Family has always been a cornerstone of sports, often overshadowing fierce rivalries with love and support. This sentiment is beautifully illustrated through the phenomenon of split jerseys, where parents and fans proudly display allegiances to both sides. One of the most iconic examples came from Donna Kelce, who donned a split Eagles and Chiefs jersey to cheer for her sons during Super Bowl 57. But she’s far from alone; families like the St. Browns and the McCourtys have also embraced this unique way of celebrating their NFL connections.
Memorable Moments in Split Jerseys
The 2006 Fiesta Bowl introduced one of the most unforgettable split jerseys in college football history. Laura Hawk, then known as Laura Quinn, showcased her dual loyalties by wearing a custom jersey that represented both her brother, Notre Dame quarterback Brady Quinn, and her boyfriend at the time, Ohio State linebacker A.J. Hawk. The left side of her jersey proudly displayed Notre Dame’s colors, while the right side honored Ohio State, merging the two into a unique representation of family and rivalry.
This split jersey moment was not just a fashion statement; it became a symbol of the love and support that transcends team colors. As these two football powerhouses prepare to clash again in the national championship game, fans are reminded of that unforgettable scene from 17 years ago.
The Legacy of the Brady Quinn-A.J. Hawk Jersey
Laura’s split jersey was more than just a piece of clothing; it was a memory that captured the hearts of college football fans everywhere. After the Fiesta Bowl, the jersey was signed by both players, solidifying its place in sports memorabilia history. Fast forward to 2023, when A.J. Hawk decided to bring this cherished item back into the spotlight during a regular-season matchup between Ohio State and Notre Dame. He allowed his co-host, Pat McAfee, to wear the jersey on air, proving that the fabric of family ties remains strong even after all these years.
The jersey’s re-emergence sparked nostalgia among fans who remember the excitement of that game. It was a moment of unity that showcased how sports can bring people together, regardless of the teams they support.
Revisiting the 2006 Fiesta Bowl
Ohio State faced off against Notre Dame in the 2006 Fiesta Bowl, a game that ended with the Buckeyes claiming a 34-20 victory. The match was a thrilling showcase of talent, featuring standout performances from both teams. Ohio State’s Ted Ginn Jr. and Santonio Holmes each racked up over 120 receiving yards, while running back Antonio Pittman rushed for 136 yards and a touchdown.
Despite an early lead by Notre Dame, the Buckeyes quickly regained control, scoring three consecutive touchdowns. Brady Quinn, who finished fourth in Heisman Trophy voting that year, found himself outperformed by Ohio State’s Troy Smith, who completed 19 of 28 passes for 342 yards and two touchdowns. The game was a high-scoring affair, with Darius Walker scoring all three of Notre Dame’s touchdowns on the ground.
Who is A.J. Hawk’s wife?
A.J. Hawk’s wife, Laura, is not just any fan; she is the sister of former Notre Dame star Brady Quinn. The couple has been married since 2007 and has four children together. Their love story is intertwined with the fabric of college football history, especially considering the iconic split jersey moment from the Fiesta Bowl.
Before they tied the knot, Laura was approached by the same company that created a split Giants-Ravens jersey for Nelly ahead of the Super Bowl 35 halftime show. They wanted to know if she would be interested in a custom Quinn-Hawk jersey. Initially hesitant, Laura was convinced to wear the split jersey instead of simply cheering for her brother. By the end of the Fiesta Bowl, that decision had become a memorable part of college football lore.
Are A.J. Hawk and Brady Quinn still family?
The bond between A.J. Hawk and Brady Quinn has only strengthened since that fateful day in 2006. After marrying Laura, A.J. became officially linked to Brady, and their families have shared a unique connection ever since. Both players went on to have successful NFL careers, with Hawk being selected fifth overall by the Green Bay Packers in the 2006 NFL Draft and Quinn being picked 22nd overall by the Cleveland Browns in 2007.
This family connection adds a personal touch to the rivalry between Ohio State and Notre Dame, making their future matchups even more intriguing. Fans eagerly anticipate seeing how this family dynamic plays out on the field.
Bringing It All Together
The story of the split jersey worn by Laura Hawk is a beautiful reminder of how family ties can transcend the competitive nature of sports. It encapsulates the spirit of college football, where rivalries can coexist with love and support. As we look forward to future matchups between Ohio State and Notre Dame, we can’t help but remember the unique moments that have defined this rivalry, including the unforgettable split jersey that brought two families together.
In the world of college football, it’s these stories that resonate with fans and remind us that, at the end of the day, it’s about more than just the game. It’s about family, love, and the memories we create along the way.
