UPDATE: The Ohio State Buckeyes have decisively defeated the Michigan Wolverines, securing a spot in the Big Ten Championship game with a commanding 27-9 victory on Saturday afternoon in Ann Arbor. This win marks the end of a four-game losing streak against their rivals and showcases the Buckeyes’ prowess just ahead of the conference title showdown.
The Buckeyes silenced the Wolverines’ momentum early, outgaining them 233-58 in passing yards. The decisive moment came with just over two minutes remaining when defensive back Davidson Igbinosun intercepted Wolverines quarterback Bryce Underwood, sealing the game for Ohio State.
Quarterback Julian Sayin delivered a standout performance, completing 19 of 26 passes for 233 yards and throwing three touchdown passes, including a crucial 50-yard strike to extend the lead to 24-9. The Buckeyes’ offense was further bolstered by running back Bo Jackson, who amassed 117 yards on over 22 carries.
As snow fell in Ann Arbor, the Buckeyes took control with a late first-half touchdown from Sayin to wide receiver Brandon Innis, pushing the score to 17-9. This followed a significant penalty by Michigan linebacker Jaishawn Barham, which allowed Ohio State to capitalize on a three-point swing before halftime.
This victory propels the Buckeyes into the Big Ten Championship game against the No. 2 Indiana Hoosiers, who clinched their berth after a dominating 56-3 win over the Purdue Boilermakers. The championship match will take place next Saturday at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis, Indiana.
The Hoosiers, under second-year coach Curt Cignetti, have been on an impressive run, fueled by their Heisman Trophy hopeful quarterback. Ohio State faces the prospect of a rematch against Indiana, having eliminated them from Big Ten title contention earlier this season.
As the defending national champions, the Buckeyes are poised to reclaim their place atop college football, looking to repeat their success from the 2020 season when they triumphed over the Northwestern Wildcats.
The collapse of Michigan’s playoff hopes adds a bitter twist for the Wolverines, who must now regroup after snapping their four-game winning streak in this historic rivalry. Fans are left to wonder how this defeat will impact the Wolverines’ future as they were already on the brink of playoff contention.
Stay tuned for more updates on the Buckeyes’ journey as they aim for another championship, and watch for the upcoming clash against Indiana, which promises to be a thrilling encounter.
