It’s rivalry day: Ohio State vs. Michigan. The stakes are as high as the bragging rights are loud. “The Game” has been fueling border-state tension since 1897, with Michigan holding the overall edge 62–52–6, though Ohio State has dominated much of the modern era, winning 17 of the last 24 meetings. Every year, this matchup feels bigger than football — it’s tradition, legacy, and bragging rights wrapped into four intense quarters.

When these teams face off, playoff hopes or conference championships often hang in the balance. Even decades-old grudges, from border-war roots to dusty recruiting disputes, fuel fan passion.

Odds & Predictions: The Models Lean Buckeyes

Most sportsbooks list Ohio State as a 10.5-point favorite in today’s game, with moneyline odds around –390 vs. Michigan’s +310.

The projection models agree: one recent simulation gives the Buckeyes a roughly 82% chance of winning, with a predicted score around 31–17 in favor of Ohio State.

Analysts point to Ohio State’s elite defense, running game, and overall depth as key advantages.

Governors Place Friendly Bets

Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine and Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer have placed a friendly chip-to-chip wager ahead of kickoff. If Ohio State wins, Whitmer has agreed to send some of Michigan’s finest: Better Made, Great Lakes Potato Chips, and Downey’s. If Michigan wins, DeWine will ship over Ohio favorites: Conn’s, Grippo’s, Jones’, Mikesell’s — along with Marsha’s Homemade Buckeyes for good measure.

Both governors say they’re confident their side will win, with DeWine cheering, “Go Bucks!” and Whitmer adding, “Go Blue!”

Win or lose, players, coaches and fans alike know this game never just decides a season, it defines a legacy.