COLUMBUS, Ohio — In a thrilling upset, the Michigan Wolverines triumphed over the No. 2 ranked Ohio State Buckeyes, clinching a narrow 13-10 victory, despite being a 19½-point underdog. This marks the biggest upset in the storied rivalry since 1969, when Michigan was a 17-point underdog and emerged victorious.
Despite a season characterized by offensive struggles, Michigan executed a solid game plan that relied heavily on defense and special teams. The Wolverines won the critical rushing battle—continuing the tradition where the rushing victor has won every matchup since 2001—with a significant 172-77 advantage on the ground.
Key moments defined the match, including a resilient defensive performance that thwarted Ohio State’s attempts to score. Michigan defense ensured that the Buckeyes left empty-handed on multiple occasions when they ventured into Wolverine territory, showcasing impressive stops that maintained their chances until the very end.
Quarterback Davis Warren, stepping into the spotlight, played a crucial role during a pivotal fourth-quarter drive that chewed up clock and led to a game-winning field goal by Dominic Zvada with just 45 seconds remaining. Although the Michigan offense faced challenges, Warren completed 9 of 16 passes, contributing meaningful plays that kept the Wolverines in contention.
The victory relieves Michigan of finishing the season at or below .500 for the first time since a disappointing 2014 season. With a record of 7-5 and awaiting their bowl game assignment, the Wolverines’ performance against Ohio State has sparked hope for the program’s future.
However, the post-game atmosphere was marred by a brawl that erupted after Michigan players celebrated by planting their flag at midfield. Wolverine player Kalel Mullings addressed the incident afterward, expressing disappointment at the unsportsmanlike behavior but underscoring the team’s determination and resolve throughout the game.
This significant win not only boosts Michigan’s morale but also sets a positive trajectory for the program moving forward, potentially signifying a shift back towards competitiveness against strong opponents in the Big Ten.
In summary, Michigan’s 13-10 victory over Ohio State reinforces their resilience and showcases their capacity to overcome adversity, an encouraging sign for the fans and the team’s future.