Buckeyes stop their Michigan losing streak, stay perfect
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Ryan Day finally ended his losing streak against Michigan. Photo: Gregory Shamus/Getty Images
The Buckeyes' defeat of archrival Michigan — for the first time since 2019 — secured their postseason plans as they seek to repeat as national champions.
Why it matters: This was a particularly cathartic moment for head coach Ryan Day (now 2-4 in The Game) and an Ohio State roster that had never beaten Michigan.
Catch up quick: Fans got a little nervous when OSU went down 6-0 early, but it was all Buckeyes from there in a dominant 27-9 victory.
- Heisman hopeful Julian Sayin threw three touchdown passes, including an incredible fourth-down play to superstar Jeremiah Smith.
Flashback: After last year's game, Michigan players planted their flag on the Horseshoe field and spurred a midfield brawl that ended in pepper spray and fines for both teams.
The intrigue: OSU got its revenge on the scoreboard, but Michigan players "defended" the "M."
- Day ensured his players stayed away and kept a humble attitude after the win … though Brutus got to cross out one last "M."
What they're saying: Sayin said it was "awesome" to beat Michigan, and appeared to understand the gravity of the rivalry.
- "When I first got here, I was taught the tradition of this and what it means to Buckeye Nation and how much it means to the state of Ohio."
🔒 Stunning stat: The vaunted OSU defense allowed just 7.8 points per game this regular season.
- That's the best in the nation and one of the best in recent history.
🏆 What's next: No. 1 Ohio State faces No. 2 Indiana Saturday in the Big Ten championship game in Indianapolis.
- Both teams are expected to earn a first-round bye in the College Football Playoff regardless of the result.
- OSU is favored by 5.5 points.
👀 What we're watching: It might be a winner-takes-the-Heisman championship game.
- Quarterbacks Sayin and Fernando Mendoza are the two favorites for the award.