Ohio State wins against Michigan to end four-game losing streak against rival in CFP statement

Ohio State Dominates Michigan in Big Ten Showdown

ANN ARBOR, Mich. — Julian Sain threw three touchdown passes, including a crucial 35-yard completion to Jeremiah Smith on fourth down during the second quarter, leading No. 1 Ohio State to a commanding 27-9 victory over No. 15 Michigan on Saturday.

The reigning national champions, the Buckeyes (12-0, 9-0, ranked No. 1 in the Big Ten and CFP), are now set to likely secure a first-round bye in the College Football Playoff.

A win against No. 2 Indiana (12-0, 9-0, ranked No. 2 in CFP) in the upcoming conference championship game in Indianapolis will help them maintain their top position.

Ryan Day can finally breathe easier after last year’s disappointing loss, which had raised questions about his future with the team. Their previous game against Michigan had been particularly tough, contributing to a four-game losing streak in the rivalry.

The Wolverines (9-3, 7-2) started off well, managing two field goals and an interception within their first three drives. However, they struggled to apply consistent pressure on Ohio State’s passing game.

After a shaky start, including an interception on his second snap, Sain settled down and utilized the time he had effectively.

He tallied two touchdowns during the first half, going 6 of 68 for yards, capped by a 4-yard pass to Brandon Innis that pushed the score to 17-9 going into halftime. Overall, Sain completed 19 of 26 passes for 233 yards, marking the sixth game this season he has thrown at least three touchdown passes.

In the third quarter, Sain delivered a stunning 50-yard touchdown pass to Colonel Tate, floating the ball smoothly over the defenders to widen the gap.

While the Wolverines were able to score three field goals in the first half, they couldn’t manage to halt the Buckeyes in the latter stages. Ohio State secured their victory with a field goal midway through the fourth quarter, rounding off a lengthy 20-play, 81-yard drive that consumed almost 12 minutes of clock time.

Michigan quarterback Bryce Underwood, the top recruit last year, struggled towards the end, throwing an interception and completing just 8 of 13 passes for a meager 63 yards—his lowest output this season. The Wolverines’ rushing game also faltered, managing only 100 yards on 24 attempts, facing one of the top defenses in the nation.