The excitement is palpable as the College Football Playoff reaches its thrilling climax with a National Championship Game featuring the storied programs of Notre Dame and Ohio State. For former Irish quarterback Brady Quinn, his allegiance to Notre Dame is unwavering. Yet, there’s an intriguing twist in the family dynamics that might complicate things on game day.
Family Ties and Rivalries
Brady Quinn’s sister, Laura Quinn Hawk, is married to A.J. Hawk, a former linebacker for Ohio State. This connection goes back years, and it adds a unique layer to the rivalry. When A.J. and Brady faced off in the 2006 Fiesta Bowl, Laura famously donned a split jersey, showcasing her support for both sides. Talk about being caught in the middle!
Anticipation for the Big Game
As the championship game approaches, Laura Quinn Hawk has another chance to sport that iconic half-and-half jersey. With the stakes so high, Brady Quinn couldn’t resist joking about his sister’s potential wardrobe choice during a recent appearance on Always College Football. “I’m more curious to see what my sister does with the half jersey,” he quipped. “If she brings it back out or if it makes some sort of appearance again before this game.”
Custom Jerseys and Good-Natured Jokes
The banter continued when host Greg McElroy chimed in, suggesting that Quinn could get a custom jersey made—an Ohio State jersey featuring his own number 10 and last name. What a creative twist! But Brady was quick to dismiss that idea, saying, “He’s [A.J. Hawk] way too cheap. He’s not doing that. Trust me, he’s not putting in that much effort on that.”
A Shared History
Brady Quinn and A.J. Hawk share a rich history, both hailing from Ohio. Brady is from Dublin, while A.J. comes from Centerville. Their paths crossed not only in college football but also in life, as A.J. has been married to Laura since 2007—just a year after his Buckeyes triumphed over Quinn’s Irish in that memorable Fiesta Bowl.
Coaching Connections
Adding another layer of intrigue, the current head coach of Notre Dame, Marcus Freeman, played linebacker for Ohio State and was a teammate of A.J. Hawk. Freeman was part of the Buckeyes team that defeated the Irish in that same Fiesta Bowl. It’s a small world, indeed, where past rivalries and friendships intertwine.
Rivalry Stats
Despite their geographic proximity, Ohio State and Notre Dame have a surprisingly limited history on the football field. The two powerhouses have only met eight times, with Ohio State leading the series 6-2. Notably, they have won their last six encounters. Their most recent matchups occurred in 2022 and 2023, under the guidance of coaches Marcus Freeman and Ryan Day.
The National Championship Showdown
As the countdown to the National Championship Game continues, anticipation builds. Notre Dame and Ohio State are set to clash once again, this time with the ultimate prize on the line. Mark your calendars for Monday, January 20th, at 7:30 p.m. EST. Will Brady Quinn’s loyalty shine through, or will family ties sway the outcome? Only time will tell.
The Heart of College Football
In the world of college football, stories like these make the game even more vibrant. The blend of rivalry, family, and history adds depth to the competition. Fans are not just rooting for their teams; they are invested in the narratives that unfold on the field. The clash between Notre Dame and Ohio State is more than just a game; it’s a celebration of tradition, passion, and the love of football.
As we gear up for this monumental matchup, one thing is clear: college football is about more than just wins and losses. It’s about the connections we make, the memories we cherish, and the excitement that brings us together. So, whether you’re wearing your Notre Dame colors or cheering for Ohio State, get ready for a night filled with unforgettable moments!
