COLUMBUS, Ohio (AP) -- Thousands of fans gathered Friday to honor No. 3 Ohio State for its perfect season.

Columbus Mayor Michael Coleman said the accomplishment deserves special recognition, and then unveiled a sign that read "12-0 Row" to be put at an undetermined street in the city.

Former Ohio State quarterback and 2006 Heisman Trophy winner Troy Smith also presented the team with the Big Ten Leaders Division trophy.

The Buckeyes went 12-0 in coach Urban Meyer's first season in Columbus, but were unable to play in a bowl due to NCAA violations under former coach Jim Tressel. It was the sixth unbeaten and untied season in the 123 years of the program.

Ohio State President Gordon Gee told the crowd of about 7,000: "This team faced the greatest challenge ever imagined."