Ohio State-Michigan Rivalry Faces Missing Usual Stakes This Year, Deadspin Reports
Losses Diminish The Game’s Stakes
The Ohio State-Michigan matchup is often treated as college football’s defining rivalry, with both teams typically having something important to play for. This season, recent results have sharply reduced the stakes.
Ohio State lost at home to Oregon, recording its third defeat of the season. Michigan then suffered a setback against Michigan State, failing to score a touchdown. The article says a Cheez-Itz Bowl appearance may be all either team can still pursue.
Coaching Futures Could Be A Factor
Ohio State’s coach, Ryan Day, won a national title two years ago, so the article says it would be surprising for the school to move on from him. Further losses before the rivalry game, however, could put job security in focus.
The article also names Kyle Wittingham as potentially under pressure if his team loses again. It says a five-loss season, including a defeat to the rival, could create trouble for either coach.
Jeremiah Smith’s Health In Focus
Smith is described as a likely top-three pick in the NFL draft this spring. The article says a major injury is the only factor that could change that projection.
Key points
- Ohio State’s loss to Oregon was its third defeat of the season.
- Michigan was held without a touchdown by Michigan State.
- The rivalry game could affect the job security of Ryan Day or Kyle Wittingham.
- Jeremiah Smith could consider sitting out after further Ohio State losses.