Chris Wilds
In what was supposed to be an easy win for the No. 2 ranked Ohio State, Michigan delivered a shocking 13-10 victory on Saturday, dealing a crushing blow to the Buckeyes’ Big Ten Championship hopes.
The game, marked by missed opportunities, was decided with just 45 seconds left when Dominic Zvada drilled a 21-yard field goal for the maize and blue. The decisive moment followed a crucial 27-yard run by Kalel Mullings, who spearheaded the Wolverines’ final drive. For Michigan (7-5, 5-4 Big Ten), it was their fourth consecutive win over Ohio State.
Ohio State (10-2, 7-2 Big Ten) had one last chance to respond, but quarterback Will Howard’s fourth-down pass fell incomplete, prompting an eruption of celebration from Michigan’s sideline and despair among the Buckeye faithful at Ohio Stadium.
Michigan’s ground game dictating the pace. Mullings shone with 116 rushing yards and the Wolverines’ only touchdown. Meanwhile, Ohio State’s offense struggled to find its footing. Howard completed 19 of 33 passes for 175 yards, managing just one touchdown while throwing two costly interceptions. The Buckeyes’ ground attack was bottled up, and kicker Jayden Fielding missed two pivotal field goal attempts.
Ohio State’s errors proved decisive. Howard’s first-half interception deep in Buckeye territory set up Michigan’s sole touchdown, a momentum shift the Buckeyes never fully overcame.
“This one hurts,” said Ohio State head coach Ryan Day. “We didn’t execute, plain and simple.” Day, now 1-4 against Michigan, faces mounting criticism, with fans questioning his ability to win big games after another high-stakes disappointment.
Postgame tensions flared as Michigan players attempted to plant their flag at midfield, igniting a brief scuffle with Buckeye players in what was an ugly scene.
Without a doubt the Buckeyes make the college football playoff group of 12, however their seating for the playoffs becomes significantly more difficult. For Michigan, the upset provides a morale boost and improves their standing for a minor bowl game.
