An Ohio State-Michigan sideline scuffle knocked a ref to the ground

Surprising to absolutely no one, the Ohio State-Michigan game Saturday had both teams fired up, and things got a little chippy early during the second quarter when a brief scuffle broke out.

The No. 2 Buckeyes were at first-and-10 on Michigan’s 42-yard line early in the second quarter when Ohio State quarterback Will Howard connected with wide receiver Jeremiah Smith for a five-yard gain.

After the whistle on the Michigan sideline, Smith was tackled to the ground and surrounded by Wolverines players. As Smith got up, it looked like some heated words were exchanged, and there appeared to be some pushing and shoving from both sides — though it’s unclear who exactly started it.

As the scuffle made its way onto the field, it looked like things could get out of hand quickly. Thankfully, it didn’t, but amid all the chaos, an official was knocked down in a seemingly dangerous spot.

It wouldn't be The Game without things getting chippy between Ohio State and Michigan pic.twitter.com/zNjWM5ik5G

— FOX College Football (@CFBONFOX) November 30, 2024

One of the officials was knocked over during the skirmish between Ohio State and Michigan pic.twitter.com/VeLQeGGc8F

— FOX College Football (@CFBONFOX) November 30, 2024

The referee seemed to be OK after almost getting trampled and was helped up. Both teams were dealt off-setting penalties because of the skirmish.