The Greatest Battles Top Games in the Michigan-Ohio State Rivalry
The epic clash between the Michigan Wolverines and the Ohio State Buckeyes transcends mere football; it's a cultural touchstone in college athletics. With countless memorable games over their 119-year history, choosing the "top" is subjective, but here are some contenders that stand out for their drama, significance, and sheer brilliance:
1. "The Game of the Century" (2006): Both teams entered undefeated and ranked #1 and #2 respectively, setting the stage for an epic showdown. In a seesaw battle, Ohio State edged out Michigan 42-39, securing a national championship berth and etching this game in rivalry lore.
2. "The Ten Year War" Era (1969-1978): This decade embodied the intensity of the rivalry with legendary coaches Woody Hayes (Ohio State) and Bo Schembechler (Michigan) at the helm. Games were close and fiercely contested, with several notable ones:
-1969: Unranked Michigan upset #12 Ohio State 24-12, snapping a Buckeye winning streak and igniting the "Ten Year War."
-1973: #4 Michigan faced #1 Ohio State in a 10-10 tie, showcasing incredible defensive battles and missed opportunities.
3. The "Snow Bowl" (1950): Amidst a blizzard, #8 Ohio State refused to postpone the game against unranked Michigan. In brutal conditions, both teams fought valiantly, with Ohio State ultimately prevailing 7-3. This game became a legend for its perseverance and unique circumstances.
4. The "Tresselgate" Upset (2010): Unranked Michigan stunned #1 Ohio State 37-7, fueled by the Buckeyes' NCAA violations scandal involving coach Jim Tressel. This upset solidified the rivalry's unpredictability and the power of underdog narratives.
5. Recent Dominance (2016-Present): Although Ohio State has dominated this period, two games stand out:
2016: A double-overtime thriller saw Ohio State edge out #3 Michigan 30-27, showcasing exceptional plays and nail-biting tension.
2022: Michigan finally broke the Buckeye winning streak with a dominant 42-27 victory, marking a significant moment in the rivalry's current landscape.
These are just a few highlights in a rivalry rich with unforgettable moments
1. "The Game of the Century" (2006): Both teams entered undefeated and ranked #1 and #2 respectively, setting the stage for an epic showdown. In a seesaw battle, Ohio State edged out Michigan 42-39, securing a national championship berth and etching this game in rivalry lore.
2. "The Ten Year War" Era (1969-1978): This decade embodied the intensity of the rivalry with legendary coaches Woody Hayes (Ohio State) and Bo Schembechler (Michigan) at the helm. Games were close and fiercely contested, with several notable ones:
-1969: Unranked Michigan upset #12 Ohio State 24-12, snapping a Buckeye winning streak and igniting the "Ten Year War."
-1973: #4 Michigan faced #1 Ohio State in a 10-10 tie, showcasing incredible defensive battles and missed opportunities.
3. The "Snow Bowl" (1950): Amidst a blizzard, #8 Ohio State refused to postpone the game against unranked Michigan. In brutal conditions, both teams fought valiantly, with Ohio State ultimately prevailing 7-3. This game became a legend for its perseverance and unique circumstances.
4. The "Tresselgate" Upset (2010): Unranked Michigan stunned #1 Ohio State 37-7, fueled by the Buckeyes' NCAA violations scandal involving coach Jim Tressel. This upset solidified the rivalry's unpredictability and the power of underdog narratives.
5. Recent Dominance (2016-Present): Although Ohio State has dominated this period, two games stand out:
2016: A double-overtime thriller saw Ohio State edge out #3 Michigan 30-27, showcasing exceptional plays and nail-biting tension.
2022: Michigan finally broke the Buckeye winning streak with a dominant 42-27 victory, marking a significant moment in the rivalry's current landscape.
These are just a few highlights in a rivalry rich with unforgettable moments
