Columbus, Ohio -- Ohio University has apologized to Ohio State and its fans after the school's Bobcat mascot tackled the Brutus Buckeye mascot, touching off an impromptu wrestling match before Saturday's game at Ohio Stadium.

In addition, the student who was dressed in the Bobcat costume has been banned from any further affiliation with Ohio athletics.

Rufus Bobcat first went after Brutus as the OSU mascot led the Buckeyes onto the field for the game.

Moments later, Rufus climbed on the back of Ohio State's mascot and rode him to the ground. The two then tussled in the end zone.