The flags were supposed to tell a story. A solemn lowering, a pause, silence washing over a stadium of 100,000-plus, then a rise back to the skies. That’s how Ohio State quietly planned to honor slain conservative activist Charlie Kirk before its game against Ohio University. Instead, the plan unraveled amid denials, last-minute changes, and confusion for the color guard. By kickoff, the tribute dissolved into one of the most confusing pregame scenes in recent Buckeye history.

Word first slipped out through The Rooster, which reported Friday night that Ohio State had green-lit a post-anthem moment of silence where the flag in the south endzone would be lowered to half-mast, then raised again for the rest of the game. But by Saturday morning, OSU President Ted Carter was reportedly making calls to insist the report was just a “false rumor.”

The university followed with denials. Spokesman Ben Johnson told NBC4 the tribute was never in place. Even the color guard appeared unsure, lowering the flag halfway, then raising it back up during the band’s Script Ohio. Fans saw flags at half-mast in parts of the stadium, others flying full height, and nobody with a mic daring to say Kirk’s name. “They were waiting to lower the flag, and the order never came,” an inside source told The Rooster. “So they just did it mid-show.”

Any uncertainty before kickoff was overshadowed by another strong defensive performance from the Buckeyes. Matt Patricia’s unit gave up only one touchdown, a long play early in the third quarter, while keeping the Ohio offense quiet for the rest of the game. Arvell Reese set the tone with a key tackle. Caleb Downs followed with a sack, then Caden Curry broke up a pass to end the drive. The defense continues to play with speed, discipline, and confidence, giving Ohio State fans plenty to cheer about.

A night of shared Ohio pride

The rare matchup between Ohio State and Ohio University brought pride, passion, and plenty of friendly rivalry to Columbus. “I’m a Buckeye fan, season ticket holder for Ohio State,” said Julia Barber. “But when the Bobcats come to town, you gotta rep where you went. We belong in Athens, we love Athens, but deep down we will always be Buckeye fans.”

Ohio University alumni also came ready to show their colors. “I got to represent Athens,” said OU graduate Thomas Benadum. “I love that school. It’s the best school.” Others admitted to feeling torn. “I actually feel a little bit off because I’m usually head to toe in scarlet and gray,” said Dennis Bickmeier. “But I couldn’t resist the opportunity to support the Bobcats as well and let everyone know I’m an alum.”

The Bobcats also kept their enthusiasm high. “I’m really excited to sit down and watch the Bucks,” said Brynlynn Rider. Fans from both sides filled Ohio Stadium with scarlet, gray, and green, turning the night into a celebration of Ohio pride and a rivalry that felt both new and familiar.