On a memorable Wednesday night, January 1, Ohio State quarterback Will Howard delivered the performance of a lifetime, leading his team to a commanding 41-21 victory over the No. 1-ranked Oregon Ducks in the Rose Bowl. It was a career-defining moment for Howard, marked by resilience, skill, and gratitude. But while the game itself was a celebration of talent and teamwork, the aftermath stirred controversy, leaving fans divided and the internet ablaze.

A Game to Remember

Howard’s performance was nothing short of spectacular. On the grand stage of the Rose Bowl, he showcased his leadership and athletic prowess, guiding Ohio State to one of its most celebrated victories. After the game, Howard took a moment to express gratitude, delivering a heartfelt message:

“First and foremost, I’ve got to thank my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ for giving me this opportunity,” he said. Reflecting on how far he had come, he added, “A younger me would be in awe right now… but we’re not done yet.”

The humility and faith behind his words resonated with many, highlighting a player who wasn’t just focused on the scoreboard but also on the journey and the blessings that brought him there.

The Unexpected Snub

Despite his incredible performance, Howard faced an unexpected obstacle after the game. As the team celebrated their win on stage, Howard was visibly blocked from joining his teammates. The incident quickly drew attention, sparking questions and criticism.

Howard later explained the reasoning provided by officials. “Apparently, there’s a weight limit on the stage,” he said with a touch of humor. “Guys, they’re literally blocking me out.” However, the explanation didn’t sit well with fans or commentators, many of whom suspected something more troubling at play.

Social Media Erupts

The incident gained traction online when The Redheaded Libertarian, a prominent social media figure, pointed out the awkward timing of Howard’s exclusion. She wrote, “Will Howard thanked his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ after winning the Rose Bowl. He was then the only player on the team physically blocked from going on stage.”

Fans and followers were quick to weigh in, with some accusing officials of anti-Christian bias. One commenter wrote, “Christians are under attack, literally & spiritually. We have to win our society’s institutions back from those who’ve taken them over.” Another added, “What a disgrace.”

Others were dismayed by the apparent lack of solidarity from Howard’s teammates. “Even worse that not one of his teammates stood up for him and pulled him on stage,” one commenter observed. The Redheaded Libertarian echoed this sentiment, calling it “unsportsmanlike and unbrotherly conduct.”

The Divide Over Faith

While many supported Howard’s public expression of faith, not everyone agreed. One critic remarked, “When athletes thank their god after a win, I cringe. It’s as if they’re suggesting divine intervention won them the game.”

In defense of Howard, The Redheaded Libertarian responded, “He thanked God for the opportunity to play. He didn’t claim divine intervention secured the win.” This rebuttal struck a chord with Howard’s supporters, who argued that gratitude and faith shouldn’t be misconstrued as arrogance or misplaced priorities.

Calls for Accountability

The controversy didn’t end there. Many fans called for accountability from event organizers and networks involved. “Why would any player be blocked from celebrating on stage?” one user demanded. “ESPN and the Rose Bowl owe Howard an apology.”

Others questioned the optics of the situation, arguing that the exclusion sent the wrong message. “This wasn’t just a logistical issue. It felt personal,” one commenter said. “His teammates should’ve helped him up. That’s what brotherhood is about.”

Moving Forward

Despite the controversy, Will Howard’s performance remains the highlight of the game. His poise, talent, and humility stood out, inspiring fans far beyond Ohio State’s community. While questions about the incident linger, Howard’s focus remains on the future.

As he said after the game, “We’re not done yet.” With his unwavering faith and determination, Howard’s story is far from over—and his best moments are likely still to come.