Baker Mayfield's Flag Plant: Which Game Was It?

Hey guys! Let's dive into the story of when Baker Mayfield, the charismatic and often polarizing quarterback, famously planted the Oklahoma Sooners flag on Ohio State's field. This was more than just a game; it was a statement, a moment of pure college football audacity that everyone still talks about. So, what game are we talking about? It was the September 9, 2017 showdown between the Oklahoma Sooners and the Ohio State Buckeyes at Ohio Stadium in Columbus, Ohio. This game wasn't just another match on the schedule; it was a highly anticipated clash between two of college football's powerhouses. Mayfield, known for his swagger and competitive spirit, orchestrated a decisive 31-16 victory for the Sooners, and the flag-planting incident afterward only added fuel to the fire, solidifying his reputation as a bold and unforgettable figure in college football history.

The Buildup to the Game

Before we get to the flag planting, let's set the stage. The Oklahoma Sooners, led by their star quarterback Baker Mayfield, were entering the 2017 season with high expectations. Mayfield, already a Heisman Trophy contender, had a chip on his shoulder and something to prove. The Sooners had suffered a disappointing loss to Ohio State the previous year in Norman, and this game was seen as a chance for revenge and a statement of intent for the season. Ohio State, on the other hand, was a perennial national championship contender under coach Urban Meyer. They were known for their tough defense and powerful running game. The Buckeyes were looking to defend their home turf and assert their dominance over a fellow college football giant. The atmosphere leading up to the game was electric, with both teams and their fans eager for a hard-fought battle. Media outlets hyped the game for weeks, focusing on the quarterback battle between Mayfield and Ohio State’s J.T. Barrett, and the contrasting styles of the two teams. Everyone knew this game would have significant implications for the College Football Playoff race, adding even more pressure and excitement to the matchup. The game was nationally televised, drawing millions of viewers and further amplifying the stakes. Both teams understood the importance of this game, not just for their season, but for their national reputation. The buildup was intense, filled with anticipation, and set the stage for the now-iconic moment when Baker Mayfield planted the Oklahoma flag on Ohio State's field.

The Game Itself: A Sooner Triumph

The game itself lived up to the hype. Baker Mayfield was on fire, throwing for 386 yards and three touchdowns, leading the Sooners offense with precision and flair. The Oklahoma offensive line gave Mayfield the protection he needed, and the receivers made crucial catches to keep drives alive. On the other side of the ball, the Oklahoma defense stepped up, containing the Ohio State running game and putting pressure on quarterback J.T. Barrett. The Buckeyes struggled to find their rhythm, with uncharacteristic mistakes and missed opportunities. The Sooners took an early lead and never relinquished it, controlling the game's tempo and dictating the terms. Mayfield's performance was particularly noteworthy, as he made several throws under pressure and showcased his ability to extend plays with his legs. He demonstrated why he was considered one of the top quarterbacks in the nation. The Sooners' game plan was executed flawlessly, as they exploited weaknesses in the Ohio State defense and capitalized on turnovers. The Buckeyes, usually a disciplined team, committed costly penalties and failed to convert on key third downs. As the clock wound down, it became clear that the Sooners were going to pull off the upset. The Oklahoma sideline erupted in celebration as the final seconds ticked away, while the Ohio State players and fans looked on in disbelief. The 31-16 victory was a statement win for Oklahoma, announcing their arrival as a national championship contender. But it was what happened after the game that truly cemented this moment in college football lore.

The Flag Planting: A Moment of Infamy

After the final whistle, as the Oklahoma Sooners celebrated their victory, Baker Mayfield grabbed the Sooner Schooner flag and ran towards the center of the field. In a move that shocked and thrilled fans, he planted the flag right in the Block O at midfield, the sacred symbol of Ohio State. This act was immediately seen as disrespectful by many, particularly Ohio State fans, who viewed it as a violation of sportsmanship and a direct insult to their program. However, for Oklahoma fans, it was a symbol of triumph, a bold declaration of victory on enemy territory. The flag planting instantly went viral, sparking debates across social media and sports networks. Some praised Mayfield's audacity and competitive spirit, while others condemned his actions as arrogant and unsportsmanlike. The incident became a defining moment of Mayfield's college career, solidifying his image as a fearless and unapologetic competitor. It also added another layer to the rivalry between Oklahoma and Ohio State, ensuring that this game would be remembered for years to come. The reaction to the flag planting was swift and widespread. Ohio State fans expressed their outrage and disappointment, while Oklahoma fans reveled in the moment. The media had a field day, dissecting the incident from every angle and fueling the controversy. Regardless of one's opinion on the matter, the flag planting was undeniably a memorable and impactful moment in college football history.

The Aftermath and Legacy

The immediate aftermath of the flag planting was intense. Baker Mayfield faced criticism from all sides, including condemnation from Ohio State's coaching staff and fans. He was accused of being disrespectful and lacking class. However, Mayfield stood by his actions, explaining that it was a spontaneous expression of his competitive spirit and love for his team. He later apologized for any offense caused, but maintained that he was caught up in the emotion of the moment. The Big 12 Conference publicly reprimanded Mayfield for his actions, but no further disciplinary action was taken. The incident served as a learning experience for Mayfield, who realized the impact of his actions and the responsibility that came with being a high-profile athlete. In the long term, the flag planting became a defining moment of Mayfield's college career. It solidified his reputation as a fearless and unapologetic competitor, someone who played with passion and swagger. It also added another layer to the rivalry between Oklahoma and Ohio State, ensuring that this game would be remembered for years to come. Mayfield went on to win the Heisman Trophy that year, further cementing his legacy as one of the greatest quarterbacks in Oklahoma history. The flag planting is now viewed by some as a symbol of Oklahoma's victory and Mayfield's unwavering confidence. It remains a controversial and memorable moment in college football history, sparking debate and discussion to this day. Whether you love it or hate it, the flag planting is an undeniable part of the Baker Mayfield story.

Baker Mayfield's Career Beyond College

After his standout college career, Baker Mayfield was the first overall pick in the 2018 NFL Draft, selected by the Cleveland Browns. He entered the NFL with high expectations, seen as the quarterback who could finally turn around the struggling Browns franchise. Mayfield had a promising rookie season, breaking the rookie record for touchdown passes and showing glimpses of his potential. However, his time in Cleveland was marked by inconsistency and challenges. While he had moments of brilliance, he also struggled with turnovers and leadership issues. The Browns made the playoffs in 2020, but Mayfield's performance in the postseason was underwhelming. After several seasons in Cleveland, Mayfield was traded to the Carolina Panthers in 2022. His tenure in Carolina was short-lived and unsuccessful, as he struggled to adapt to the team's offensive system and was eventually released. He was then signed by the Los Angeles Rams, where he had a brief but memorable stint, leading the team to an improbable victory after being with the team for only a few days. In 2023, Mayfield signed with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, where he has found renewed success. He led the Buccaneers to the playoffs and has shown signs of returning to his former Pro Bowl-caliber form. Throughout his NFL career, Mayfield has faced scrutiny and criticism, but he has also demonstrated resilience and determination. He continues to work hard and strive to improve, hoping to establish himself as a franchise quarterback and achieve long-term success in the NFL. His journey from college star to NFL veteran has been filled with ups and downs, but his competitive spirit and passion for the game remain unwavering.

So, to recap, Baker Mayfield planted the flag after the Oklahoma Sooners defeated the Ohio State Buckeyes on September 9, 2017. What a moment, right? Whether you loved it or hated it, you gotta admit, it was unforgettable! This game and the aftermath solidified Mayfield's image as a bold and unforgettable figure in college football history.