In the aftermath of Michigan’s nail-biting 13-10 victory over Ohio State, a moment of high drama unfolded on the field. The Wolverines attempted to plant their iconic Block M flag at midfield, sparking a confrontation with Ohio State players. Amid the chaos, Jason Avant, former Michigan wide receiver and current sideline reporter for Michigan Radio, became an unlikely hero by reclaiming the flag from Buckeye players.
Avant’s Quick Thinking Saves the Day
Reflecting on the incident, Avant revealed his actions were spontaneous.
“I wasn’t looking to do it,” Avant told the Detroit News. “I saw a dude with a Buckeye jersey with the flag, and I was like, ‘Ah, let me get that back.’”
Avant approached Ohio State defensive end Jack Sawyer, who had grabbed the flag. Without hesitation, he took it back. However, the situation escalated when Buckeye cornerbacks Davison Igbinosun and Miles Lockhart joined the fray. Defensive lineman Dominic Kirks even shoved Avant in an attempt to stop him, but the 41-year-old, who still works out regularly, stood his ground.
“I thought I did it in the classiest way possible,” Avant said, laughing off the altercation.
The “Flag Man” Moment
Once Avant secured the flag, he proudly waved it on his way to the Michigan locker room, even as Ohio State fans hurled objects at him. He then held the flag high in front of Michigan players entering the tunnel, earning a hero’s welcome.
“The ‘Flag Man’ is what my teammates are calling me now,” Avant said, embracing the nickname.
A Rivalry Intensified
Avant’s bold actions added a new chapter to one of college football’s fiercest rivalries. His refusal to let Ohio State players claim the Block M symbol resonated deeply with Michigan fans, becoming a symbol of pride and defiance.
In a game already filled with tension, Avant’s instinctive defense of Michigan’s flag underscored the passion that defines The Game. For the Wolverine faithful, his actions will be remembered as one of the defining moments of the 2024 season.