As Thanksgiving approaches, it’s not just the traditional turkey that excites fans; it’s the anticipation of one of college football’s most iconic rivalries: Ohio State vs. Michigan. Widely known as “The Game,” this storied matchup offers players the chance to etch their names into the annals of college football history with unforgettable performances.
Over the decades, a number of Buckeyes have captured the hearts of fans and secured their legacies in this fierce rivalry. Here are ten highlighted performances that continue to resonate.
In 1968, Jim Otis delivered a legendary display, scoring four touchdowns, leading Ohio State to a resounding 50-14 victory over Michigan. His explosive performance complemented Rex Kern’s adept leadership, showcasing an impressive 421 yards of rushing.
Fast forward to 1972, Arnie Jones made his mark as a defensive powerhouse, showcasing relentless determination with 24 tackles. His efforts were pivotal in restricting Michigan to just 11 points, contributing to Ohio State’s defensive legacy in this showdown.
In 1986, despite a narrow loss, Chris Spielman posted an unforgettable defensive performance with a record-breaking 29 tackles. This performance earned him All-American honors and solidified his status as one of the greats in Buckeye history.
David Boston shone in 1998, recording an exceptional 10 catches for 217 yards and two touchdowns in a 31-16 victory, a performance that further cemented his legacy as one of Ohio State’s all-time great receivers.
Troy Smith’s stellar play in 2006 propelled the Buckeyes to a thrilling 42-39 victory, culminating in a run to the National Championship. Smith’s accuracy and composure—throwing for 316 yards and four touchdowns—highlighted his prowess, later earning him the Heisman Trophy.
In 2007, Chris “Beanie” Wells was instrumental in Ohio State’s quest for back-to-back Big Ten titles. He rushed for a career-high 222 yards and two touchdowns, leading Ohio State to a hard-fought 14-7 win over Michigan.
The 2013 game saw Braxton Miller deliver a brilliant performance, tallying 286 total yards and five touchdowns in a 42-41 nail-biter. Meanwhile, Carlos Hyde also made a significant contribution with 226 rushing yards.
Ezekiel Elliott capped off his collegiate career in 2015 with a standout performance, rushing for 214 yards and two touchdowns during a convincing 42-13 win against Michigan, making him one of the few Buckeyes to surpass 1,500 rushing yards in multiple seasons.
In 2018, Dwayne Haskins showcased his talent with a record-setting performance, throwing for 396 yards and six touchdowns in a stunning 62-39 victory. Haskins’ contributions not only contributed to a significant win but also set a Big Ten record with a season total of 42 touchdown passes.
Finally, J.K. Dobbins made his mark in 2019 with a career-high 211 rushing yards and four touchdowns, illustrating his importance in leading Ohio State to a decisive 56-27 victory and securing a spot in the Big Ten Championship Game.
These performances, along with honorable mentions from other great players, exemplify the unforgettable excitement of Ohio State vs. Michigan and remind fans why this rivalry is so special. As this Thanksgiving approaches, college football fans are hopeful for even more thrilling moments to come.