After winning the CFP, an Ohio State star takes a scathing jab at Tennessee fans.
In the aftermath of Ohio State’s decisive 42-17 victory over the Tennessee Volunteers in the College Football Playoff (CFP) first-round game, the Buckeyes engaged in a series of actions that many perceived as direct jabs at Tennessee’s fan base.
Post-Game Antics
Following the win, Ohio State’s stadium resonated with a rendition of “Rocky Top,” the iconic fight song of the Tennessee Volunteers. This choice was seen as a deliberate act to mock the visiting team and its supporters. Additionally, the Buckeyes’ official social media channels shared a meme captioned “Not so Rocky on Top 🚫,” further amplifying the taunt.
Fan Reactions
The trolling did not go unnoticed. Tennessee fans expressed their displeasure across various platforms, interpreting Ohio State’s actions as unsportsmanlike. Conversely, Buckeyes supporters reveled in the moment, viewing it as a lighthearted celebration of their team’s success.
Media Commentary
The incident drew attention from sports analysts and commentators. Some criticized Ohio State for what they deemed unnecessary provocation, while others defended the actions as part of the competitive spirit inherent in college football. Notably, ESPN’s Kirk Herbstreit, an Ohio State alumnus, addressed the broader context of fan reactions and team performances during the CFP, though he did not specifically comment on the post-game trolling.
Historical Context
This is not the first instance of teams engaging in post-game antics aimed at opponents. Such actions often serve to intensify rivalries and can have lasting impacts on team relations and fan interactions. While some view these gestures as harmless fun, others believe they can cross the line into poor sportsmanship.