The police at Ohio State University have announced an investigation into officers who used pepper spray on players from the Ohio State Buckeyes and Michigan Wolverines during a scuffle that erupted after Michigan’s narrow 13-10 victory over OSU.

In a statement shared on the social media platform X (formerly known as Twitter), Ohio State University police discussed the incident.

“After the game, officers from various law enforcement agencies helped to quell an on-field conflict. Throughout the skirmish, several law enforcement officers from both Ohio and Michigan used pepper spray. The OSUPD is leading the investigation regarding this incident,” the statement indicated.

Ohio State has not revealed whether the officers who deployed the pepper spray were part of the campus police force or from external agencies commonly engaged for security during such events. The identities of the officers have also not been disclosed.

Brian Steel, president of the Fraternal Order of Police Capital City Lodge 9, commented on X after the game, noting that at least one officer sustained injuries.

“After a confrontation between Ohio State and Michigan football players post-game, one officer was injured and taken to the hospital,” Steel reported. “Officers are allowed to use pepper spray to prevent assaults and ensure safety for themselves and others.”

Following Michigan’s victory over their longstanding rival Ohio State at Ohio Stadium, players from both teams engaged in a physical fight near the midfield after some Michigan players attempted to plant a Michigan flag at the center field, as reported by The Columbus Dispatch.

A physical brawl ensued among players from both teams, with numerous videos circulating on social media showing players delivering punches. Eventually, after several minutes, the players were separated.

Prior to the resolution of the brawl, Buckeyes defensive end Jack Sawyer seized the Michigan flag from the Wolverines players and threw it down onto the field, as reported by The Dispatch.

Eyewitnesses on the field indicated that the use of pepper spray caused at least two Michigan players to collapse as they rubbed their faces in discomfort.

What comments did Ryan Day make about the Ohio State-Michigan altercation?

After the game, Ohio State coach Ryan Day mentioned that he wasn’t fully informed about the details surrounding the fight.

“I’m not aware of all the particulars, but I do know that the players were trying to plant a flag on our field, and our team refused to allow that,” he stated. “I’ll learn exactly what occurred; it’s our field.”

Day also addressed his players after the situation was resolved.

“I spoke with the team post-game. While I don’t have all the specifics, we have a lot of prideful players who won’t simply stand by and let that happen,” he explained.

He did not provide any updates regarding the players affected by the pepper spray. A captured image by The Dispatch depicted Buckeyes defensive tackle Hero Kanu receiving treatment for his eyes following the altercation.

“At this moment, I’m not sure if I have all the information. There were several chaotic events occurring down there, but it seems like everyone is alright,” he remarked.

Ohio State athletic director Ross Bjork stated to The Dispatch that he requires more details about the incident.