Ask the nation what the greatest rivalry in college football is and depending on what part of the country you’re in, you could get a couple different answers. But as you scour the country there is one answer you can find almost anywhere, and only one answer is known as “The Game.”
The No.9 Ohio State Buckeyes (9-2, 7-1 Big Ten) travel to Ann Arbor this Saturday to take on the Michigan Wolverines (8-3, 5-3 Big Ten).
This game means a lot to both teams but for two very different reasons.
Ohio State sits at No.9 in the nation and although they will be playing Wisconsin for a Big Ten championship in two weeks, they still have an outside chance of making the playoff by winning out and getting some help.
The Wolverines are out of any championship hunt, but the opportunity to play spoiler to Ohio State would ease the pain of this season and give them a positive to end on. It also would also restore some respectability to “The Game” as they have lost five straight to the Buckeyes and 12 out of the last 13 games.
“We haven’t beat these guys in a while, nobody on this team has a win against (Ohio State),” Michigan safety Tyree Kinnel said this week. “It starts to get old when you don’t win.”
Michigan coach Jim Harbaugh was brought in to bring respect back to the Michigan program, and although he has once again made them relevant, his 1-4 record against Michigan State and Ohio State looms over him. And coach Harbaugh is well aware of his record.
“The record is what the record is,” Harbaugh said. “Well aware of what the record is against Michigan State and Ohio State, we’re 1-4. The record [against] all other opponents is 23-3. We know what the records are.”
The best chance for Harbaugh to start to turn that record around may not even play. The Wolverines offense has started to show signs of life after making a switch to recently named starter Brandon Peters. Peters left last week’s game against Wisconsin due to a concussion. Reports say Peters is progressing and could be cleared in time for the game.
Even though Ohio State has its eyes set on a Big Ten and possibly National Championship they understand the importance of this game on its own. The week Ohio State plays the Wolverines no one utters the name “Michigan” and all “M’s” go missing in Columbus.
“The rivalry is not a one-week deal,” said coach Urban Meyer. “It’s in your blood and in your DNA.”
Senior quarterback JT Barrett will be playing his last game against Michigan and is looking forward to heading the Ann Arbor one last time.
“I don’t think it’s going to be pleasant,” Barrett said. “I’m pretty sure they’re going to hate me. You got to learn to love the hate. I like being hated sometimes. I don’t mind it. They hate us anyway.”
Ohio State center echoed Barrett’s sentiments when speaking about his leader.
“He’s a competitor. He’s one of the greatest competitors in college football right now,” Brice said. “Again, go ahead, bring on the hate. It is a rivalry.”
What: Ohio State Buckeyes vs. Michigan Wolverines When: Saturday November 25, 2017 at 12:00 ET Where: Michigan Stadium, Ann Arbor, Michigan Watch: FOX Spread: OSU -12 Over/Under: 50 Money Line: OSU -460, UM +385
The upsets started on Friday night, where both Clemson and Washington State went down to unranked teams. Clemson lost QB Kelly Bryant in the 2nd quarter and the Syracuse Orange played well out there and pulled off a huge upset. Clemson fell from the #1 spot in my top 10 ballot to #7, thanks to some other upsets along with giving them the benefit of the doubt due to Bryant's injury. Then, the Washington State Cougars were not only beat, but humiliated, by the Cal Golden Bears. Top 10 teams do get upset, it happens, but losing 37-3 to an unranked team is unforgivable and fell out of my top 10. The Cougars' rival, the Washington Huskies, also fell ill with the upset bug. The Huskies looked bad against the Arizona State Sun Devils and lost a sloppy game, 13-7. And just like their in-state rival, they also fell out of my top 10.
I still do not want to move Wisconsin from that 10 spot, it's not only that they haven't played a good team but they haven't blown a team out like other schools have been doing. If they were blowing the doors off these teams then I could start buying into them, but 33-24 against Northwestern, 38-17 against Nebraska and 17-9 against Purdue isn't doing much to sway my opinion.
For the 2nd week in a row, 2 new teams are in my top 10. Oklahoma makes an appearance again after a big win against rival Texas, stabilizing themselves after a rough couple of weeks. And I'm starting to buy Notre Dame, who makes an appearance at #9 this week. A 1 point loss to Georgia(who is ranked #3) is all that is separating them from currently being undefeated, they have convincingly won all of their other games and that includes a 38-18 road win at Michigan State.
Alabama takes back the #1 spot, where many felt they rightfully belonged in the 1st place.
HEISMAN WATCH
5. Lamar Jackson, QB, Louisville
4. Jonathan Taylor, RB, Wisconsin
3. Baker Mayfield, QB, Oklahoma
2. Bryce Love, RB, Stanford
1. Saquon Barkley, RB, Penn State
Right now, this seems like a 3 player race for the Heisman. Lamar Jackson's Heisman run is on life support now as it appears he won't be going back to back with trophy wins. And Jonathan Taylor has popped up on my Heisman watch list after his 2nd straight 200 yard performance. Wisconsin will hit the bulk of the schedule soon so his campaign will be defined by that stretch.
Baker Mayfield pops back up to 3 after a big game against Texas, also helping his campaign are the struggles of Lamar Jackson and Luke Falk last week. RB Bryce Love had yet another big game, rushing for 147 yards and 2 scores in a 49-7 win over Oregon. Penn State was off last weekend, but Barkley has Michigan this week followed by Ohio State, 2 huge games for him to stake his claim to the Heisman trophy.
WEEK 8 PREVIEW
#20 UCF at Navy - 3:30 PM
Week 8 doesn't have quite the slate of good games that we normally hope for, but this game is a nice appetizer before the 2 huge night games
Central Florida is not having any problems on offense or defense this season, averaging 50 points per game while only giving up just under 17 points per game. QB McKenzie Milton has been impressive this season, his 15 TD's and his 70% completion percentage currently has him as the 2nd highest rated QB in the nation as far as passing efficiency goes. The Golden Knights also add a balanced running attack to go along with their passing game, averaging 225 yards a game on the ground. Navy is looking to bounce back after their first loss of the season last week, a 30-27 loss to Memphis in a game where they turned the ball over 5 times.
Navy always offers some unique challenges, their triple option is tough to defend and the Midshipmen average just under 400 rushing yards per game. The key will be for UCF to get them out of their comfort zone and force them to pass, 3rd down and long situations and getting on the scoreboard early and building a lead will do it. Easier said than done though, QB Zach Abey already has over 1,000 rushing yards on the season and Navy will turn to him to keep the offense going and get a big win here.
PREDICTION: UCF 38-20
#19 Michigan at #2 Penn State - 7:30 PM
Saquon Barkley vs. the Michigan defense.
That's what this game comes down to, Barkley is a Heisman candidate that accounts for 38% of Penn State's offense. He is both their leading rusher and receiver and Penn State goes as he goes. Michigan though, doesn't allow many yards, especially on the ground, and they are possibly the best defense in the country. They only allow 85 rushing yards and 138 passing yards a game and the most points that they've given up in a game has been 20. Michigan will especially need the defense to show up due to their struggling offense, they will need to turn to the run game heavily in this game in order to score some points. If Barkley does break loose a bit though and Penn State has some success against the stingy Michigan defense, then Michigan will be put in a tough spot due to their issues at QB and it will be made into an even tougher game for them to win. The "white out" at Beaver Stadium will be in full effect as they have not forgotten the 49-10 loss that Michigan handed them last year, while Michigan looks to make a huge statement on the road and keep their sights set on a Big Ten championship.
PREDICTION: Michigan 24-23
#11 USC at #13 Notre Dame - 7:30 PM
A big rivalry here takes place Saturday night, with the USC Trojans heading to South Bend, IN to take on the Notre Dame Fighting Irish. On paper, this looks about as even as it gets, both teams are similar in points per game, points allowed per game, total yards for per game and total yards against per game. USC continues to escape games this season, as was the case last week as they defeated Utah, 28-27. They have turnover issues which is the cause of these close games, including a loss to Washington State, and they are facing a Notre Dame team that is good enough to where they can't afford to play a sloppy game. Notre Dame has won 4 straight since their 1 point loss to Georgia, and each game has not been a contest even. The Irish may not have a big passing game, only 7 passing touchdowns in 6 games, but their rushing attack(which includes QB Brandon Wimbush) has been getting it done. Wimbush and RB Josh Adams have combined for nearly 1,200 rushing yards and 13 TD's, this is something that USC needs to contain in order to pull off a big road win. If Notre Dame can keep their running game going though along with pressuring USC QB Sam Darnold and getting some turnovers then this will be a statement win for them.
PREDICTION: Notre Dame 30-27
The big "upset" over the week was Washington State defeating USC. The Trojans have been flirting with disaster all year basically and their issues with turning the ball over finally caught up to them. Of course, this was the week that I thought they would put it all together and really show how talented they are, but they continued their sloppy play and they did so against a team that was talented enough to take advantage of their mishaps. Hats off to Washington State for capitalizing on the moment and making a big statement, they jump into my top 10 now after that win.
Aside from that, the only real movement other than USC exiting the top 10 and those behind them moving up a spot was a flip flop of Oklahoma and Georgia. Georgia put it on Tennessee 41-0 and if you watch them, you can tell how good their skill position players are along with how tough that defense is and right now I can't leave them out of the top 4. Nothing against Oklahoma and we still have a lot of games left to be played, but Georgia has been impressive with knocking teams around so far and if season ended today then I can't leave them out of the playoffs.
Clemson once again shows that they are the #1 team in the country, a solid beat down of Virginia Tech at Lane Stadium further proves that this team is as good, if not better, than they were last season.
HEISMAN WATCH
5. Bryce Love, RB, Stanford
4. Luke Falk, QB, Washington State
3. Lamar Jackson, QB, Louisville
2. Baker Mayfield, QB, Oklahoma
1. Saquon Barkley, RB, Penn State
Saquon Barkley takes over the #1 spot as he once again took over the game for Penn State. The Iowa game last week seemed to be a turning point, where PSU is getting away from anything other than making sure Barkley touches the ball as often as possible and he started the game on Saturday against Indiana with a 98 yard punt return. His 56 yards rushing is a bit deceiving, he also had 51 yards receiving on 4 catches and the already mentioned 98 yard punt return, Penn State is finding ways to get him as many touches as possible and he is the reason why Penn State is currently undefeated and a playoff team.
Sam Darnold is officially out of the top 5 after yet another rough outing. USC had all the capability in the world to defeat Washington State but Darnold's poor QB play, topped off with a fumble to end the game, lost them the game. Replacing him is Stanford RB Bryce Love, who has been tearing it up this season and just had himself a 301 yard 3 TD game against Arizona State last Saturday. On the season, he's already over 1,000 yards rushing and the worst game he's had has been a 160 rushing yard performance.
WEEK 6 PREVIEW
#17 Louisville at #24 NC State - Thursday 8:00 PM
NC State started the season with some hype as the "sleeper" pick in the ACC, and that hype train was quickly derailed in week 1 after a 35-28 loss to South Carolina. Since then though, the Wolfpack have regrouped nicely and have won their last 4 games. With some hype around them coming back, it is now their chance to validate themselves as they welcome a tested and proven Louisville team. They'll need QB Ryan Finley to continue his mistake free play, having yet to throw an interception on the season, and will need to find a way to slow down Louisville's QB, Lamar Jackson. Jackson is the defending Heisman trophy winner and absolutely scorched the Wolfpack last season, putting up 4 first half touchdowns en route to a 54-13 win. NC State must find an answer for him, they'll need to slow him down big time and also be able to put up points on offense in order to pull the upset off.
PREDICTION: Louisville 48-24
#13 Miami at Florida State - 3:30 PM
This may not seem like a big game, but rivalry games are so tricky to predict that this may end up being a lot better than some people may think. Florida State has won the last 7 games against rival Miami, but that streak is very much in doubt. The Seminoles have been struggling ever since QB Deandre Francois went down with a season ending injury, losing to NC State then escaping with a win against Wake Forest. Miami comes in with a 3-0 record, as it seems Head Coach Mark Richt has this team thinking of a possible ACC Championship this season. Miami hopes to have starting RB Mark Walton healthy and available for this game, and this could really help out FSU if he is either unable to play or plays but is hampered by his ankle injury. The Hurricanes definitely have playmakers elsewhere though with the passing game of QB Malik Rosier and they are also getting back WR Ahmond Richard for this game as well. Florida State will need star safety Derwin James to be everywhere out there and on offense, the Seminoles have to get the running game going. Last year's contest came down to a blocked extra point, expect anything when these rivals meet up.
PREDICTION: Miami 23-20
#23 West Virginia at #8 TCU - 3:30 PM
The lone Saturday game of the week that features 2 ranked teams here, TCU looks to remain perfect as they host the West Virginia Mountaineers. TCU is coming off a huge win at Oklahoma State two weeks ago and after a bye week last weekend, looks to continue their momentum here. This game will be about the offenses, West Virginia has the 2nd ranked offense in the entire country and QB Will Grier and RB Justin Crawford look to balance it out and do what Oklahoma State was unable to, put up the necessary points against the Big 12's 2nd best defense. TCU will also rely on their QB-RB combo, with QB Kenny Hill and RB Darius Anderson leading the way for the Horned Frogs offense. If they play like they did against Oklahoma State then this will be extremely tough for West Virginia to pull off the upset. This game should have plenty of offense and do not be surprised if we see another road upset in the Big 12 here.
PREDICTION: West Virginia 44-37
Michigan State at #7 Michigan - 7:30 PM
Much like the Miami-Florida State game, this is also a rivalry which on paper seems to be a lopsided game. Michigan State is 3-1 this season, totaling their wins from a horrific 2016 season. QB Brian Lewerke seems to have a lot of upside and they'll need him to come up big against a tough Michigan defense in order to bring the Paul Bunyon Trophy back to East Lansing. The biggest issue for MSU this season has been their running game, Lewerke is also the leading rusher on the team even though he only has 248 yards total in 4 games and RB LJ Scott is averaging under 4 yards a carry. It won't get any easier to establish a run game for MSU, as they'll face a Michigan defense that's only allowing 69.3 yards a game(and that includes a rush heavy triple option Air Force team.) Michigan will be without QB Wilton Speight as John O'Korn will get the start, and he'll basically be asked to just manage the game and make some plays when available while the run game and defense will be tasked to win the game. For the first time ever, this rivalry will be played under the lights, and is the primetime game of the week.
The college football rankings are set to be announced this Sunday. Before then though, we have a weekend of conference championships, some of which could have a major impact on the final rankings and determine who is in or out.
Here, we will take a look at each potential playoff team and give the reasons why we should buy stock in them making the playoffs, along with why would should sell stock in them making the playoffs. There are more than a few teams that have cases to be made, even if they need a little help still, so let's examine them here.
1. Alabama
WHY TO BUY: Alabama is the only undefeated team left in all of the power 5 conferences, and it would take some of epic meltdown in the SEC title game in order for them to not make the playoffs. They don't have to just lose, but lose by an incredible amount along with having some key injuries that could shift the committee's opinion. There's no such thing as a guarantee, but Alabama making the playoffs regardless of the outcome in the SEC title game is as close to a guarantee as there is.
WHY TO SELL: At this point, if someone sells stock in Alabama being a playoff team, then they need to be investigated for insider trading. They must know that some investigation has been launched about Alabama playing with ineligible players this season so they are going to be forced to forfeit their wins and the committee won't want that black cloud in the playoffs. That's the type of scenario that people who sell stock would have to be hoping for, so just play it safe and don't sell.
2. Ohio State
WHY TO BUY: Ohio State is currently ranked #2 and has the best overall resume as far as strength of schedule, wins over top 25 teams and wins over top 10 teams are concerned. Even though they will not be playing for their conference championship, a drop from #2 to #5 seems highly unlikely. No team has ever made the playoffs without winning their conference so there's still some doubt, but it's a pretty safe bet here that the Buckeyes will be in the playoffs.
WHY TO SELL: We are unsure how much emphasis the committee will put on a conference championship, so there's a glimmer of a chance that Ohio State will be penalized for not winning the Big Ten and the committee will overlook them because of it. There's also the big issue of the committee having to decide between them and Penn State if the Nittany Lions win the conference. Ohio State only has 1 loss while Penn State has 2, but a conference title plus being the head to head winner(PSU beat OSU this season) could make up for that 1 loss. To sell stock in OSU, you would have to buy into conference titles being very meaningful to the committee and that Penn State is going to win the Big Ten title on Saturday.
3. Clemson
WHY TO BUY: This one is pretty clear cut, buy stock in Clemson making the playoffs as long as you think that they will beat Virginia Tech on Saturday and win the ACC title. If they do, then they are an absolute lock for the playoffs and could jump to #2 even.
WHY TO SELL: Unsure about Clemson beating Virginia Tech? Thinking that an upset is about to occur? Then selling here is a good idea. If Clemson wins then they are in, but if Clemson loses then they are all but out of it. They would need Washington to also lose their conference title, then be at the mercy of the playoff committee and they choose between the B1G conference winner, Michigan, and Colorado(who would have beaten Washington in Pac-12 title) and even possibly the Oklahoma-Oklahoma State winner for the final 2 entries. There's still a chance to make it if they lose, but they would need a few dominos to fall their way, so if an upset is brewing here then sell stock in Clemson.
4. Washington
WHY TO BUY: This is just like Clemson, win their conference and they are in. The Huskies are sitting at #4 so they seem the most susceptible to be replaced, but they only have 1 loss while all teams behind them have 2 or more. That means that if Washington wins, then they would have to be replaced with a team with 1 more loss than they do, highly unlikely especially since they will be toting a conference title.
WHY TO SELL: This is even easier than Clemson's "sell" scenario, if they lose to Colorado then they are not making the playoffs. The committee doesn't tend to care much for the Pac-12 this season, as shown when Washington, who was undefeated at the time, was originally ranked #5 while a 1 loss Texas A&M team was at #4 when the first batch of playoff ranking came out a 5 weeks ago. Washington loses and they won't have the backdoor scenario that Clemson does, the Pac-12 champ(Colorado) will have a better shot at making it than the Huskies would at that point. So if you really think Colorado will pull this one out then sell all the stock you have of Washington.
5. Michigan
WHY TO BUY: 1 slip up by either Clemson or Washington and the Wolverines might be back in it. It's still risky even if that happens since that loss to Iowa may haunt them here, but they have an excellent case to make the playoffs especially if Washington loses. If the Huskies go down, then Michigan has the head to head win over Colorado and whoever wins the B1G(Wisconsin or Penn State) and all teams in the running would have 2 losses. It would appear in that case that Michigan could slide in to that 4th seed and make the playoffs.
WHY TO SELL: There seems to be a very good chance that championship week goes chalk and Clemson and Washington both win, then the final 4 of Alabama, Ohio State, Clemson and Washington is all but finalized. The other scenario is the B1G champ, namely Wisconsin, could hop over Michigan even if either Clemson or Washington lose. The main gripe will be that the Wolverines have beaten both competitors in the B1G title game, but the champ gaining a conference title and top 10 win to add to their resume could vault them over. Usually that 5 seed is first in line if one of the top 4 does falter, but losing 2 of their last 3 games puts Michigan in a spot where they could also get leapfrogged. This really is a 50/50 scenario on whether to buy or sell here, safe call is to sell but it isn't much of a gamble to buy here.
6. Wisconsin
WHY TO BUY: Here is where that pendulum swings from"mostly buying" to "likely selling", especially here with Wisconsin. They first would need to beat Penn State on Saturday. Next, they would need Clemson and/or Washington to lose. Then, they would still hope for the committee to choose them over Michigan since they aren't going to choose 3 teams from one conference(Ohio State would already be in.) In order to buy stock, you have to feel fairly confident that all 3 take place, and all 3 are high risks so buy with extreme caution.
WHY TO SELL: Because the 3 events that need to take place for them to make the playoffs is a long shot. It will be a struggle to beat Penn State even, let alone banking on Clemson or Washington to get upset in their conference title game. Then if the Badgers pass those 2 phases, jumping up over a team that beat them in the regular season is also a fairly big risk. I can see a reason to hold onto some stock just incase this happens since it would be a pretty big payout, but the smart play here is to sell stock in Wisconsin.
7. Penn State
WHY TO BUY: Though the Nittany Lions are sitting 3 spots away from the final playoff spot, they actually have a decent case if they can take care of Wisconsin on Saturday. Penn State would need to win along with Washington and Clemson winning as well. This opens the debate between them and Ohio State, who Penn State beat this season. They may need to do some politicking in order really drive their point across, but a 2 loss B1G champion could end up in the 4th spot over a 1 loss team due to the head to head result. Again, not knowing what the committee truly looks for when mapping out which teams should make the playoffs, but a win along with some help from Clemson and Washington could push PSU into the final playoff spot.
WHY TO SELL: Penn State is currently the underdog against Wisconsin, though it's a slim margin. But if they do not beat Wisconsin then they have no shot at the playoffs, so if you believe that the Badgers will win then go ahead and sell here. The Nittany Lions' overall body of work could be an issue for them as well even if they do win the Big Ten championship. Penn State has a win over Ohio State, but that is their only win against top 25 teams and they actually have a losing overall record against the top 25(1-2.) So while they could argue about their championship and head to head win over Ohio State, the Buckeyes overall have a much better body of work which would lead many to believe that they will get in over Penn State.
8. Colorado
WHY TO BUY: Only reason to buy stock in Colorado being a playoff team is if you enjoy rooting for extreme chaos to occur, because that's what it would take for the Buffaloes to make it. Colorado would need to beat Washington in the Pac-12 title game, would need Clemson to take an L in the ACC title game, and would need the B1G championship game to look like a complete dumpster fire and then they may have a shot as long as they don't get jumped by the winner of the Big 12 or even a Clemson team that lost to not fall behind them. The odds are stacked against them for sure, and they may be better off just playing spoiler to Washington's season rather than aim for the playoffs.
WHY TO SELL: Colorado would need somewhat of a miracle to make the playoffs, and it's never a good idea to hold onto stock that is based on the premise of a miracle. Everything could go Colorado's way this weekend and they still may not find themselves higher than 6th, let alone all the way up to 4th.
9. Oklahoma
WHY TO BUY: You're buying here because you think the scenario laid out in Colorado's path to the playoff will happen, but believe that the Sooners will jump them. Washington and Clemson both lose and the B1G title game is an unwatchable mess, all with the assumption that Oklahoma will beat Oklahoma State this weekend as well. And if you are curious why the Big Ten needs to have a terrible title game in order for either CU or OU to get in, it's because the committee will not take 3 Big Ten teams in the final 4 and neither team wants to compare/contrast resumes with Michigan. So if the B1G title game is poorly played, then Alabama, Ohio State and Michigan all get in and Oklahoma may have a better resume than Clemson, Colorado and B1G champ. Again, this is what needs to fall into place and we are talking a complete crapshoot even if it does happen.
WHY TO SELL: Needing to beat a top 10 team along with banking on the outcomes of 2 heavy favorites to both lose and then cross fingers that Oklahoma's resume somehow is well received enough to jump from 9th to 4th is comparable to playing Russian roulette with all 6 bullets in the chamber. There's a reason why Oklahoma is still sitting at 9th even though they are riding an 8 game winning streak and is undefeated in conference play, that should be telltale on how the committee views the Sooners' body of work.
10. Oklahoma State
WHY TO BUY: Mike Gundy already has a famous speech from a postgame press conference where he reminded everyone how old he was and why he doesn't read the newspaper. If Oklahoma State beats Oklahoma, then Gundy will need to deliver another memorable speech that resonates loudly with the committee to the point that they are willing to erase an Oklahoma State loss from existence. Buying stock here means to buy into the Cowboys winning and Gundy then reminding the entire world that they lost 1 game on a play that shouldn't have occurred, that Oklahoma State won the game and due to a referee blunder, the opposing team(Central Michigan) was undeservedly awarded one untimed down in which they managed an improbable hail mary lateral for the game winning touchdown. If that game is called correctly then Oklahoma State is now 11-1 on the season and deserves to be right there with Ohio State, Clemson and Washington as the 1 loss teams in playoff discussion. They also would need Clemson or Washington to lose and flipping a loss into a win in the minds' of the committee is a tough sell, but if you buy stock in them as a playoff team then you're buying Mike Gundy's ability to sell water to a camel.
WHY TO SELL: When a team is given less than a 1% chance of making the playoffs based on computer generated analysis that combs through every possible outcome this weekend, it's best to sell their playoff stock.
Dr. Seuss' How The Grinch Stole Christmas (FRI, NBC, 8pm)
Santa Claus Is Comin' To Town (FRI, ABC, 8pm)
Frosty The Snowman (FRI, CBS, 8pm)
Hell's Kitchen (FRI, FOX, 8pm)
Grandma Got Run Over By A Reindeer (FRI, The CW, 8pm)
New Japan Pro Wrestling (FRI, AXS TV, 8pm) How Murray Saved Christmas (FRI, NBC, 8:30pm)
Frosty Returns (FRI, CBS, 8:30pm)
Florida @ Florida State (SAT, ABC, 8pm) Wyoming @ New Mexico State (SAT, ESPN 2, 10:15pm)
Utah State @ BYU (SAT, ESPNU, 10:15pm)
NFL Top 10: Greatest Catches (FRI, NFL Network, 8pm)
A Football Life: Chuck Noll (FRI, NFL Network, 9pm)
NBA Mavericks @ Cavaliers (FRI, FOX Sports Ohio, 7:30pm)
Hornets @ Knicks (FRI, NBA TV, 7:30pm)
Warriors @ Lakers (FRI, NBA TV, 10:30pm)
Spurs @ Wizards (SAT, NBA TV, 7pm)
COLLEGE BASKETBALL Marshall @ Ohio State (FRI, Big Ten, 7pm)
NHL Blue Jackets @ Panthers (SAT, FOX Sports Ohio, 7pm)
Capitals @ Maple Leafs (SAT, NHL, 7pm)
MMA & BOXING
UFC Fight Night: Whittaker vs. Brunson - Prelims (SAT, FOX Sports 1, 8pm) UFC Fight Night: Robert Whittaker vs. Derek Brunson (SAT, FOX Sports 1, 10pm)
SOCCER
English Premier League: Chelsea FC vs. Tottenham Hotspur FC (SAT, NBC, 12:30pm)
OTHER SPORTS
Skiing: USSA Women's World Cup (SAT, NBC, 3pm)
Skating: ISU Grand Prix of Figure Skating, Grand Prix Russia Recap (SAT, NBC, 4pm)
Skating: ISU Grand Prix of Figure Skating, Grand Prix France Recap (SAT, NBC, 5pm)
The National Dog Show (SAT, NBC, 8pm)
It's a rivalry that spans the course of over a century.
They first played in 1897 and since then have battled 112 times. In 2000, ESPN ranked "The Game" as the greatest North American sports rivalry.
In 2006 they played the "Game of the Century" as no. 1 ranked Ohio State beat no. 2 ranked Michigan 42-39. And while Michigan leads the all-time series, Ohio State has won 11 of the last 12 meetings.
Ohio State coach Urban Meyer understands the magnitude of "The Game." During this week the word "Michigan" is never mentioned.
"I'm very biased and I'm very respectful of all rivalries, but I grew up in the 70's and this was a time when Bo Schembechler and Woody Hayes had two programs that were at the top of the food chain," said Meyer. "What I remember and what I make perfectly clear to our players is the amount of respect that I learned in this rivalry from those two great coaches was real."
This Saturday the no. 2 ranked Ohio State Buckeyes (10-1, 7-1 Big Ten) will host the no. 3 ranked Michigan Wolverines with National and Big Ten championship hopes on the line.
Looking at the stats these teams are as close as you would expect out of a 2 and 3 matchup. Ohio State is scoring 43.8 points per game while Michigan posts 42.3. The Wolverines give up 10.9 ppg with the Buckeyes allowing 13. Add to those numbers less than 50 yards difference in total yards posted and allowed and you have the making of a game for the ages.
Even the best player on each team are alike in that they are do-it-all playmakers for their teams.
Jabrill Peppers is in the Heisman discussion and with a big performance could be the first defensive player to win the award since another Wolverine defensive back, Charles Woodson. Peppers will return kicks and have his share of snaps on offense along with lining up all over the field on defense.
Ohio State H-back Curtis Samuel will look to break a couple big plays as he has done all year for the Buckeyes. Samuel has displayed a tremendous balance to his game gaining over 600 yards rushing and receiving for the Buckeyes along with 7 touchdowns on the ground and 7 through the air as well. He will have his work cut out for him as Michigan will come to the Shoe with the best defense Ohio State has faced all season.
For Michigan a win would give them a divisional championship and send them to Indianapolis for a shot at their first Big Ten championship since 2004. If they won the Big Ten championship they would lock up a place in the college football playoff and go on for a chance at a national championship.
Ohio State's path to a national title is actually more promising than their shot at a conference championship. The Buckeyes would need to win this weekend and then hope for Michigan State to beat Penn State to get a shot at a Big Ten championship in Indianapolis. But even if Penn State wins, the fact that the playoff committee has the Buckeyes ranked no.2 means a win against the no.3 team in the country would make it very difficult to leave Ohio State out of the four-team playoff.
"The Game" has more than just bragging rights on the line this year. Michigan is finally back to relevancy after a long layoff filled with losing seasons and multiple coaches. They've quickly put themselves back among the elite in college football after bringing in Jim Harbaugh. And while Michigan looks to build on a season that has them back in the national picture, Ohio State will try to continue as one of college footballs most successful programs since Urban Meyer was named head coach.
Personally as an Ohio State fan the rivalry with Michigan has lost a lot of its luster. Part of it was how bad the Michigan program had become, and part of it was a renewed rivalry between Meyer and Alabama coach Nick Saban. But with coach Harbaugh leading the Michigan program there is no doubt that they are back, and so is the greatest rivalry in college football.
What: Ohio State Buckeyes vs. Michigan Wolverines When: Saturday November 26, 2016 at 12:00 PM ET Where: Ohio Stadium, Columbus, Ohio Watch: ABC
So a couple of months ago, I attended a concert in which Slayer was one of the bands performing. In between songs about midway through their set, lead singer Tom Araya talked to the crowd and said "every single one of our songs is a love song." Now, if you know Slayer then you understand the confusion most of us had. If you don't know them then let's just say that they are a loud, head banging type thrash metal band that centers around some pretty dark lyrics. He then continued by saying that "they are considered love songs to him because they love making music and playing it for us, and we are here tonight because we love hearing music."
That's what rivalry week is, even though it's referred to as "hate week." This week is about hating your rival, but also about embracing the spirit of what this week is all about and having fun with it. You hate your rival but there's nothing to hate about this week, instead of "hate week" it's really "love to hate week."
This year is no different, and many rivalry games have a lot on the line in this penultimate weekend of college football. Though we are 2 Saturdays away from knowing who is in or out of the playoffs, most playoff potential teams have a "lose and you're out" situation for them, essentially making this a playoff game.
These 5 rivalry games are especially meaningful to not only their respective schools, but also have the most meaning going forward as far as the playoffs are concerned.
5. #13 Auburn at #1 Alabama - Nov 26th, 3:30pm
The Iron Bowl is traditionally one of the best rivalries in college football, though this year there really isn't much on the line.
Alabama has clinched the SEC West and is almost assured a playoff spot barring a loss here and a loss in the SEC title game. They won't take this game lightly though with bragging rights on the line here against their bitter rival.
Auburn is looking for the upset here as there is still a shot that they could get into a New Year's 6 bowl game. A win would also put some doubt into people's minds on Alabama being a playoff team, and would at least set up Alabama in a must win game in the SEC title game. Winning this rivalry game and pinning their rival's backs up against the wall is more than enough incentive for the Tigers here.
4. South Carolina at #4 Clemson - Nov 26th, 7:30pm
This Palmetto state rivalry game will be about a big underdog on the road attempting to play spoiler.
South Carolina's season has been underwhelming under 1st year Head Coach Will Muschamp. They are 6-5 on the season, but have a bit of momentum going for them as they have won 4 of their last 5 games. They look to capitalize on that momentum and end their regular season on a huge positive note with a win over their non-conference rival, which would knock Clemson out of playoff contention.
Clemson knows what's at stake here and they know they are facing a rival with nothing to lose. The Tigers are already in the ACC title game but they are just 1 loss away from falling out of the playoffs, losing to their rival and watching their playoff hopes slip away would just add insult to injury.
Will Clemson take a step closer to the playoffs or will South Carolina step up and knock them out?
3. #15 Florida at #14 Florida State - Nov 26th 8pm
2 weeks ago, the college football playoff rankings were turned upside down when the #2, #3 and #4 ranked teams all lost. That opened up a glimmer of hope for the Florida Gators, who may somehow control their own destiny now. Florida does have 2 losses, but a backloaded schedule of LSU, Florida State and Alabama means that by winning out then they could backdoor their way into the college football playoffs.
They were #23 at the time, and after a win over #16 LSU, they have now jumped to #15. Heading to their in-state rival will be step 2 in order to keep hope alive, and a big win here could vault them up into the top 10 heading in championship week.
Florida State will not be headed to the playoffs this season, but this is always a huge rivalry game for them and they could still find themselves in a New Years 6 bowl with a win here. A loss here though and they won't be playing in a prestigious bowl so they will need this game in a big way.
Florida needs this to have any chance at getting into playoff discussion while Florida State looks to cap off a regular season with a win as they head to a big bowl game.
2. #5 Washington at #23 Washington State - Nov 25th, 3:30pm
A few short years ago, both teams came into this game with winless records. Now, they come into this game with the winner advancing to the Pac-12 title game.
Washington State started the season off 0-2, including a loss to an FCS school. They then rattled off 8 straight victories before having that streak snapped last weekend by Colorado. While they won't be in the playoffs this season, a win and Pac-12 title berth would be huge for this growing program.
Washington has only one blemish on their schedule, a loss to USC, and have playoff aspirations still as a win here and in the Pac-12 title game could secure them a spot in the top 4. A loss though in either and they are eliminated from contention.
The Apple Cup decides the winner of the Pac-12 North division, both teams entering the game with a 7-1 conference record. Washington State can get a big program boost while knocking their rival out of the playoffs, Washington can continue their road to the playoffs with a big win and Pac-12 title berth.
1. #3 Michigan Wolverines at #2 Ohio State Buckeyes - Nov 26th, 12pm
The biggest rivalry has the biggest playoff implications, starting with the loser being eliminated from contention.
Michigan has a fairly simple playoff road, win this game and they are in the B1G title game. Win the title game and they are a lock for the playoffs, simply put, Michigan is one of the few teams that controls their own destiny.
Ohio State has a bit more murky of a path, as a win does not guarantee them a spot in the B1G title game. They need a win plus a Penn State loss, but if they win and PSU also wins then that will open up a major discussion on if a team that didn't win their conference should still go to the playoffs. They will be at the mercy of the playoff committee, and while it seems the majority of people feel that they will be in regardless, it all depends on how other teams' season finish and they may end up sliding from #2 to #5 and miss the playoffs.
Ask either team though and they'll tell you that it's all about this game, the playoff scenarios and next opponents do not matter to them right now. This game is just as big, if not bigger, than a playoff game.
10 years ago we were given a #1 vs. #2 matchup that ended up being the game of the century, this year has shades of that game in the making. Winner keeps an inside track to the playoffs, loser has to pine over this loss for a year while being eliminated from the playoff discussion.
Caught On Camera With Nick Cannon (FRI, NBC, 8pm)
Last Man Standing (FRI, ABC, 8pm)
MacGyver (FRI, CBS, 8pm)
Hell's Kitchen (FRI, FOX, 8pm)
The Vampire Diaries (FRI, The CW, 8pm)
New Japan Pro Wrestling (FRI, AXS TV, 8pm)
Dr. Ken (FRI, ABC, 8:30pm)
Dateline NBC (FRI, NBC, 9pm)
Shark Tank (FRI, ABC, 9pm)
Hawaii Five-0 (FRI, CBS, 9pm)
The Exorcist (FRI, FOX, 9pm)
Crazy Ex-Girlfriend (FRI, The CW, 9pm)
Z Nation (FRI, Syfy, 9pm)
Blue Bloods (FRI, CBS, 10pm)
Van Helsing (FRI, Syfy, 10pm)
ELeague (FRI, TBS, 10pm)
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Saturday Night Live Classic (SAT, NBC, 10pm) Saturday Night Live: Kristin Wiig, The XX (SAT, NBC, 11:30pm)
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COLLEGE FOOTBALL
Memphis @ Cincinnati (FRI, CBS SportsNet, 8pm)
UNLV @ Boise State (FRI, ESPN 2, 9pm)
Ohio State @ Michigan State (SAT, ESPN, 12pm) Wisconsin @ Purdue (SAT, ABC, 12pm)
Kansas State @ Baylor (SAT, ESPN 2, 12pm) Maryland @ Nebraska (SAT, ESPNews, 12pm)
Texas San Antonio @ Texas A&M (SAT, ESPNU, 12pm)
Oklahoma State @ TCU (SAT, FOX Sports 1, 12pm)
Iowa @ Illinois (SAT, Big Ten, 12pm) Florida @ LSU (SAT, SEC, 1pm)
Florida State @ Syracuse (SAT, ABC, 3:30pm)
Indiana @ Michigan (SAT, ESPN, 3:30pm) Texas @ Kansas (SAT, ESPN 2, 3:30pm) Virginia Tech @ Notre Dame (SAT, NBC, 3:30pm) Missouri @ Tennessee (SAT, CBS, 3:30pm)
Texas Tech @ Iowa State (SAT, FOX Sports 1, 3:30pm)
Northwestern @ Minnesota (SAT, Big Ten, 3:30pm)
Buffalo @ Western Michigan (SAT, ESPNU, 3:30pm)
Clemson @ Wake Forest (SAT, ESPN, 7pm) Chattanooga @ Alabama (SAT, ESPN 2, 7pm)
Arkansas @ Mississippi State (SAT, ESPNU, 7pm)
South Florida @ SMU (SAT, CBS SportsNet, 7pm)
Alabama A&M @ Auburn (SAT, SEC, 7:30pm) Arizona State @ Washington (SAT, FOX, 7:30pm)
Oklahoma @ West Virginia (SAT, ABC, 8pm) Penn State @ Rutgers (SAT, Big Ten, 8pm)
Tulsa @ UCF (SAT, ESPNews, 8pm)
New Mexico @ Colorado State (SAT, ESPN 2, 10:15pm)
USC @ UCLA (SAT, ESPN, 10:30pm)
NFL Top 10: Mic'd Up Guys (FRI, NFL Network, 8pm)
A Football Life: Steve Smith Sr. (FRI, NFL Network, 9pm)
Timberwolves @ Grizzlies (SAT, NBA TV, 8pm)
Bulls @ Clippers (SAT, NBA TV, 10:30pm)
COLLEGE BASKETBALL
Michigan vs. SMU (FRI, ESPN 2, 7pm)
Northern Iowa vs. Oklahoma (FRI, ESPNU, 7pm)
Central Florida vs. Charleston (FRI, ESPNU, 9:30pm)
NHL Rangers @ Blue Jackets (FRI, FOX Sports Cincinnati, 7pm)
Maple Leafs @ Canadiens (SAT, NHL, 7pm)
NASCAR & RACING
Camping World Truck Series: Ford EcoBoost 200 (FRI, FOX Sports 1, 8pm)
MMA & BOXING
UFC Fight Night: Bader vs. Nogueira 2 - Prelims (SAT, FOX Sports 1, 7pm)
UFC Fight Night: Ryan Bader vs. Rogerio Nogueira 2 (SAT, FOX Sports 1, 9pm)
Bellator MMA Live (SAT, Spike, 9pm)
SOCCER
English Premier League: Tottenham Hotspur FC vs. West Ham United FC (SAT, NBC, 12:30pm)
Bundesliga: Borussia Dortmund vs. FC Bayern Munich (SAT, FOX, 12:30pm)
A fan's perspective and overall view of the 2006 meeting between the Ohio State Buckeyes and Michigan Wolverines on the game's 10 year anniversary.
INTRODUCTION
"The Game of the Century"
I've often hated it whenever a big game gets labeled that for two reasons. The first being that having multiple games being called "the game of the century" seems unoriginal since game of the century implies that there's only one. And second, hyping up a game as the best game of the century usually is build up for a let down. Normally the game doesn't live up to the hype and calling it the game of the century looks foolish in hindsight. But on November 18, 2006 college football was given a game that was more than worthy of being called the game of the century. It lived up to the hype, it delivered on a grand stage and it deserved the label.
The 103rd meeting of the greatest rivalry in sports, the #2 Michigan Wolverines played the #1 Ohio State Buckeyes in the biggest game of their rivalry. The first time ever that they came into this game ranked #1 and #2 and first time since 1973 that both teams were undefeated going into their annual regular season finale. It was the perfect storm, 2 rivals playing for the highest stakes, those stakes being an outright Big Ten championship and a trip to play for the BCS National Championship.
NOVERMBER 11TH
"It's happening!"
Those were the 2 words that every Michigan and Ohio State fan had as the realization set in that both teams will be 11-0 heading into "The Game." Both teams played at 3:30 on November 11th, as fans kept one eye on their team and one eye on their rival. Ohio State disposed of Northwestern 54-10 while Michigan rolled over Indiana 34-3, setting up the biggest game of this 103 year old rivalry. After both games were finished, ESPN announced that College Gameday would be live from Columbus, OH to cover this showdown.
The hype had begun, the countdown was on, the following Saturday was going to be something special.
NOVEMBER 12TH-16TH
The emotions between both fanbases was off the charts. Ohio State-Michigan week is always crazy, but this week was something else. Fans wore their team colors all week, the amount of smack talk was unreal, it just seemed like everyone's life went on timeout while we just focused solely on this upcoming game. We all were just waiting for Saturday, and spent every waking hour before then talking about the game as a way to pass time. It's really tough to put into words just how electrifying the build-up was and living in the midst of it was something special. It felt like the momentum leading up to this game could in no way ever be derailed...
NOVERMBER 17TH
And then, around noon time on November 17th, the rivalry stopped. The University of Michigan, with heavy hearts, announced that Bo Schembechler had passed away on the eve of the Michigan-Ohio State game.
The mood was as somber as it gets, from both sides of the rivalry. Michigan went into mourning, Ohio State wasn't far behind. Michigan cried, and Ohio State lent their shoulder to cry on and even cried some themselves. It was heartbreaking but also so surreal, seeing the game stop and everyone come together. I, personally, made the necessary calls and texts to my Michigan friends and family and even needed a moment to gather myself as I took in the tough news and then one thought that I will remember forever popped into my head:
"As tough it is to lose someone who meant so much to this rivalry, Bo Schembechler will now get to watch his Michigan Wolverines play the Ohio State Buckeyes in the most important game ever in this rivalry from the best seat in the house...up in heaven, watching the game from above and seated right next to his best friend...Woody Hayes."
Bo Schembechler was a legendary coach and an even a better man, and Michigan will always love him for that. Bo Schembechler was also a great foe that took the rivalry to new heights during the "10 year war", and Ohio State will always respect him for that.
NOVEMBER 18TH
We have reached game day.
Normally, OSU-UM is like Christmas, it's tough to sleep the night before the game, you wake up early and can't go back to sleep, then it's just full on anticipation until the opening kick off. This year was different, many of us were still reeling from the loss of Bo and the 3:30 start time instead of the traditional noon kickoff made it drag. I know that in my lifetime, probably sooner than later, this game will become a staple at either 3:30 or 8pm because there's just too much money going around to keep this at a noon start. I will hate it though, not because I consider myself a traditionalist but that wait to noon seems long enough, I'll just continue to hope this remains a noon start as long as I can.
It wasn't until the Senior day announcements where I really started feeling hyped up. Especially when senior QB and Heisman leader Troy Smith was announced, the crowd got so crazy seeing him put his hand up in the air and scuffing his feet like a bull about to charge as he got set to run onto the field. That was the moment that I really felt the magnitude of the moment, where watching a #1 vs #2 match-up between rivals made me realize how special this was.
As the camera panned both sidelines, they showed all the big name players and the amount of talent that both teams had was just incredible. Chad Henne, Jake Long, Mike Hart and Mario Manningham on one side, Troy Smith, Tedd Ginn Jr, Antonio Pittman and Anthony Gonzalez on the other, not to mention 2 of the better coaches of the last decade or so in Lloyd Carr and Jim Tressel.
Every emotion seemed present for both Ohio State and Michigan fans as the opening kick off gets underway, a mere 3 hours or so away from finding out which team will become victorious and head to the BCS title game.
1ST QUARTER
Ohio State won the coin toss and elected to defer, and a touchback starts Michigan at their own 20. Michigan, led by QB Chad Henne, drove down the field with ease on their first possession, capping it off with a 1 yard TD run by Mike Hart to take a 7-0 lead. A big statement was made by the Wolverines on that drive, momentarily silencing a sold out crowd at Ohio Stadium.
The Buckeyes responded though, with a pass heavy attack to drive down the field and also score a touchdown on their first possession. QB Troy Smith found WR Roy Hall on a 1 yard TD pass for the score and we have a tie game at 7-7.
Both offenses then sputtered and punted on their next possessions, as the 1st quarter came to a close.
2ND QUARTER
After a second straight punt by Michigan's offense, OSU RB Beanie Wells took a handoff and broke free for a 52 yard TD run. Only a true freshmen at the time, Wells had his first signature moment of many in this rivalry as the Buckeyes now take a 14-7 lead.
Michigan, unable to capitalize on a 15 yard personal foul, was forced to punt for the 3rd straight possession but pinned the Buckeyes back at the 9 yard line.
Though they were way back at their own 9 yard line, the Buckeyes carved up Michigan's defense in just 4 plays for another score. Troy Smith scrambled and found WR Brian Robiskie down the field for a 40 yard gain, then hit Ted Ginn Jr. for a 39 yard touchdown. The Buckeyes now have a 21-7 lead.
Michigan, desperate for a score, got some help on the next drive by a pass interference call that kept their drive alive. They took advantage of it as Chad Henne found Adrian Arrington for a 37 yard TD pass and the OSU lead is now down to 7.
With under 3 minutes to go before halftime, the Buckeyes again began driving down the field with another pass heavy attack. With just under 30 seconds to go, Troy Smith finds Anthony Gonzalez open for an 8 yard TD pass, and the Buckeyes take a 28-14 lead into halftime.
3RD QUARTER
The Buckeyes got the ball to start the 3rd quarter, and looked to really put this one away with a scoring drive here. Instead, a 3 and out occurred and Ohio State was forced to punt the ball.
The next drive by the Wolverines was all Mike Hart, the Junior RB carried the ball 4 times and accounted for all 60 yards on that drive, including a 2 yard touchdown run. The Wolverines were very much back in it now, with the score being 28-21.
Then, Troy Smith threw an deflected interception to DL Alan Branch, setting up Michigan at the Buckeyes 25 yard line. The OSU defense was able to hold them to a FG though, as Michigan K Garrett Rivas makes it a 28-24 game.
With their offense reeling since halftime, Ohio State played a bit conservative, starting with a 10 yard out pass for a first down, their first of the half. Then, RB Antonio Pittman burst through and took it all the way for a touchdown, a 56 yard scamper. The touchdown put Ohio State up 35-24. Michigan started driving on their next possession, making it down into Ohio State's territory and close to FG range. On a 4th down, Michigan elected to go for it instead of attempting a 51 yard field goal, and were unable to convert which turned the ball over to the Buckeyes.
After a punt by each team, Ohio State had the ball again on offense. A mishandled snap though doomed this drive, as Michigan recovered at the Ohio State 9 yard line. The quarter ends with Michigan in prime position to make this a 1 score game again.
4TH QUARTER
Almost immediately as the quarter started, Mike Hart punched in his 3rd touchdown of the game. The Wolverines only trailed 35-31 now with nearly an entire quarter left to play.
The next Ohio State possession looked promising, driving inside the Michigan 30. Another mishandled snap though leads to another turnover, as Michigan recovers at their own 32. Michigan could not do anything with the opportunity though, as they went 3 and out and had to punt back to OSU.
As the Buckeyes crossed midfield, they faced a pivotal 3rd down as they were just out of FG range. Troy Smith eluded pass rushers, got near the sideline and got clobbered by LB Shawn Crable just as he threw the ball. The pass fell incomplete to set up a 4th down, but a penalty on the Crable hit gave the Buckeyes 15 yards and a first down. 3 plays later, Smith found Robiskie for a 13 yard touchdown and the Buckeyes now lead 42-31.
Chad Henne came up big in crunch time for the Wolverines, completing pass after pass as Michigan drove down the field. With time running out and needing 2 scores, Henne found Tyler Ecker in the end zone for a 16 yard touchdown pass with 2:16 remaining in the game. With the score at 42-37, the Wolverines opted to go for 2 and Henne to Steve Breaston successfully converted it.
Down 42-39, Michigan needed an onside kick recovery to have a chance. Ted Ginn Jr. was able to recover it though for the Buckeyes, and 3 straight runs killed the clock to end the game.
Ohio State won, 42-39.
AFTERMATH
"REMATCH!!!"
That was the big talk after the game, the potential for an Ohio State vs. Michigan BCS title game. The BCS poll came out the following Monday and sure enough, Michigan was still ranked 2nd and a rematch seemed imminent.
Unfortunately, the Big Ten did not have a title game while other conferences did, and due to that along with some politics from other coaches/universities, the Wolverines slipped to 3rd in the final BCS poll and would be headed to Pasadena to take on USC in the Rose Bowl instead. The Buckeyes did get their guaranteed spot in the BCS title game, and would go up against Urban Meyer and the Florida Gators.
Personally, a rematch needed to happen and I'm not saying this in hindsight as I thought this immediately following that game and still feel that way today. Michigan lost by 3 on the road to the team that had been #1 all season, that proves to me that they were one of the 2 best teams in the country and deserved a rematch on a neutral field to settle any doubts on who the better team was.
The results of the bowl games though, help the arguments of those who want to use hindsight. Michigan was beaten soundly by the USC Trojans in the Rose Bowl, 32-18 and slid all the way to 8th in the final AP poll. And Ohio State, coming into the BCS title game as heavy favorites, were outclassed and overall dismantled by the Gators 41-14 in a game where the Gators outscored the Buckeyes 41-7 after Ted Ginn Jr. took the opening kickoff back for a touchdown.
The bowl games were a bad look, but the season's both teams had and season that many players had individually is something of worth note.
Michigan had DE LaMarr Woodley, Jake Long, Chad Henne, Mike Hart, Leon Hall and Alan Branch all named to all-Big Ten teams with Woodley winning Big Ten defensive player of the year along with national awards such as the Lombardi award and Ted Hendricks award. Woodley, Long, Hart, Hall and Branch were also named to All-American teams.
Ohio State had DL Quinn Pitcock and James Laurinaitis named to All-American teams, with Laurinaitis also winning the Bronco Nagurski award. Troy Smith took home the majority of national awards. Smith was named Big Ten offensive player of the year, 1st team all-Big Ten, 1st team All-American, the Davey O'Brien award, the Walter Camp award, and the Heisman trophy, being named the best player in college football.
10 years later and this game still stands the test of time. It is not only a part of this rivalry and it's history, but it stands alone as the standard to which all other games going forward are measured up to. There may be a #1 vs. #2 match-up in the future and considering the programs that Michigan and Ohio State have, it's very likely that there will be. But this was something else, not only was it the first and the biggest game, but the game itself was beyond expectations(which says a lot since everyone had the highest of expectations).
Somehow, after a century of playing against one another, this game topped them all and re-wrote history. And a decade later, without the worry of being a prisoner of the moment, this was the greatest game ever played between the Ohio State Buckeyes and the Michigan Wolverines.
