The Michigan Wolverines edged out the Ohio State Buckeyes 13-10 in a nail-biting clash at Ohio Stadium, marking Michigan’s fourth consecutive victory in this iconic rivalry. The game was defined by its gritty defensive battles, key plays on both sides, and postgame fireworks—both literal and metaphorical.
Big Plays and Key Stats
Michigan’s running back Kalel Mullings was the standout performer, racking up 116 rushing yards and the only touchdown for the Wolverines. Meanwhile, Ohio State quarterback Will Howard struggled against Michigan’s stifling defense, completing 19 of 33 passes for 175 yards and a lone touchdown to Jeremiah Smith.
Defensively, Michigan excelled, holding Ohio State to just 3.2 yards per carry and forcing two critical turnovers that helped seal the game. Ohio State’s defense, while solid, couldn’t contain Mullings or generate enough momentum to give their offense a chance to shine
The Postgame Melee
The most talked-about moment came after the game when Michigan players attempted to plant their flag at midfield on Ohio State’s iconic Block O. The act sparked a melee as Buckeyes players rushed to stop them. What ensued was an intense scuffle that required officials and coaches to intervene. Both teams were subsequently fined for violating the Big Ten’s sportsmanship policy
Opinion: A Shift in the Rivalry’s Balance of Power
This game reflected a significant shift in this historic rivalry. Michigan’s physicality and discipline proved too much for Ohio State, whose offense seemed out of sync in the season’s biggest game. For the Wolverines, the win reinforced their dominance in recent years and kept their College Football Playoff hopes alive.
The postgame drama, while unsavory, underscores the passion and stakes of this storied matchup. As Michigan celebrates and Ohio State reevaluates, “The Game” remains a must-watch spectacle.