No. 2 Ohio State Aims for Big Ten Championship Game Berth Against Michigan

The highly anticipated matchup between No. 2 Ohio State and Michigan this Saturday holds significant implications for the Big Ten Championship Game. Ohio State, currently 10-1 overall and 7-1 in the Big Ten, is seeking to secure a spot in the championship game by defeating their arch-rivals, the Michigan Wolverines.

A victory for Ohio State would not only avenge their three consecutive losses to Michigan under former coach Jim Harbaugh but also lock in a trip to the Big Ten Championship Game. There, they would face No. 1 Oregon, the team that handed Ohio State its only loss of the season. This potential rematch is a significant motivator for the Buckeyes, who are eager to prove themselves against the top-ranked team.

Michigan, now 6-5 and 4-4 in the Big Ten, has clinched bowl eligibility but finds itself in an unfamiliar underdog role. Despite their struggles this season, Michigan hopes to play spoiler and end their regular season on a high note. The game marks the 120th meeting between the two programs, with Michigan leading the all-time series 61-51-6, though the rivalry is deadlocked at 28-28-2 in games played in Columbus.

The key matchup will feature Michigan quarterback Davis Warren against the stout Ohio State defense. Warren, who regained his starting role midseason, faces his toughest challenge yet against a defense that dominated undefeated Indiana last week, sacking the quarterback five times and holding the Hoosiers to a season-low 153 yards.

The stakes are high for Ohio State, with a win ensuring their participation in the Big Ten Championship Game on December 7th at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis. This game is crucial for the Buckeyes’ playoff positioning and their quest for redemption against both Michigan and Oregon.