When the Michigan Wolverines (6-5, 4-4 Big Ten) visit the No. 2 Ohio State Buckeyes (10-1, 7-1) on Saturday for the 120th edition of “The Game”, revenge will be on the minds of the Buckeyes. Ohio State has lost three straight in the series, with each loss keeping them out of the Big Ten championship game. But with the Buckeyes entering as the second-ranked team in the nation and national title favorites, they are poised to end Michigan’s streak.
Defensive Dominance Expected
While there may be less on the line this year with Michigan already bowl eligible at 6-5 and Ohio State in playoff position, the intensity of this rivalry hasn’t diminished. And it’s the defenses of both teams that are expected to steal the show on Saturday in a classic Big Ten slugfest.
Ohio State defensive coordinator Jim Knowles has been confounding offenses all season with creative blitz packages and simulated pressures out of a 3-2-6 scheme. The Buckeye defense smothered Indiana in their last game, allowing just 153 total yards.
Michigan’s defensive front has been equally disruptive. The Wolverines boast the highest-graded pass rush in the country according to PFF. They overwhelmed Indiana, pressuring the quarterback on a staggering 62% of dropbacks en route to 4 sacks and 8 TFLs.
Key Defenders to Watch
- Cody Simon, Ohio State LB: 2.5 sacks, 10 tackles, 1 forced fumble last game
- Jaishawn Barham, Michigan LB: Constant backfield presence
- TJ Guy, Michigan DL: Teamed with Barham for 3 sacks, 4.5 TFLs vs Indiana
Both defenses excel at eliminating explosive plays and stifling scoring opportunities. Ohio State ranks 6th in opponent yards per completion and leads the nation in touchdowns allowed (13) and red zone touchdowns allowed (4).
Battle in the Trenches
With NFL-caliber talent across both defensive fronts, whichever team establishes the line of scrimmage will have the upper hand. As one Big Ten coach noted:
The game will be won or lost up front. These are two of the most talented and disruptive D-lines in the country. If either team can consistently protect their quarterback, they’ll have a huge advantage.
Buckeyes Favored at Home
Ohio State enters the game as hefty 21-point favorites, tied for the second-largest spread in this rivalry since 1978. The Buckeyes are also riding a 13-game home winning streak and are 9-4 ATS at The Horseshoe over the last two seasons.
However, Michigan has covered the spread in each of the last three meetings and will look to play spoiler once again as heavy underdogs. Only two other defending national champions have been 20+ point underdogs the following season since 1978.
Rivalry Renewed
Regardless of the odds, records, and rankings, this rivalry always delivers hard-hitting, passionate football. With bragging rights and legacy-defining moments on the line, expect maximum intensity from the opening kickoff.
As legendary Ohio State coach Woody Hayes famously said:
Of course I hate to lose to Michigan. I hate to lose to anybody. But losing to Michigan is the worst.
Prediction
In a game likely to be defined by defense, one or two critical plays could make all the difference. I believe the Buckeyes’ defensive talent advantage, combined with home field, will be just enough to snap the losing streak in another classic.
Prediction: Ohio State 20, Michigan 13
