Ryan Day’s approach to the Ohio State Buckeyes reveals just how deep the Ohio State-Michigan rivalry runs. It's not just about preparing for the next opponent; it’s about keeping tabs on the Wolverines, “That Team Up North,” as he calls them. This speaks volumes about the intensity and history embedded in this rivalry.
In the heart of the Woody Hayes Athletic Center, a clock ticks down the moments to the next collision with Michigan. Once an edition of “The Game” concludes, that clock reboots, beginning its countdown anew. It’s a testament to how ingrained the Ohio State-Michigan showdown is within the Buckeyes’ culture.
The aftermath of last November's tightly contested 13-10 loss to Michigan in Ohio Stadium laid bare the frustrations within the Buckeye ranks. Tempers flared on the field, and fans turned to social media to voice their disappointment.
Yet, rather than marking the end of their aspirations, it ignited a drive within the Buckeyes that propelled them to capture four straight College Football Playoff victories and clinch the National Championship. It’s hard not to ponder: is triumph over Michigan or a national title sweeter?
College football thrives on rivalries, and none capture that passion quite like Ohio State versus Michigan. Leading up to “The Game,” Ohio State University is transformed, with every “M” on campus undergoing an ‘X’ treatment, symbolizing the heightened stakes and fervor surrounding this longstanding feud.
Kirk Herbstreit echoes this sentiment in his autobiography “Out of the Pocket,” recalling that the Ohio State-Michigan game was a solemn affair in his household, one not taken lightly.
With the advent of the 12-team College Football Playoff era, a defeat to Michigan doesn’t spell doom for a national title hope. Losses to Michigan in 2021 and 2023 indeed dashed Ohio State’s playoff dreams when only four teams could advance.
But those days have evolved. Last November’s defeat didn’t eliminate Ohio State from contention.
Fans’ tempers flared even as they prepared for the playoff opener against Tennessee. But, as the Buckeyes dismantled the Volunteers, their eyes turned again toward the ultimate prize—a national championship.
For Buckeye Nation, the sting of losing to Michigan began to fade as championship aspirations sharpened. It begs the question: Is the pursuit of overcoming Michigan as critical as seizing a national title? The joy of defeating a rival is undeniable, but for a powerhouse like Ohio State, the pinnacle should be a national championship.
This isn’t to diminish the gravity of besting Michigan. It holds monumental significance for the Buckeyes and their faithful. Yet, particularly under the expanded playoff format, it becomes one of many priorities.
Traditions may wane amid the ever-changing college football landscape, yet “The Game” remains a cornerstone for Ohio State. However, the path to a national championship—even in seasons where Michigan bests them—remains a realistic objective.
As exemplified this past season, an upset by Michigan is no longer an insurmountable barrier to achieving the sport’s highest honor. It invites a reflection on priorities for the Buckeyes, and what the ultimate victory truly means.
