The Buckeyes are going to be good, but there can still be satisfaction.
A couple weeks ago we had some fun reminiscing about the recent Michigan wins over Ohio State. A slim majority (myself included) felt that 2021 was the most satisfying, though I am sure the 2022 and 2023 editions were thoroughly enjoyed as well. While we are still four months away from the 2024 showdown, this year’s game looks to be a great chance for Michigan to defy the odds again.
Ohio State is expected to win the Big Ten, and many analysts think it could be a national championship or bust for the Buckeyes in 2024. The expanded playoff means the annual November matchup has slightly lower stakes in terms of championship opportunity, but Ryan Day would disagree if anyone suggested The Game is any less important. With the 12-team playoff comes some interesting scenarios, though, for Michigan to play spoiler.
How would you like Michigan to ruin Ohio State’s season?
Given that Ohio State is very likely to make the College Football Playoff and that Michigan has a legitimate shot to win whenever the rivals might meet, I present three different scenarios that could happen next season.
Scenario 1: Michigan wins in Columbus, but Ohio State ends up with a national championship.
- The Buckeyes get their title, but do so a year after their rivals – and without a perfect record. Oh, and the Wolverines make it four-straight wins, extending Day’s hilarious losing streak.
Scenario 2: Michigan wins in Columbus, but Ohio State gets revenge in Indianapolis and/or the CFP (and does not win the national championship).
- Sooner or later, these two rivals are going to meet multiple times in the same year. Will it happen the very first year of the expanded playoff? Sounds like a nightmare.
Scenario 3: Ohio State beats Michigan in Columbus, but ultimately falls short of the title.
- This would give Day some breathing room, depending on how far the Buckeyes got in the CFP (and to whom they ultimately lose). It could rebalance the rivalry some, but at least there is no grand prize.
My vote (in order of most preferred to least) would be 2, 3, 1, but let us know your preference in the poll!
What do you think? Is there another outcome that you find even more appealing? Let us know in the comments below!