This upcoming game between the Ohio State Buckeyes and Michigan Wolverines is shaping up to be the most one-sided matchup in years. Ohio State is a 20.5-point favorite, and it’s easy to see why. One team is 10-1 and ranked No. 2 in college football, while the other is just 6-5 after winning the national championship last season.
With Michigan winning the last three meetings in this rivalry, Ohio State is coming into this game with a strong desire for revenge. The Wolverines stand between the Buckeyes and a potential rematch with Oregon in the Big Ten Championship, so Michigan will be highly motivated.
For Michigan to have any chance of winning, they’ll need to slow the game down and keep the score low. Their defense, which is still strong in key areas, will need to perform at its best.
The biggest strength of Michigan’s defense is its defensive line, especially the interior. Defensive tackles Mason Graham and Kenneth Grant form a dominant duo, and players like Rayshaun Benny provide solid depth.
Graham is considered one of the top prospects for the 2025 NFL Draft, while Grant is also climbing up the first-round conversation after a strong finish to the 2024 season.
They’ll be going up against an Ohio State offensive line that has done well but still has some holes. After Josh Simmons’ injury a few weeks ago, Donovan Jackson had to fill in. Then, starting center Seth McLaughlin also got hurt, weakening the interior line even more.
The interior trio of Austin Siereveld, Carson Hinzman, and Tegra Tshabola held their own against Indiana, but Michigan’s defensive line is a much bigger challenge. If Graham or Grant can dominate, Michigan might have a chance. If not, it could be a blowout.
On paper, Michigan’s defensive line is their biggest advantage. The key question will be whether Ohio State’s young offensive line can stand up to the pressure. This matchup will play a huge role in deciding the outcome of the game.
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