This game is different. It always is. This rivalry transcends everything, even the playoffs. At least as far as these two teams are involved. It’s The Game. The success of the season for either team is predicated upon the outcome of this game, and this game alone. Either team could win only one game in the season, and as long as it’s THIS game, then the season is a success. That’s the nature of this rivalry, and our panelists tell who they think will have achieved success tonight.
Tom Pence’s Predictions:
Ohio State 31, Michigan 28
This is one of the best rivalries in the CFSL and both have a dislike for each other. Also this is one of those games where you throw the records out because it is going to be a war. The Buckeyes are riding a two game win streak right now, while Michigan is on a four game slide. With that, if Ohio State thinks they are going to just come in and roll the Wolverines, then they will be on the end of a loss of their own. The difference though is the play of freshman linebacker Isiah Fowler in this one and that’s is why I’m picking the boys from Columbus in a close one.
Houston Freeman’s Predictions:
Ohio State 38, Michigan 24
If the underdog has told you anything this year, it ain’t the size of the dog it’s the size of the fight in the dog that wins you games sometimes. This week, I believe Ohio State has the leg up on bitter rival Michigan. However, my Spidey-Sense tells me we might be in for a heck of a ball game. I’ve liked Jefferson Allen all season long, but he’s gotta avoid turnovers tonight.
Connor Russell’s Predictions:
OSU 45, Michigan 43
The Game has finally arrived, and while it lacks playoff meaning, it means everything in the world to both sides. I really don’t have any fantastic, mind-blowing analysis here. Ohio State should win based on their track record and talent advantage. But the one thing I do want to say is that I’m incredibly proud of Jimbo’s takeover of my former program. Turning this rivalry back into a rivalry is exactly what we needed to spice things up. Go Bucks!
BMillz’s Predictions:
Ohio State 35, Michigan 34
Ohio State has a prolific air raid attack but Michigan has the Joose, Joose Staley I mean. I think the Buckeyes offense versus the Wolverines defense is gonna be the most interesting aspect of this game, but Ohio State can run away with it if Isaiah Fowler can shut down the dynamic rushing duo of Tanner Jones and Dior Chapman.
Hornsnation’s Predictions:
OHIO STATE 25, Michigan 28
The Buckeye defense has been extremely leaky this season and Michigan looks to go back to the ground and pound type of attack. Look for Ohio State’s Fowler to rack up the tackles but Michigan to roll out the win.
Jeff Melinyshyn’s Predictions:
Ohio State 34, Michigan 27
Jimbo gets his first taste of this rivalry. Ohio State as a collective is 3-2 versus Michigan. The last time Michigan won was back in Season Four (49-42). Jimbo was talking about finishing 4-4 this season, he’ll do it as he gets his first win against Michigan.
DAVID ROY’S PREDICTIONS:
OHIO STATE 42, MICHIGAN 31
The Wolverines have pulled off one upset over the course of their season, and it’s been their only win. Ohio State has had some…inconsistencies this season. But the Buckeyes are in position to get back to .500. As long as they can afford turnovers and their defense can contain the combined might of Tanner Jones and Dior Chapman, the Buckeyes should be able to take care of business tonight.
THE VERDICT:
Six to one. That’s the way our panelists fall on this rivalry game tonight. Six of our analysts are rolling with the Buckeyes to walk into Ann Arbor and get the win tonight. It’s The Game. And all bets are off.
