Rivalry weekend in college football brought plenty of shocking upsets, but perhaps none was more surprising than No. 2 Ohio State falling to their archrival Michigan in a tense 13-10 defeat. This loss extends the Buckeyes’ losing streak to Michigan to four years, leaving Ohio State head coach Ryan Day with a disappointing 1-4 record against the Wolverines. The defeat stings even more considering Michigan entered the game as a heavy underdog. The Wolverines, coming off a National Championship in the 2023-24 season, had struggled this year but found a way to rise to the occasion when it mattered most.
Photo Cred: SI
For Ohio State, the game was defined by their inability to get things going offensively against a Michigan defense that was missing its star cornerback, Will Johnson. The Buckeyes’ offense, usually one of the most potent in the country, was stifled all game long. Quarterback Will Howard had a rough outing, completing just 19 of 33 passes for 175 yards, one touchdown, and two costly interceptions. The first interception came deep in Ohio State territory during the first half and set up Michigan with a short field, leading to a touchdown. The second interception occurred in the third quarter, deep in Michigan territory, stalling any momentum the Buckeyes had been trying to build.
Ohio State’s rushing attack also struggled to find any rhythm, finishing the game with only 77 yards on 26 carries. In contrast, Michigan dominated the ground game, rushing for 173 yards. At times, it seemed as though Ohio State was more focused on trying to out-physical Michigan rather than exploiting favorable matchups on the outside with one of the best receiving corps in the nation. The Buckeyes, known for their explosive passing attack, failed to make the necessary adjustments to take advantage of their offensive weapons. Instead, they got bogged down in a physical battle that played right into Michigan’s strengths.
Photo Cred: Buckeyes Wire
To make matters worse, Ohio State’s special teams also faltered in a game where every point counted. Kicker Jake Fielding missed two crucial field goals, one from 34 yards and another from 38 yards. Had either of these attempts been successful, they could have kept the Buckeyes within striking distance or even given them a lead in the low-scoring contest. Michigan, on the other hand, was perfect on their field goal attempts, converting kicks from 54 and 21 yards in the fourth quarter to take the lead, 13-10, a lead they would not relinquish. The contrast in special team’s play was yet another key factor in Michigan’s victory.
While Ohio State’s defense did everything, they could keep them in the game by forcing critical turnovers and making key stops, they were ultimately let down by their offense, which failed to complement their efforts. The Buckeyes’ defense was solid, but the lack of execution on offense left them unable to capitalize on those stops. Despite being one of the most talented teams in the country, Ohio State seemed unable to get out of its own way when facing their bitter rival.
This loss now has major implications for Ohio State’s season. Not only does it eliminate the Buckeyes from the Big Ten Championship game, but it also takes away their chance to secure a much-needed bye in the College Football Playoffs. While the Buckeyes are still likely to make the playoffs, this loss raises questions about whether they will be playing at home or on the road for the first round. The final College Football Playoff rankings, which will be revealed after this weekend’s Conference Championship games, will provide a clearer picture of Ohio State’s position in the playoffs.
Photo Cred: MLive
For now, Ohio State’s focus must shift to the playoffs, but the bitter taste of losing to Michigan once again will be difficult to shake. The Buckeyes will need to regroup and refocus, knowing that their playoff journey is still alive, but no longer as certain as it once seemed. The question remains: Can Ohio State overcome this emotional setback, or will their rivalry struggles continue to haunt them as they enter the postseason? The next few weeks will reveal just how resilient this team truly is.
