The Michigan Wolverines and Ohio State Buckeyes share one of the most intense rivalries in college football, a tradition that spans over a century. This rivalry, often referred to as “The Game,” is much more than just a football game. It’s a battle for pride, history and supremacy in the Big Ten Conference.
During the 120th meeting between Michigan and Ohio State, in a stadium that appeared to be a sea of red shirts, Michigan secured its fourth consecutive victory, winning 13-10, improving its overall record in the rivalry to 62-52-6 (62 wins by Michigan, 52 wins by Ohio State, six games ending in a tie). The win also brought Michigan’s winning record, while playing in Columbus to 29-28-2 (29 wins by Michigan, 28 wins by Ohio State, and two games ending in a tie).
After Michigan secured the win, several Wolverines players tried to plant a Michigan flag on the center of the Buckeyes Field but were met with Ohio State players who were determined to not let this happen. A fight quickly erupted.
Ohio State player Jack Sawyer was seen ripping the flag out of a Michigan player’s hands.
“Now there are some skirmishes on the field. An unsportsmanlike gesture by Michigan,” Gus Johnson said. “It’s unnecessary, they won the game. No need to be disrespectful.”
Johnson’s broadcast partner, Joel Klatt, also commented on the action.
“Incredibly ugly scene for a beautiful rivalry. Gus, you hate to see this,” Klatt said.
Ohio State head coach Ryan Day seemed unfazed as the fight took place. Day spoke during a press conference after the game.
“This game is a war,” Day said. “Anytime there’s a war, there’s consequences and casualties. Then, there’s the plunder and the rewards that come with it.”
Michigan head coach Sherone Moore viewed the situation a little differently. Moore spoke in an interview with Fox Sports after the game.
“Both teams could have handled the situation differently. So many emotions on both sides,” Moore said. “Rivalry games get heated, especially this one. It’s the biggest one in the country, so we got to handle that better.”
Late in the fourth quarter, Michigan broke a 10-10 tie with a clutch field goal, and broke the tie with a field goal, changing the score to 13-10 and making the Wolverines the winners of the OSU vs. U-M game.
“You talk about a gritty performance by a bunch of guys!” Moore said. “I love these dudes! This is why you come to Michigan!”
Around the CHS community, many people were watching the game. Sophomore Jesse Shtein was watching the game on the plane while flying back from Austin, Texas for Thanksgiving break.
“It was very intense up until the last moment,” Shtein said. “It was really fun to watch, just seeing how everyone around me was reacting during the game.”
