Ohio State Ends Michigan Streak, Stays Perfect: Breaking Down the Buckeyes' Statement Win
For Ohio State, every season boils down to three goals: beat Michigan, win the Big Ten, and chase a national title. Last year, they managed to check off the biggest box-but not all three.
This time around, they're still in the hunt for the full sweep. And after Saturday’s 27-9 win over Michigan, the Buckeyes look like a team that’s locked in on completing the mission.
Not only did this win snap a four-game skid to their biggest rival, it punched Ohio State’s ticket to the Big Ten Championship Game and capped off a perfect regular season. That’s 12-0 for the first time since 2019, and their first undefeated regular season since 2020. This wasn’t just a win-it was a statement.
Let’s dive into how the Buckeyes got it done, starting with an offense that rebounded in a big way after a rocky start.
Offense: A Slow Burn That Caught Fire
Grade: A-
It wasn’t pretty early. Ohio State opened the game with a turnover on its first drive and came up empty on its second, despite reaching Michigan’s one-yard line. For a moment, it looked like the pressure of The Game might be getting to them.
But then the Buckeyes flipped the switch.
They scored on four of their next five possessions, racking up 419 total yards and putting together the kind of balanced, efficient attack that had been missing in some of their recent rivalry losses. Once they found their rhythm, Michigan simply couldn’t keep pace.
Quarterback Julian Sayin had a shaky start-his first two passes included a rare, ill-advised interception that raised some early concern. But the freshman settled in fast.
After that pick, Sayin completed 19 of his next 24 passes, including stretches where he hit seven and six throws in a row. He finished with 233 yards and two touchdowns, showing poise and precision that belied his age.
Sayin’s bounce-back was more than just a nice stat line-it was a sign of growth. In a rivalry game where every mistake is magnified, he showed the kind of short memory and leadership that championship teams need under center.
Ohio State’s offensive line deserves credit too. After a shaky start in the red zone, they tightened things up in pass protection and opened up enough running lanes to keep Michigan honest. That balance helped keep the Wolverines off-balance for most of the game.
Defense: The Backbone of the Win
While the offense took a little time to find its footing, the defense came ready from the jump. Ohio State held Michigan to just nine points and kept the Wolverines out of the end zone entirely-a rare feat in a rivalry that usually sees fireworks on both sides.
The Buckeyes’ front seven controlled the line of scrimmage, limiting Michigan’s ground game and forcing them into uncomfortable passing situations. The secondary held up its end too, clamping down on big plays and keeping everything in front of them.
This wasn’t just a solid defensive outing-it was a tone-setting performance. In a game that has often turned into a physical slugfest, Ohio State brought the muscle and made sure Michigan felt it on every possession.
Coaching: Adjustments and Composure
In rivalry games, coaching matters more than ever. And credit goes to the Buckeyes' staff for keeping the team composed after the early miscues.
They didn’t panic after the first two drives. Instead, they leaned into the game plan, made smart adjustments, and trusted their players to execute.
That trust paid off.
The play-calling struck the right balance between aggression and control. And defensively, the game plan was airtight-designed to force Michigan to beat them with long drives instead of explosive plays. It worked to perfection.
What’s Next
With the win, Ohio State now turns its focus to the Big Ten Championship Game. The goals are all still on the table. They’ve taken down their biggest rival, they’re undefeated, and now they’re one win away from a conference title and a likely College Football Playoff berth.
The Buckeyes came into this season with a chip on their shoulder. Now, they’ve got momentum, confidence, and the kind of signature win that can define a season.
If Saturday was any indication, this team isn’t just chasing goals-they’re ready to finish the job.