One would think that the winning team’s star quarterback would be automatically allowed to attend the post-game celebration following a College Football Playoff win at the Rose Bowl.
Well, apparently not.
In the aftermath of Ohio State’s 41-21 trouncing of #1 Oregon on Wednesday, the Ohio State Buckeyes partied with roses firmly implanted in their teeth on a stage as they received their Rose Bowl trophy and gave rousing speeches to their fans—everyone except star QB Will Howard, who was mysteriously blocked from being allowed on the stage.
Will Howard can’t get on the stage!
— Adam King (@AdamKing10TV) January 2, 2025
Let Will on the podium. pic.twitter.com/6lEGb5H7US
In the video, Buckeyes defender Tyleik Williams came to his quarterback’s aid in his efforts to get on stage. However, he was blocked after being told his entry would pose a weight issue. Howard attempted to enter from the other side but was told the same thing.
Eventually, Howard managed to celebrate with fans and his girlfriend.
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Some have speculated that Howard’s exclusion from the celebration stage was due to his praise of Jesus Christ in his post-game interview.
“First and foremost, I want to thank my Lord & Savior, Jesus Christ for giving me this opportunity…”
— Jon Root (@JonnyRoot_) January 2, 2025
- Ohio State QB Will Howard after their CFB Playoff win over Oregon pic.twitter.com/LsCRuplEsG
However, Ohio State’s football team is full of devout Christians.
Multiple Ohio State athletes led a worship service on campus & many students were baptized/accepted Jesus 🙌🏼 pic.twitter.com/hpbu3jT8H8
— Jon Root (@JonnyRoot_) August 27, 2024
In addition, several Buckeyes with Bible verses on their eye black made their way onto the stage. Had suppressing the praise of Jesus been the intent, many more players would have been excluded from the stage.
So, why was he blocked? As much as one is inclined not to believe the media, the weight concern is likely the real reason.
