Ohio State vs. Michigan

Arguably the best rivalry in all of college football – and that’s just in regards to the fans. Quite simply, don’t wear red in Ann Arbor, Michigan and don’t dare think about donning maze and blue in Columbus, Ohio. Ever.

This rivalry has been brewing since 1835, but many believe that the official fire was lit during the coaching days of Woody Hayes (OSU) and Bo Schembechler (U of M).

No rivalry has a better combination of history and championship implications than Michigan vs. Ohio State. Since 1913, the two teams have combined for all or part of 70 Big Ten titles and the have finished 1-2 in the standings 15 times since 1968.

Our latest sports content can be found in the Sports category in our new magazine format. Archived sports content can be found in the Sports category in our blog.

What kicked off the hate?

Many believe that this rivalry stemmed from the two states battling over territory in 1835. The football rivalry has seemed to carry over from the Toledo War, which was a bloodless battle over the Michigan-Ohio border.

Who has the lifetime edge?

The Wolverines own a 57-39-6 overall record against the Buckeyes. The advantage was piled up during the early years of the rivalry. During the John Cooper years at Ohio State, Michigan built on their record as Cooper went 2-10-1 against the Wolverines. Lately, Jim Tressel has revived Ohio State's fortunes by compiling a 4-1 record against Michigan.

Best Game?

From ESPN’s Page 2: No. 1 Ohio State vs. No. 4 Michigan. 1973. Each team is undefeated. Big Ten title and Rose Bowl trip on the line. The teams play to a 10-10 tie, and share the title. Who goes to Pasadena? Big Ten ADs voted on it, and the Wolverines stayed home.

News and Commentary on the Rivalry:

Official University of Michigan Athletics home page
Find updated rosters, news and depth charts on all the current Michigan Wolverines

Official Ohio State University Athletics home page
Find updated rosters, news and depth charts on all the current Ohio State Buckeyes.

OSU vs. Michigan Conflict Page
Check out game recaps, stats and trivia on arguably the best rivalry in college football at the OSU vs. Michigan.

A list of the 10 best Michigan-Ohio State games
One man's list of the greatest games.

Great moments in the rivalry
Ivan Maisel has a great column discussing Woody, Bo and the best rivalry in sports.

All-Time Ohio State and Michigan Teams
ESPN takes a crack at naming the all-time teams, taking into account the pro careers of the players as well.

More than 50 years ago, ‘Snow Bowl’ heated up OSU-UM rivalry
A legendary contest in Columbus termed the ‘Snow Bowl’, both squads often punted on first down in hopes of the other team fumbling.

Game Recap: Michigan 31, Ohio State 23
Ohio State is 11-0 and ranked No. 2, but is undone by Tim Biakabutuka's 313 yards on 37 carries in ‘95.

Game Recap: Ohio State 37, Michigan 21
QB Troy Smith’s first OSU-U of M game was a contest Smith will never forget as the unranked Buckeyes topped #7 Michigan 37-21 in ’04.

Jumping the gun
If the two programs stay undefeated, the 2006 Michigan-Ohio State game might become the biggest games in the history of both schools.

ADVERTISE WITH US!

If you're trying to reach men in their 20s and 30s, or you're trying to reach male readers who have an interest in sports and recreation, Bullz-Eye.com's Sports Channel can be an excellent resource. We offer text link ads and banners of all sizes. Our traffic has grown to more than 70 million page views and 5 million unique visitors per month! Contact us and we'll help you meet your advertising needs.