Few rivalries in college football are as intense and historic as Ohio State vs. Michigan better known as The Game. Played almost annually since 1897, Michigan holds the edge in the all-time series with a 62-51-6 record. However, Ohio State has largely controlled the matchup since 2000, boasting a 17-7 record against the Wolverines.
That dominance has faded in recent years, with Michigan winning the last four meetings. The most recent upset was in 2024, when Michigan stunned Ohio State 13-10 on the road despite being a 20.5-point underdog. While Michigan struggled last season, finishing 8-5, Ohio State thrived, capping off a 14-2 season with a national championship victory.
With the 2024 season now in the books, ESPN Bill Connelly has already turned his attention to predicting the outcome of the 2025 matchup. He anticipates a season similar to last year for the Buckeyes.
I’m sure the Buckeyes will look the part for most of the season, Connelly wrote. But as with 2024, a defeat to Michigan will open the door for a couple of other teams to play for the Big Ten championship.
According to Connelly, Ohio State will once again miss out on the Big Ten Championship Game, a stage they haven’t reached since 2020. Instead, he predicts that Penn State and Michigan will face off for the conference title Michigan chasing its fourth championship in five years, while Penn State aims for its first since 2016.
This forecast may not sit well with Ohio State fans, though many are likely still celebrating their national title. With another high-stakes showdown on the horizon, all eyes will be on The Game to see if the Buckeyes can reclaim their dominance or if Michigan will continue its winning streak.
