Michigan Shocks Ohio State in 1969
Every once in a long while, a college football game comes along nobody will ever forget. These contests often have a long-lasting impact on the sport itself as well as the players and coaches who were a part of it... — bleacherreport.com
Rivalry games are the best, as teams get up to play their most hated opponents. The game to circle in the Big Ten today and in 1969 is the annual Buckeyes and Wolverines contest.
The 1969 Michigan vs. Ohio State football game was more than just a rivalry matchup. It was a monumental showdown with national championship implications, etched in history as "The Upset of the Century."
Defiance in the Face of Expectations:
The undefeated and heavily favored Ohio State Buckeyes, led by legendary coach Woody Hayes, were widely considered the superior team. They had won 22 straight games and were ranked #1 in the nation. Facing them were the #12 Michigan Wolverines under first-year head coach Bo Schembechler, determined to prove themselves against the mighty Buckeyes.
A Defensive Masterclass:
The game unfolded as a defensive battle. Michigan's defense, led by Jim Mandich and Tom Darden, shut down the Buckeyes' high-powered offense, forcing six interceptions and limiting Rex Kern to a dismal performance. Ohio State's vaunted running game, anchored by Jim Otis, was also neutralized by the Wolverines' tenacious defense.
Michigan's Rise to Glory:
On offense, Michigan relied on a balanced attack. Quarterback Don Moorhead connected with Billy Taylor for a 54-yard touchdown pass, while the running back duo of Garvie Craw and Barry Pierson punched in two crucial touchdowns.
A Nation Stunned:
As the final seconds ticked away, Michigan secured a shocking 24-12 victory, silencing the Ohio State crowd and sending shockwaves through the college football world. This unexpected triumph marked the beginning of the iconic "Bo Schembechler vs. Woody Hayes" rivalry and cemented Michigan's place in the national championship picture.
