The Series

This will be the 107th game in what is considered the greatest rivalry in college football. The two teams first met in 1897 and have played every year since 1918. Since 1935 the game has been the last conference game of the season. Michigan leads the series 57-43-6, and leads 27-23-2 in games played in Columbus. Michigan has not won in Columbus since 2000. As I have said in past previews, I think it is worth looking at the record since Woody Hayes first season at OSU. Since 1951, OSU leads the series 31-26-2. Before Woody Hayes, Ohio State was considered the "graveyard of coaches." Starting with Woody Hayes, Ohio State took its rightful place in college football and in the series with Michigan.

Last year Ohio State beat Michigan 21-10 in Ann Arbor. Michigan threw four interceptions and had one lost fumble, with that fumble leading to a defensive TD by OSU in the first series. The loss prevented Michigan from getting into a bowl game, and resulted in a 5-7 record. The OSU running game had 251 on the ground with 96 by Herron, 84 by Saine, and 74 by Pryor. Pryor was limited to 9 passes for 67 yards. OSU wore special Nike uniforms that were inspired by the 1954 uniforms.