In one of the most stunning outcomes in recent college football history, the Michigan Wolverines (7-5, 5-4 Big Ten) edged the No. 2 Ohio State Buckeyes (10-2, 7-2) 13-10 on Saturday in “The Game,” delivering their fourth consecutive victory over their archrival. Despite entering the game as 21-point underdogs—the largest spread in the rivalry since 1978—Michigan defied the odds, spoiling Ohio State’s hopes of a Big Ten Championship appearance and a potential College Football Playoff berth.
The Wolverines’ victory was secured in the final moments when kicker Dominic Zvada nailed a 21-yard field goal with just 45 seconds remaining. The game-winning drive was set up by a 27-yard burst from running back Kalel Mullings, who broke free to position Michigan deep in Buckeye territory. The Wolverines reached the Ohio State 3-yard line but stalled, leaving Zvada to seal the deal with his chip-shot field goal.
Ohio State had one last chance, but quarterback Will Howard’s fourth-down pass fell incomplete, sending the Michigan sideline into a frenzy and cementing a victory that will be remembered for years.
Few gave Michigan a chance in this matchup. The Wolverines, unranked and struggling through a disappointing season, were without key contributors, including tight end Colston Loveland and cornerback Will Johnson. Yet, they relied on grit and timely plays to topple the heavily favored Buckeyes.
Mullings carried the offensive load, rushing for 116 yards and Michigan’s only touchdown, which came after a first-half interception by Howard deep in Ohio State territory. On a frigid afternoon that saw both offenses sputter, Michigan’s defense stood tall, capitalizing on Ohio State’s mistakes.
Ohio State’s offensive struggles were evident throughout. Howard, who has been reliable all season, finished a lackluster 19 of 33 for 175 yards, one touchdown, and two costly interceptions. The Buckeyes also missed opportunities in the kicking game, with Jayden Fielding failing on two field-goal attempts.
The Buckeyes’ frustration culminated in a post-game skirmish. Michigan players attempted to plant their flag at midfield, only to be met by Ohio State players, sparking a melee that had to be broken up by police using pepper spray.
For Ohio State’s senior leaders—wide receiver Emeka Egbuka, running back TreVeyon Henderson, and defensive end Jack Sawyer—this loss was particularly devastating. Many had returned for another season specifically to beat Michigan, a goal that once again eluded them. Their emotions were evident post-game, as they were inconsolable on the sidelines.
For Michigan, the win offers a silver lining to a tough season as they await their bowl game destination. For Ohio State, the loss leaves their College Football Playoff hopes in jeopardy. The Buckeyes will now wait anxiously for the final CFP rankings on Dec. 8, hoping their resume will still earn them a spot in the top four.
This latest chapter in the storied rivalry between Michigan and Ohio State proves once again that anything can happen in “The Game.” Records, rankings, and point spreads may frame the narrative, but the action on the field always delivers the unexpected.
