Michigan Stuns No. 2 Ohio State in Rivalry Thriller, Ending Buckeyes’ Big Ten Title Hopes
COLUMBUS, Ohio — In a game that will go down as one of the most shocking upsets in recent memory, Dominic Zvada nailed a 21-yard field goal with just 45 seconds left on the clock, lifting Michigan to a stunning 13-10 victory over No. 2 Ohio State on Saturday. The win not only marked Michigan’s fourth straight triumph over their bitter rivals but also likely dashed the Buckeyes’ hopes of returning to the Big Ten title game next week.
For Michigan fans, this was a moment of pure joy. For Ohio State, it was a nightmare. The Buckeyes entered the game as heavy favorites, with a 10-2 record (7-2 in the Big Ten) and a No. 2 national ranking. Meanwhile, the Wolverines, unranked and sitting at 7-5 (5-4 in the Big Ten), were wrapping up what many considered a disappointing season. But as anyone who follows this storied rivalry knows, records and rankings often mean little when these two teams clash.
How It All Went Down
The game was a defensive slugfest from start to finish, with neither team able to generate much offensive momentum on a frigid afternoon in Columbus. But late in the fourth quarter, Michigan found a spark. With just over two minutes remaining, Kalel Mullings broke free for a 27-yard run, setting the Wolverines up at Ohio State’s 17-yard line. The drive stalled at the 3-yard line, but that was all the room Zvada needed to deliver the game-winning kick.
Ohio State had one last chance to respond, but their offense faltered. Quarterback Will Howard threw an incomplete pass on fourth down, sealing the victory for Michigan and sending the Wolverines’ sideline into a frenzy.
Key Moments and Struggles
For Ohio State, this loss will sting for a long time. The Buckeyes were out of sync all afternoon, and their offensive struggles were glaring. Howard completed just 19 of 33 passes for 175 yards, throwing one touchdown and two costly interceptions. The run game was virtually nonexistent, and kicker Jayden Fielding missed two field-goal attempts that could have changed the outcome.
On the other side, Michigan leaned heavily on Mullings, who was the Wolverines’ primary offensive weapon. He rushed for 116 yards and scored Michigan’s only touchdown of the game in the first half. His performance was crucial on a day when both teams struggled to move the ball consistently.
One of the game’s pivotal moments came in the first half when Howard threw an interception deep in Ohio State’s own territory. Michigan capitalized on the mistake, turning it into their lone touchdown of the game. It was a sign of things to come for the Buckeyes, who never seemed to find their rhythm.
Postgame Drama
As if the game itself wasn’t dramatic enough, tensions boiled over after the final whistle. Michigan players attempted to plant their flag at midfield, a move that didn’t sit well with Ohio State players. A skirmish broke out as players from both teams pushed and shoved before being separated. It was an emotional end to an already intense rivalry game.
Takeaways from the Game
Here are some key takeaways from Michigan’s stunning upset:
- Michigan’s Resilience: Despite a disappointing season, the Wolverines showed incredible grit and determination to pull off the upset.
- Ohio State’s Missed Opportunities: The Buckeyes’ offensive struggles and missed field goals proved costly in a game where every point mattered.
- The Rivalry Factor: Once again, this game proved that anything can happen when Michigan and Ohio State face off, regardless of rankings or records.
For Michigan, this win is a bright spot in an otherwise underwhelming season. For Ohio State, it’s a bitter pill to swallow, especially with so much on the line. The Buckeyes will now have to regroup and figure out what went wrong as they look ahead to bowl season.
As for the rivalry, this game will only add to its rich history. Four straight wins for Michigan over Ohio State? That’s a streak that Wolverines fans won’t let their rivals forget anytime soon.
Originally Written by: dc:creator
