So far in the 2025 football season, the Big Ten conference has proven to be a monster.  After this weekend’s stretch of games, it was evident to me who Michigan needs to be most concerned with.  Let me just start with saying Michigan may have lucked out without having to play Oregon or Indiana to keep their Big Ten play clean.  As it stands now, there isn’t a team on Michigan’s remaining schedule that should trip them up, that is until November 29th. 

The annual clash between the Michigan Wolverines and the Ohio State Buckeyes is always a defining moment in the college football season, and the upcoming 2025 matchup on November 29th at Michigan Stadium is no exception. While the expanded College Football Playoff (CFP) era has arguably reduced the immediate "win-or-go-home" implications for a national title berth compared to previous years, "The Game" still carries immense weight for both programs, potentially shaping their path through the Big Ten Conference and their overall season success.

Season Context and Stakes

Michigan enters the rivalry game with a four-game winning streak against the Buckeyes, including a surprising upset victory in Columbus in 2024. Ohio State, fresh off a national championship season in 2024, will be eager to break the losing streak and reassert dominance.

The implications of this game extend beyond bragging rights:

• Big Ten Championship Race: With the elimination of divisions in the Big Ten, the top two teams in the conference now meet in the championship game. The Michigan-Ohio State outcome will significantly impact which team secures a spot in the Big Ten title game and potentially the overall conference championship.
• Playoff Seeding and Bids: While the expanded playoff lessens the risk of a single loss completely derailing a team's national championship aspirations, a victory against a top rival like Ohio State or Michigan can provide a significant boost in the College Football Playoff rankings, impacting seeding and potentially securing a coveted playoff bye.

Rivalry narrative

Michigan fans have recently shown a strong desire to continue their winning streak against Ohio State, with some prioritizing a fifth consecutive victory over a spot in the College Football Playoff. Ohio State, on the other hand, is determined to end Michigan's recent dominance and reclaim the bragging rights. The rivalry remains one of the most intense and captivating in college football, with each team's performance against the other carrying immense significance for their fanbase, regardless of the broader playoff picture. The historical context of the rivalry, dating back to 1897, adds another layer of drama to each new chapter.  It seems like every year there is a memorable play or incident, and this year should be no different.

Even though Michigan had the weekend off, their ranking didn’t change much and they are at # 20.  Ohio State dominated Washington in Washington and won by more than most thought they would. As if Michigan didn’t have their eye on the Buckeyes enough, they must continue to improve these next few weeks if they want a chance to take down their rival from that state of Ohio.