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Ohio state’s Kirk Herbstreit Orchestrates Rose Bowl Tie in 1997
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Thirty-three years ago, on January 1, 1997, Ohio State quarterback Kirkland “Kirk” Herbstreit engineered a remarkable game-tying drive with just four minutes remaining against the sixth-ranked Arizona State Sun Devils in the Rose Bowl.The drive culminated in a 25-yard field goal by kicker Matt Anderson, knotting the score at 17-17 and ultimately setting the stage for a thrilling finish.
The 1997 Rose Bowl was a highly anticipated matchup. Ohio State, coached by John Cooper, entered the game with a 10-1 record, while Arizona State, under coach Bruce Snyder, boasted an 11-0 mark. The game was notably critically important as it marked the return of the Buckeyes to Pasadena after a lengthy absence.
The Game’s Turning Point
Arizona State initially dominated the contest, building a 17-7 lead. However, Herbstreit, displaying poise and leadership, began to rally his team. We knew we had to stay calm and execute,
herbstreit later recalled. The game-tying drive showcased his ability to make crucial throws and manage the clock effectively.
Did You Know?
The 1997 Rose bowl was the first time Ohio State and Arizona State had met on the football field.
The game ultimately ended in a 20-17 victory for Ohio State in double overtime, securing the Buckeyes their first Rose Bowl win since 1969. Herbstreit’s performance cemented his legacy as one of Ohio State’s all-time great quarterbacks.
Key Game statistics
| Statistic | Ohio State | Arizona State |
|---|---|---|
| total Yards | 398 | 362 |
| Rushing yards | 148 | 181 |
| Passing Yards | 250 | 181 |
| Turnovers | 1 | 2 |
| Final Score | 20 | 17 |
Pro Tip: Reviewing game film from classic matchups like the 1997 Rose Bowl can provide valuable insights into offensive and defensive strategies.
Historical Context & Rose Bowl Tradition
The Rose Bowl, traditionally played on New Year’s Day, has long been considered one of college football’s most prestigious bowl games. Historically, there was an informal agreement between the Pac-8 (now Pac-12) and the Big Ten conferences regarding Rose Bowl appearances.In theory, the conferences would alternate selections, giving each a turn if the other had recently participated. Though, this custom wasn’t always strictly adhered to, as evidenced by the circumstances surrounding Ohio State’s invitation in 1997.
“The Rose Bowl is more than just a game; it’s a tradition.” - John Wooden, UCLA Basketball Coach.
The 1997 Rose Bowl stands as a testament to the enduring excitement and drama of college football.Herbstreit’s performance remains a defining moment in Ohio State history, and the game continues to be celebrated by fans of both teams.
What are your fondest memories of the 1997 Rose Bowl? Do you think the tradition of conference tie-ins for bowl games should be revived?
Frequently Asked Questions about the 1997 Rose Bowl
- Q: Who was the quarterback for ohio State in the 1997 Rose bowl?
A: Kirkland “Kirk” Herbstreit was the starting quarterback for ohio State.
