In the Rose Bowl, Ohio State quarterback Will Howard led the Buckeyes to a resounding 41-21 victory over the top-seeded Oregon Ducks, passing for 319 yards and three touchdowns.
Unfortunately, when the final whistle blew, a contentious incident tainted the senior quarterback’s outstanding performance.
Following their victory in the College Football Playoffs, the Buckeyes took the stage for the Rose Bowl trophy ceremony. A security guard at the stadium prevented Howard from joining his colleagues on the stage.
This incident’s video went viral on social media, igniting debate among college football fans.
At a news conference on Sunday morning, Howard made his first public comments about the incident.
“There was a severe weight limit. Through team insider Chase Brown, he added, “I’m not sure if it was a badly executed fat joke or what this guy was trying to do—no, I’m kidding.” He must have mentioned that there was a weight restriction and that there were too many passengers on it. It was just that.
“In the end, I crossed over and jumped aboard. A group of us had to enter covertly. I believe Lathan (Ransom) and Caleb (Downs) had to sneak on, but you didn’t see it. It’s what it is, even though they tried to be severe about it. I got nothing, so I suppose they’re doing their job.”
Earlier this week, the Rose Bowl issued a statement explaining the situation. According to the game’s historian, “The College Football Playoff mandates that only players of the game, team captains, and the head coach are permitted on stage.” They added, “Although Will eventually made it onto the stage, the decision was influenced by the stage’s weight limit and the need to ensure everyone’s safety during the postgame awards ceremony.”
Now, Howard and the Buckeyes focus on a Cotton Bowl game against the Texas Longhorns, who are ranked fifth. At 7:30 p.m. EST on Friday, that College Football Playoff semifinal game will begin.
