By Rowan Fisher-ShottonShareNewsweek is a Trust Project memberThe Game returns to Michigan Stadium on Saturday as No. 1 Ohio State (11-0) takes on No. 15 Michigan (9-2), a matchup that carries both Big Ten stakes and outsized emotional freight after the Wolverines’ recent run of wins.
Michigan still leads the all-time series and has owned the rivalry of late, winning the past four meetings.
The overall ledger sits with Michigan ahead, 62-51-6, a narrative adding to the historic rivalry.
That context explains why the Buckeyes have faced unusually persistent external pressure to beat Michigan even when national title hopes are on the line, a level of fixation Nick Saban called out on Wednesday.
During an appearance on "The Pat McAfee Show," the former Alabama coach called Ohio State fans "psychotic" for seemingly caring more about the rivalry game than winning a national title.
"I said it last year, I mean, these Ohio State fans, they're psychotic about this, man. They all need to go to see the doctor someplace. I'd rather win the national championship than beat Michigan. That's just me, right?" said Saban.
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In recent seasons, Ohio State’s playoff positioning, Big Ten dominance, and even their 2025 national championship run have repeatedly been overshadowed by one question: Did you beat Michigan?
The fixation intensified after Michigan’s 2023 title season and the Wolverines’ current streak, with it being 2,188 days since the Buckeyes last beat the Wolverines, as noted by McAfee on Wednesday's show.
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Ohio State brings a highly efficient offense led by Heisman-contending QB Julian Sayin, who has thrown for 2,832 yards, 27 touchdowns, and four interceptions, boasting a 185.4 passer rating (second best in college football).
They also boast the best scoring defense in college football, holding teams to just 7.6 points per game.
Michigan, meanwhile, leans on a power rushing attack headlined by running backs Jordan Marshall and Justice Haynes, both of whom have over 850 rushing yards and 10 rushing TDs.
While Ohio State enters as 9.5-point road favorites, Michigan’s win-rate at the Big House and the crowd environment have repeatedly impacted outcomes in this rivalry.
Either way, this edition carries playoff relevance, a loaded historical backdrop, and an intensity that will make every mistake expensive.
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