Ohio State Vs. Michigan Rivalry

By Harrison Hess and Michael Moksin

Ohio State Vs Michigan Rivalry

The Ohio State vs Michigan rivalry dates back to 1835. The rivalry dates back to when Michigan and Ohio had a land dispute over the area of Toledo. The war was fought over the Toledo Strip, a disputed area where the Territory of Michigan and the State of Ohio shared legal jurisdiction. President Andrew Jackson intervened and settled the matter by offering Michigan statehood if it gave up its claim to the land.

The first Ohio State vs. Michigan game was played in 1897. The first Ohio State vs Michigan game on 11/25/1897 ended in Michigan taking the lead, 28-18.

The rivalry got more intense during the Ten-Year War from 1969 to 1978. The Ten Year War was a series of college football games, played from 1969 to 1978, in the Michigan–Ohio State football rivalry that pitted coach Woody Hayes of the Ohio State Buckeyes against coach Bo Schembechler of the Michigan Wolverines. The game is now one of the most watched games in college football.

The first ever Ohio State vs Michigan game consisted of 71,000 people. The atmosphere and attendance has changed incredibly. Caleb Cybulski went to the Ohio State vs Michigan game on November 30th 2024 and he said, “Everyone was hype and excited to watch.”

Another reason why many football fans go to watch sports games is because of the players. As Landon quoted, “One of the main reasons I went to the Ohio State game was to see Jeremiah Smith.”

The games are usually very competitive with fights breaking out among the players and fans. Also fans from both sides eagerly await “The Game” each year, knowing that victory brings not only bragging rights but also a better chance to get a shot at the National Championship. The rivalry can also be off the field, with school pride, and even friendships and families divided by their loyalty to either Ohio State or Michigan.

One of the most iconic moments in the rivalry’s history came in 2006, when both teams were ranked No. 1 and No. 2 in the nation. The game lived up to the hype, with Ohio State winning 42-39 in a thrilling battle. This game is still considered one of the greatest matchups in college football history.

Another unforgettable moment occurred in 2016, known as the “Spot Game,” when Ohio State controversially converted a fourth-down attempt in double overtime to secure a 30-27 victory. The close call was argued for a very long time.

Michigan leads the rivalry 61-52-6. Michigan has been dominating lately.

The rivalry isn’t just about history, it continues to shape the future of college football and the game of football. Whether played in Columbus or Ann Arbor, the rivalry continues with fans traveling up north or south.