It’s time for The Game – Ohio State vs. Michigan. Ancient foes battling for bragging rights. College football’s most heated rivalry game. Need I say more?
In terms of intrigue, it helps that these two programs have won the last two national titles. For the top-ranked Buckeyes, this is a chance to go undefeated ahead of the Big Ten championship game. However, a road trip to Ann Arbor will be OSU’s biggest test of the season. #15 Michigan hasn’t been perfect, but an upset of their biggest rival could secure a College Football Playoff spot.
Who has the edge going into Saturday’s grudge match? Ohio State enters this contest as 9.5-point favorites (-112) over Michigan, with the over/under set at 43.5 points on DraftKings Sportsbook.
Ohio State vs. Michigan prediction, preview
Despite their national title, the Buckeyes stumbled at times that season. That included a dismal 13-10 loss at home, the fourth straight defeat against Michigan. The game infuriated Ohio State fans, many of whom petitioned the athletic department to fire head coach Ryan Day. Regardless, the vibes are much better right now for undefeated OSU. Still, another disappointment vs. the Wolverines would change that in a hurry.
It’s a much different roster for Ohio State, including under center. Quarterback Julian Sayin has blossomed into a Heisman candidate. Through 11 games, the sophomore has thrown for 2,832 yards and 27 touchdowns while coughing up just four interceptions. That includes an FBS-leading 79% completion percentage and 185.4 quarterback rating. Granted, throwing the ball is much easier when you have weapons such as Jeremiah Smith and Carnell Tate on the outside. In addition, running back Bo Jackson has churned out 835 rushing yards and five touchdowns. With that being said, both Smith and Tate missed last weekend’s game vs. Rutgers due to injury. The duo’s health will be something to monitor before kickoff.
It’ll be strength on strength when OSU possesses the ball. Michigan wields a formidable defense, headlined by a tenacious front seven. Names such as Derrick Moore and Jaishawn Barham are capable of destroying opposing offensive linemen. As a unit, UM’s defense ranks inside the conference’s top five schools in sacks (28.0), tackles for loss (68.0) and interceptions (12). Through six games played at home, the Wolverines have yet to give up 300 yards against any opponent.
However, Michigan isn’t the only school that excels on defense. Ohio State has several standouts on that side of the ball, including star safety Caleb Downs. Teams are averaging just 126.6 passing yards per game vs. the Buckeyes. That number is made more impressive considering most of OSU’s opponents have operated from behind in obvious pass-first situations. The Wolverines aren’t the most explosive offense, instead opting for a run-first approach. Quarterback Bryce Underwood is a true dual-threat, picking up 322 rushing yards and five touchdowns. He’s joined by running back Jordan Marshall, who has gained 953 yards from scrimmage and ten total TDs.
Ohio State vs. Michigan pick, best bet
The Buckeyes are a true juggernaut, capable of generating big plays on offense and limiting them on defense. In terms of talent, a spread of nearly ten points is justifiable. Still, the memory of recent seasons looms large heading into this matchup. Michigan’s strong run game could lend itself to an extended time of possession, an ideal way to keep things close. I’m expecting Ohio State to exorcise its demons and earn a win on Saturday. However, the pesky Wolverines will hang around long enough to cover.
