Then third-year running back TreyVeyon Henderson (32) bounces off a defender into the end zone for a touchdown. No. 2 Ohio State lost to No. 3 Michigan 30-24 at Michigan Stadium Nov. 25, 2023. Credit: Caleb Blake | Lantern File Photo
The 120th meeting between Michigan and Ohio State, slated for Nov. 30, will be critical for the storied rivalry’s future.
Michigan is seeking a fourth straight win, which would consequently derail Ohio State’s aspirations for a Big Ten title.
Meanwhile, the Buckeyes hope to quiet critics of head coach Ryan Day and compete for a national championship.
Despite their (5-5, 3-4 Big Ten) record, the Wolverines can make this year’s installment of “The Game” competitive.
Michigan’s offense relies on a strong run game to control the clock. Its running back duo of Kalel Mullings and Donovan Edwards consistently provides speed and power for the Wolverines.
The duo has accumulated 1,177 yards and 10 touchdowns through 10 games, forming one of the top backfields in the country.
In the passing game, Colston Loveland is the Wolverines’ primary target, as the 6-foot-5, 245-pound tight end leads the team with 49 catches for 523 receiving yards and four scores.
Loveland’s size and athleticism create a mismatch for most defenders, which is key for Michigan to efficiently move the ball down the field.
Quarterback play could be another crucial factor for Michigan, with both Davis Warren and Alex Orji having the potential to start, as they have split time throughout the season. Warren is a better passer, but Orji’s ability to run makes him a dynamic weapon.
In six games, Warren has thrown for 869 yards and five touchdowns, completing 90 passes on 146 attempts. On the other hand, Orji has thrown for just 148 yards on 23-of-44 passes in nine games.
Orji is effective in designed runs and scramble situations. If he plays significant snaps, he can exploit Ohio State’s struggles against mobile quarterbacks.
Orji is also the Wolverines’ third-leading rusher, racking up 227 yards and a score through 10 games.
Defensively, Michigan needs to focus on stopping Ohio State’s run game, as Quinshon Judkins and TreVeyon Henderson provide a potent one-two punch in the backfield.
If Michigan can force Ohio State into a pass-first game, it could limit the Buckeyes’ offensive options, so it’s vital for the Wolverines’ defensive line to stop the run early.
If Michigan succeeds in halting Ohio State’s run game, it will force quarterback Will Howard to make plays for Ohio State, leaving the rest to the Wolverines’ secondary.
Ohio State’s receiving corps, led by Jeremiah Smith, is deep and talented. The team features three wideouts who’ve recorded over 450 receiving yards through 10 games with Smith, Carnell Tate and Emeka Egbuka.
Michigan junior cornerback Will Johnson, however, can challenge Smith.
Johnson’s ability to shut down top receivers will be imperative to Michigan’s success. If he can neutralize Smith, Ohio State’s passing game will be much less effective.
Michigan’s defensive line also has a major opportunity against Ohio State’s offensive line. With left tackle Josh Simmons out for the season, Michigan must take advantage of this weakness.
Defensive ends Josaiah Stewart and Mason Graham are essential to putting pressure on Howard. The duo has combined for 10 sacks through 10 games this season, and their ability to disrupt Ohio State’s protection will make it difficult for the Buckeyes to sustain drives.
The Game is always unpredictable, and Michigan has the tools to make it a close one. If the Wolverines execute their best game plan, another upset over Ohio State is not out of the question.
Ultimately, the Wolverines must play disciplined, mistake-free football to keep their four-game win streak alive and pull off another victory.
