Ohio State vs. Michigan: A Rivalry Renewed in “The Game”

This weekend, the stage is set for one of the most iconic rivalries in college football history — Michigan vs. Ohio State. Known simply as “The Game,” this year’s clash at Ohio Stadium in Columbus carries a familiar intensity, though the stakes are uniquely different from recent years.

For Michigan, the 2024 season has been filled with disappointment. A record of 6-5 (4-4 in the Big Ten) means the Wolverines are out of contention for a Big Ten title or a spot in the College Football Playoff (CFP). Yet, a win over their archrival could salvage pride and bring a triumphant end to a lacklustre season. Meanwhile, for Ohio State, the stakes couldn’t be higher. The second-ranked Buckeyes (10-1, 7-1 in the Big Ten) are vying for a spot in the Big Ten Championship Game and a shot at the CFP.

Here’s a closer look at the game, the teams, and what’s on the line.

Fast Facts

• Matchup: Michigan (6-5, 4-4 Big Ten) vs. No. 2 Ohio State (10-1, 7-1 Big Ten)
• Kickoff: Noon, Saturday
• Venue: Ohio Stadium, Columbus, Ohio
• TV/Radio: Fox; WXYT-FM (97.1), WTKA-AM (1050)
• Line: Ohio State favoured by 20½ points

Michigan: Playing for Pride

This season has been a far cry from the national championship-winning heights of recent years for Michigan. The team has struggled to find consistency on offence, ranking near the bottom nationally in several key metrics:

• Scoring offence: 107th in the nation (23.1 points per game)
• Passing yards: 127th (140.1 yards per game)
• Total offense: 128th (299.7 yards per game)

The Wolverines’ success hinges on their run game, which showed signs of life last week against Northwestern with 201 rushing yards and five touchdowns. However, moving the ball against Ohio State’s top-ranked defence will be much taller. Injuries batter Michigan’s offensive line, and quarterback Davis Warren will need to step up in a game where the margin for error is slim.

Key players like tight end Colston Loveland and wide receiver Semaj Morgan are listed as questionable, further complicating Michigan’s offensive woes. With the Buckeyes boasting one of the most talented defences in college football, Michigan’s offence must find a way to stay on the field and convert key third downs to have a shot.

Ohio State: Eyes on the Big Prize

For Ohio State, the mission is clear:

• Win “The Game.”
• Secure a spot in the Big Ten Championship.
• Keep their CFP hopes alive.

The Buckeyes have had a stellar season, propelled by a balanced offence and a dominant defence.

On offence, quarterback Will Howard has been steady, completing 74% of his passes for 2,685 yards, 33 total touchdowns, and just six interceptions. The Buckeyes’ rushing attack, led by TreVeyon Henderson and Quinshon Judkins, has been equally effective, combining over 1,400 yards and 14 touchdowns. Ohio State also boasts an elite receiving corps headlined by true freshman Jeremiah Smith, who has 899 receiving yards and nine touchdowns this season.

Defensively, Ohio State is anchored by stars like defensive lineman JT Tuimoloau and linebacker Cody Simon, with safety Caleb Downs emerging as one of the nation’s best. The Buckeyes rank first in the country in total defence, allowing just 249.3 yards per game, and they’ve been particularly stingy against the run.

With Michigan likely to rely heavily on its ground game, Ohio State’s ability to shut down the run will be critical. For head coach Ryan Day, this game is more than just another rivalry; it’s a must-win to cement his legacy and silence critics after losing to Michigan three straight times.

Keys to the Game

What Ohio State Needs to Do

1. Stop Michigan’s Run Game: The Wolverines’ offence is built around the run, and Ohio State’s defensive front will need to dominate the line of scrimmage. Linebacker Cody Simon will be crucial in filling gaps and preventing Michigan from gaining momentum.
2. Pressure Davis Warren: Michigan’s passing game is among the worst in the nation, but Ohio State can’t afford to give Warren time to find his rhythm. Disrupting his timing with consistent pressure will force the Wolverines into mistakes.
3. Control the Tempo: On offence, the Buckeyes must stay ahead of the sticks and avoid third-and-long situations. Quick passes, a strong running game, and minimizing turnovers will keep the Wolverines’ defence on its heels.

What Michigan Needs to Do

1. Win the Trenches: Michigan’s defensive line, led by edge rusher Josaiah Stewart. Must exploit weaknesses in Ohio State’s offensive line to disrupt the Buckeyes’ balanced attack.
2. Create Third-and-Manageable Situations: Michigan’s best chance lies in keeping third downs short and manageable. This starts with gaining positive yards on first and second down through the run game and short passes.
3. Force Turnovers: The Wolverines’ defence must play aggressively. Looking for opportunities to strip the ball or intercept passes to give their struggling offence short fields.

Players to Watch

Ohio State

• Jeremiah Smith (WR): The freshman phenom is a game-changer and could be the key to unlocking Michigan’s defence.
• Will Howard (QB): Howard’s ability to handle Michigan’s pressure and make smart decisions will dictate Ohio State’s offensive success.
• Cody Simon (LB): Simon has been a standout in the run game. And will be vital in shutting down Michigan’s rushing attack.

Michigan

• Josiah Stewart (Edge): Stewart must channel his inner Aidan Hutchinson and wreak havoc in Ohio State’s backfield.
• Tyler Morris (WR): With injuries to key receivers, Morris must step up and be a reliable target for Warren.
• Jyaire Hill (CB): With Michigan’s top cornerback, Will Johnson, questionable. Hill will face the daunting task of covering Ohio State’s dynamic receivers.

Predictions

Most experts agree that Ohio State is the heavy favourite in this game. Michigan’s offence has been inconsistent all season, and its reliance on the run directly affects the Buckeyes’ defensive strengths. Ohio State, on the other hand, has the firepower and depth to control the game on both sides of the ball.

• Teague Robinson’s Prediction: Ohio State 31, Michigan 10
• Tony Garcia’s Prediction: Ohio State 34, Michigan 13

While Michigan’s defence may keep the game close in the first half. Ohio State’s talent and depth should prove too much for the Wolverines to handle.

The Legacy of “The Game”

“The Game” isn’t just another football rivalry; it’s a cultural phenomenon that captures the spirit of college football. This year’s matchup represents a chance to play spoiler and restore some pride for Michigan. It’s an opportunity for Ohio State to reclaim dominance and continue its march toward a national championship.

As the clock ticks down to Saturday’s noon kickoff. Fans on both sides will be holding their breath, knowing that the outcome will shape the rest of the season. The legacies of players and coaches alike. One thing is certain: when Michigan and Ohio State take the field, the stakes are always monumental.