1976 Rose Bowl - Game Summary

Game Summary

Both teams wore their home uniforms, Ohio State in scarlet jerseys, and UCLA in powderkeg blue jerseys. The weather was clear and 60 degrees.

In the game itself, Ohio State dominated the first half but could only muster the 3 points that it got on its opening possession. UCLA did not even pick up a first down until late in the 2nd quarter, but a couple of Ohio State turnovers and a key stop on 4th and 1 by the Bruin defense kept them in the game.

The second half saw UCLA open up its offense, utilizing play action and passing on first down. This helped open up their veer option rushing attack, and on their first possession of the 3rd quarter, UCLA marched to a tying field goal. After stopping Ohio State, UCLA then marched for a touchdown and a 9-3 lead (the extra point was missed). After stopping the Buckeyes again, the Bruins struck for the big play, a 67 yard touchdown pass from John Sciarra to speedy flanker Wally Henry. Suddenly the 15½ point underdog Bruins were up 16-3. Ohio State, which inexplicably began passing the ball with regularity, returned to its dominating ground attack and scored early in the 4th quarter to cut UCLA's lead to 16-10. Ohio State got the ball right back, but again tried to resume an air attack. Quarterback Cornelius Greene was intercepted by Pat Schmidt, and on the ensuing possession with just under 5 minutes to play, running back Wendell Tyler took an option pitchout, sped up the sideline, cut back at the perfect instant, and held the ball aloft as he crossed the goal line on a 54 yard run to clinch the game, 23-10. Another Greene interception killed any chance of a Buckeye last gasp comeback attempt. Woody Hayes then trudged across the field to congratulate Vermeil before the game was over.