Following a National Championship victory in 2024, Ohio State could be rolling with a depleted roster in 2025.
The Michigan–Ohio State football rivalry, often referred to as “The Game,” is one of the most storied and intense matchups in college football history. As of 2024, Michigan leads the series with 62 wins to Ohio State’s 51, along with six ties. This rivalry has been a defining feature of both programs, often influencing conference titles and national championship aspirations.
In the 2024 season, the Michigan Wolverines faced significant challenges. Under the leadership of head coach Sherrone Moore, they concluded the regular season with a 7-5 record. Despite the mixed results, the Wolverines secured a notable 13-10 victory over the then-No. 2 ranked Ohio State Buckeyes on November 30, 2024, marking their fourth consecutive win in the series.
This victory was particularly significant for Michigan fans, as evidenced by an SB Nation Reacts survey where 84% of respondents considered the season a success primarily due to the win over Ohio State. The game itself was a defensive battle, with Michigan’s defense limiting Ohio State’s potent offense to just 10 points and 77 rushing yards. A pivotal moment came when Dominic Zvada kicked a 21-yard field goal with 45 seconds remaining, sealing the win for the Wolverines.
For the Buckeyes, the 2024 season was a mix of highs and lows. Despite the setback against Michigan, Ohio State showcased resilience by advancing through the expanded College Football Playoff. They secured victories against formidable opponents, culminating in a national championship win. This achievement was particularly noteworthy as they clinched the title without securing the Big Ten Championship, a testament to their strength and determination during the postseason.
The contrasting narratives of the 2023 Michigan Wolverines and the 2024 Ohio State Buckeyes have sparked debates among fans and analysts. A recent SB Nation Reacts survey highlighted that 71% of fans favored the 2023 Michigan team over the 2024 Ohio State squad. Factors influencing this perception include Michigan’s undefeated 15-0 record in 2023, their Big Ten Championship win, and a notable victory over Ohio State that season. In contrast, while Ohio State’s 2024 national championship run was impressive, their 14-2 record and absence of a Big Ten title may have influenced opinions.
The intense focus on the Michigan rivalry has not gone unnoticed. Former Alabama coach Nick Saban commented on Ohio State fans’ preoccupation with the Michigan loss, suggesting that they might benefit from shifting their focus, especially given the team’s national championship prospects.
Looking ahead, the 2025 season promises to add another chapter to this storied rivalry. The next meeting between the two teams is scheduled for November 29, 2025, in Ann Arbor. Both programs will be eager to assert their dominance, with Ohio State aiming to break Michigan’s current winning streak in the series.
In conclusion, while the 2024 season had its share of challenges for both teams, Ohio State’s national championship victory underscores their resilience and ability to perform under pressure. As the Buckeyes prepare for the 2025 season, the lessons learned from their recent experiences, particularly in high-stakes games against rivals like Michigan, will undoubtedly shape their approach and aspirations.
