Ohio State quarterback Will Howard’s jubilant celebration after the Buckeyes’ dominant 41-21 Rose Bowl victory over previously unbeaten Oregon took an unexpected turn on Wednesday night. As his teammates took to the stage to bask in the glory of the win, Howard found himself momentarily held up by security.
A video that surfaced on social media shows the quarterback being stopped by a male security employee dressed in a suit and headset. Although the details of their exchange remain unclear, the interaction delayed Howard from joining his teammates for the postgame festivities.
Teammates Have Fun With the Situation
Ohio State defensive tackle Tyleik Williams added some humor to the moment, laughing as he watched from the stage. Williams even mimicked the situation by stretching out his arms as if pretending to guard the stage himself, drawing chuckles from those around him.
Howard eventually made his way to join the team, but his evening wasn’t all about logistical mishaps. Another video captured a tender moment between Howard and his girlfriend, Lauren Leiker, as they celebrated Ohio State’s advancement to the College Football Playoff semifinals.
The couple was seen sharing a kiss amidst the crowd in Pasadena, California, standing in front of the stage as the postgame festivities unfolded. Howard, who has largely kept his personal life private, reportedly began dating Leiker in 2023.
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A Stellar Performance on the Field
Howard’s night wasn’t just memorable for the off-field moments—he was a standout in the Buckeyes’ victory. The quarterback delivered a stellar performance, racking up 319 passing yards and three touchdowns, leading his team to a decisive win over Oregon.
With the victory, No. 6 Ohio State punched its ticket to the College Football Playoff semifinals, where they’ll face No. 3 Texas at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, on Jan. 10. The game promises to be a marquee matchup as both teams vie for a spot in the national championship.
Somber Context in the College Football World
The Rose Bowl celebrations come amid a tragic backdrop in the college football world. The Sugar Bowl, the final quarterfinal playoff matchup between Georgia and Notre Dame, was postponed following a terrorist attack on Bourbon Street in New Orleans on Jan. 1.
The attack claimed at least 15 lives and injured dozens, prompting officials to move the game to Thursday, Jan. 2.
Despite the somber news, Howard and the Buckeyes continue their journey toward a potential national championship.
For Howard, a night of stellar performance, lighthearted moments, and personal connections made for a rollercoaster of emotions, setting the stage for what promises to be an exciting playoff semifinal.
