The highly anticipated showdown between the top-ranked Ohio State Buckeyes and the 18th-ranked Michigan Wolverines is set for this Saturday as both teams seek to claim a crucial victory in the Big Ten Conference. With Ohio State currently boasting an undefeated record of 11-0 and standing atop the conference with an 8-0 mark, they are eager to end a four-game losing streak against Michigan, a team they have not bested since 2019. Meanwhile, Michigan, with a record of 9-2 and 7-1 in conference play, also targets a spot in the Big Ten Championship Game, though they will need assistance for that to happen.
The game will take place at Michigan Stadium in Ann Arbor, kicking off at noon ET. Ohio State enters the game as a 10-point favorite and the over/under for total points is set at 43.5, reflecting the tightly contested nature expected of this rivalry matchup. Ohio State’s notable absence includes wide receivers Jeremiah Smith and Carnell Tate, who are both listed as questionable, while Michigan will be without running back Justice Haynes.
Recent matchups have seen a trend towards high-scoring encounters. The betting model from SportsLine forecasts an over on the total points, suggesting that both teams have shown scoring prowess in recent games. In fact, the over has hit in nine of the last ten face-offs between Ohio State and Michigan, indicating the potential for another high-scoring affair.
With expectations high, Ohio State quarterback Julian Sayin is projected to pass for over 260 yards and two touchdowns, while Michigan’s quarterback, Bryce Underwood, is expected to contribute with over 150 passing yards and one touchdown. According to simulations, the combination of their offensive capabilities could lead to a total of 47 points being scored in the game.
This matchup not only carries significant weight for both teams’ championship aspirations but also continues a storied rivalry that fans have come to cherish. As Ohio State seeks to reclaim dominance in this tradition-laden battle, the Wolverines will aim to defend their home turf and extend their winning run in this historic clash.