During Ohio State's eventual 31-7 win against Northwestern, one play in particular had Buckeye fans outraged on social media.
During Jeremiah Smith's 68-yard catch in run in the third quarter of the victory, Northwestern defensive back Robert Fitzgerald tackled Smith by the legs and appeared to use his weight to twist his ankle while defensive back Damon Walters assisted in tackling Smith.
#6 Robert Fitzgerald purposely twisting and pulling Jeremiah Smiths leg after the play. Dirty play. pic.twitter.com/ZiBrwqesHz
— Buckeye Realm (@BuckeyeRealm_) November 16, 2024
Smith hobbled off the field following the play, but later returned to the contest. He finished the day with four catches for 100 receiving yards.
As you might expect, OSU fans were less than pleased with the tackle from Fitzgerald and proceeded to voice their displeasure with him on social media. Fitzgerald eventually deleted his X account following the backlash.
I hope the Big Ten reviews that play of the Northwestern kid twisting Jeremiah Smiths ankle and suspends him!
— Mekka Don (@MekkaDonMusic) November 16, 2024
If Ryan Day doesnt send the B1G film of Northwesterns Robert Fitzgerald #6 cranking Smiths ankle after the tackle, hes not doing his job. Theres no dirtier play in football than trying to injure a player after the whistle. should be suspended by the league. #inexcusable
— Phil my Buckeyes (@PhilGoBucks) November 16, 2024
Northwestern defenders after they bring down Jeremiah Smith when he smokes em for 68-yards. pic.twitter.com/iuZavKzR9d
— Phillip Riggs (@phillipriggs85) November 16, 2024
Robert Fitzgerald. You are cancelled pal. Scumbag activity. pic.twitter.com/GOokvZI0DI
— Matt Tufano (@MattTufano) November 16, 2024
Robert Fitzgerald is one dirty ass mf. #GoBucks pic.twitter.com/2c25EKFlNh
— Brady Hamilton (@BradyH_216) November 16, 2024
Hey @NUFBFamily We are still waiting for your comment on Robert Fitzgerald attempting to purposely hurt another player.
— NCScarlet&Gray (@rswigert22) November 17, 2024
