Ohio State -- RIOTS IN COLUMBUS ... Cops Bust Out Tear Gas

The Buckeyes became bloodshot-watery-eyes in Columbus last night ... when cops sprayed three canisters of tear gas at out-of-control OSU fans celebrating the big win over Oregon in the National Championship game.

Cops also used pepper spray to control the scene -- after legions of fans took to the streets near the OSU campus and went crazy ... some setting dumpster fires in the streets.

Hundreds of cops were called to the scene to control the crowd -- many of the officers dressed in full riot gear. According to reports, cops made a "handful" of arrests.

Oregon fans also spent the night with tears running down their faces ... for a different reason.