The bitter cold temperatures in central Ohio didn’t keep Ohio State students inside after the Buckeyes secured the College Football Playoff national title late Monday night.
Within minutes of the clock ticking down on the Buckeyes’ 34-23 victory over the Irish, students were flooding out across the Columbus campus, quickly making their way to the gates of Ohio Stadium.
Chants of “O-H,” “I-O!” rang out as the crowd converged on a shuttered Ohio Stadium. By midnight, students had successfully forced their way into the stadium.
What did Ohio State students say about rushing the stadium?
Thomas Schmnasky, a freshman, said he didn’t expect to end up on the field at the Horseshoe after the game.
“It’s really kind of surreal,” Schmansky said.
Natalie Freihammer, a senior, said the national championship victory was a very exciting moment for students who hadn’t seen a victory over Michigan. Still, she was amazed how far the celebration went.
“It’s crazy. I was surprised that the cops are so supportive,” Freihammer said.
Police officers inside the stadium also appeared to be enjoying the atmosphere after fans made it inside. Some took videos and photos of fans who asked them to.
By about 12:20 a.m., most students had started filing out.
(This story has been updated to add new information.)
