Ohio Lawmaker Targets Flag-Planting with Felony Bill

Ohio State Representative Josh Williams introduced the 'O.H.I.O. Sportsmanship Act' following a brawl between Ohio State and Michigan, aiming to make flag-planting at Ohio Stadium a felony. The bill, House Bill 700, was proposed after Michigan attempted to plant their flag at midfield following a 13-10 victory over Ohio State, which led to a melee involving players and the use of pepper spray by police. The proposed legislation suggests that planting a flag at Ohio Stadium on the day of a college football game should be classified as a fifth-degree felony, punishable by up to 12 months in prison and a fine. Despite the introduction of the bill, House Speaker Jason Stephens expressed skepticism about its passage during the current legislative session, indicating it would need to be reintroduced in 2025. The Big Ten Conference has already fined both universities $100,000 each for the sportsmanship violations related to the incident. This move by Rep. Williams underscores the ongoing debate in college football over the sportsmanship and rivalry traditions like flag-planting.