Will Howard’s celebration was unexpectedly delayed after Ohio State’s 41-21 victory over the previously unbeaten Oregon in the 111th Rose Bowl on Wednesday night.
The Buckeyes quarterback couldn’t get on the stage to join his teammates for the postgame festivities after being stopped by a security guard, as seen in a video that surfaced on social media.
Howard had an exchange with a male employee, who was wearing a suit and a headset, but it’s unclear what was said.
Ohio State defensive tackle Tyleik Williams was seen laughing at Howard while watching him from the stage.
He also mocked the moment by putting out his arms and pretending to guard the stage.
In another video, Howard shared a sweet moment with his girlfriend after the No. 6 Buckeyes advanced into the College Football Playoff semifinals to face Texas.
The couple was seen kissing while standing in the crowd in front of the stage in Pasadena, Calif.
Howard, who is fairly private about his personal life, is said to have started dating Lauren Leiker in 2023.
Howard finished with 319 passing yards and three touchdowns in the blowout win.
Ohio State and Texas will meet in the College Football Playoff semifinal at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas on Jan. 10.
The final quarterfinal matchup between Georgia and Notre Dame in the Sugar Bowl was postponed to Thursday after a deadly attack on Bourbon Street in New Orleans on Jan. 1 that left at least 10 dead and dozens of others injured.
