Dr. John Wilce was the Ohio State head coach in 1913 when, at the conclusion of the season's final practice, the seniors asked him if they could have one last hit on the blocking sled. Thus, the tradition of "senior tackle" was born.

While the final opponent is closely connected with the Michigan rivalry, Northwestern was the unlucky final opponent on the schedule that year. After the first senior tackle, the Bucks went on to soundly defeat the Wildcats 58-0.

At various times, the event has been carried out in private and in public, with upwards of 30,000 witnesses in Ohio Stadium. For many years, senior tackle took place the day before the Michigan game. Former coaches and players have addressed the team and those on hand.

These days, senior tackle is typically held at the conclusion of the Buckeyes final practice in Columbus, in front of friends and family only, before departing on the bowl trip.