Archie Griffin Award signifies college football's Most Valuable Player for the entire season. It is named in honor of the only two-time Heisman Trophy winner, Archie Griffin of Ohio State.
Named for Chic Harley, this award is presented to the College Football Player of the Year.
This award, which got its current name in 2012, differs from Sammy Baugh Trophy in that it goes to top quarterback, rather than the top passer. It is named for 2010 and 2011 award-winner Kellen Moore, who went 50–3 as Boise State's starting quarterback, making him the FBS all-time leader in wins at the position.