Ohio State, Michigan players involved in melee after Buckeyes loss, multiple people pepper sprayed

COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) — Michigan players planted their team flag at midfield of Ohio Stadium on Saturday afternoon after a 13-10 win over No. 2 Ohio State, leading to a brawl between players from both teams with police attempting to separate the sides and pepper spray being used.

According to videos shot of the incident, including by NBC4, Michigan players were gathering at midfield after time expired. With encouragement from teammates, offensive lineman Raheem Anderson and running back Terrence Dunlap planted the flag and were immediately met by Ohio State players, who had been with the band singing Carmen Ohio after suffering their fourth straight loss in the series.

Players and others began scuffling, with police attempting to get separate the sides. A fight for control of the flag began, with Ohio State defensive end Jack Sawyer ripping it from its pole and throwing it to the field. Cornerback Davison Igbinosun collected it and attempted to walk away with it before a person in Michigan gear went to reclaim it, leading to more scuffling.

In his postgame news conference, Day had few details and didn’t immediately know if any players were hurt.

“I know those guys were looking to put a flag on the field and our guys weren’t going to let that happen,” said Ohio State coach Ryan Day.

Athletic director Ross Bjork declined to comment on the incident.

The win was Michigan’s fourth straight in the series, with Ohio State’s last win coming in 2019. The Buckeyes dropped to 10-2 and out of the running for a spot in the Big Ten championship game. They remain in strong contention for a spot in the College Football Playoff, the first year it has been expanded to include 12 teams.

Ohio State’s next game will likely be in the first round of the playoff on Dec. 20 or 21. Michigan improves to 7-5 and will next play in a bowl game.