Ohio State Arrives in Ann Arbor With a Chance to Reclaim The Game

(Per Ohio State Athletics)

Ohio State heads into The Game unbeaten at 11–0, ranked No. 1 nationally and carrying the weight of a rivalry that has turned against them in recent years. Four straight losses to Michigan have rewritten the narrative around the program. Saturday at noon on FOX, the Buckeyes finally get that chance.

The forecast fits the rivalry. Temperatures are expected to hover right around thirty degrees at kickoff, with snow possible during the game. Cold games usually favor the more physical team, the deeper team and the defense that can control the line of scrimmage. Ohio State believes it checks all three boxes.

“This is the kind of game you spend the whole year preparing for,” head coach Ryan Day said this week. “Our guys understand what it means.”

Michigan’s recent run

Michigan has won four straight in the rivalry, including last season’s 13–10 defensive battle in Columbus. Over that stretch the Wolverines’ identity has centered on physicality, efficient quarterback play and late-season toughness. Even with a younger roster this year, the confidence built from those wins still matters.

Why Ohio State enters as the stronger team

This Ohio State team is built around its defense, which has been the most dominant unit in college football. The Buckeyes allow fewer than ten points per game and barely over two hundred total yards. They suffocate drives before they start, force long-yardage situations and take away explosive plays. Their defensive front has been consistent all season, and the secondary has given up almost nothing deep.

On offense, freshman quarterback Julian Sayin has steadily grown into the role. He protects the ball, distributes it efficiently and has shown poise against high-level defenses. The run game behind Bo Jackson has taken a big step forward, including a breakout performance against Rutgers where Ohio State leaned heavily on the ground and controlled the game from start to finish.

The health of the receiving corps remains important. Even with injuries to top wideouts, the Buckeyes found reliable production from tight end Max Klare last week. If even one of their primary receivers is back to near full strength, the passing attack becomes significantly more versatile.

Michigan’s chances hinge on Underwood and health

Michigan will rely heavily on Underwood, the true freshman quarterback who has shown flashes both encouraging and concerning. Film study highlights his talent and play-making ability, but also his inconsistent decision-making under pressure and growing pains typical of a young starter. 

The Wolverines want the game on their terms run the ball, shorten possessions, lean on play action and protect their quarterback. Running back Jordan Marshall leads the ground attack, but the injury list and depth questions are real.

Key factors

Line of scrimmage. Ohio State’s defensive front has dominated all season. Michigan must win some early-down battles or Underwood will be stuck in long-yardage situations against a defense that thrives in those scenarios.

Turnovers. Cold games are dangerous for both teams. A tipped ball or a mis-timed exchange could flip momentum instantly. The first turnover inside either team’s own territory might be the difference.

Handling the moment. Ohio State has played with purpose all year. Michigan is at home, but it’s a younger team in several key spots. The pressure will be heavy for both sidelines

Prediction

Ohio State brings the better defense, more depth, cleaner health and the more complete identity into Saturday. Michigan will compete and ride the energy of the Big House, but the combination of injuries and Ohio State’s defensive consistency may be too much to overcome.

Prediction: Ohio State 27, Michigan 10.