Ohio State winning the national championship has brought a lot of confusion regarding the loss to Michigan. This year marked the fourth consecutive defeat in the rivalry for head coach Ryan Day, a low point for the Buckeyes. Just weeks after that disappointing loss, however, they found themselves at the pinnacle of college football after an extraordinary College Football Playoff run. How can such a dramatic turnaround happen in such a short time?
What Does It Mean for The Game?
So, does this championship victory diminish the significance of The Game for Ohio State? Can they lose to Michigan and still emerge as national champions? Former player and current Big Ten Network Analyst Joshua Perry believes the answer is a resounding no. He emphasizes the need for Ohio State to maintain a high level of intensity against Michigan every year, regardless of the circumstances surrounding the rivalry.
“It certainly feels like that game lost a little bit of the consequence,” Perry remarked. “Typically, that would be a loss that disqualifies you from competing in the postseason. So, I hope for the players in that building, it’s still one of the program objectives.”
The Importance of Rivalry
Perry’s passion for the rivalry is palpable. He hopes that fans will continue to show up with the same fervor they always have, regardless of the outcome in any given year. “It’s the most special game in college football, in my opinion. I don’t want it to lose any of that feeling,” he added.
Perry played four seasons at Ohio State under head coach Urban Meyer, and during that time, he was undefeated against Michigan. Meyer valued defeating “That Team Up North” more than anything, often referring to them as “the Wolverines” even in media discussions. This speaks volumes about the culture surrounding this rivalry and the pride associated with it.
A Historic Perspective
To understand the weight of this rivalry, consider this: Ohio State’s last five-game losing streak to Michigan dates back to the 1920s. That’s nearly a century! The Buckeyes’ recent struggles in this matchup have raised eyebrows and heightened expectations. With a national championship now in hand, there’s still pressure on Day to break this streak, especially as Ohio State prepares to head back to Ann Arbor on Nov. 29, 2025—a place they haven’t won since 2019.
Perry, who was also part of Ohio State’s 2014 national championship-winning team, knows just how crucial it is to beat Michigan. For him, there’s almost nothing more important than that victory. The pride and passion surrounding this game are what make college football so special.
Looking Ahead
As the Buckeyes gear up for their next encounter with the Wolverines, the stakes will undoubtedly be high. Even with the weight of a national championship on their shoulders, the rivalry will always be a defining aspect of Ohio State football. The question remains: how will the players respond to the pressure? Will they rise to the occasion, or will the ghosts of past defeats linger?
Regardless of the outside noise, Perry is hopeful that Ohio State will keep the same level of intensity when stepping into the Big House. The rivalry is not just about wins and losses; it’s about tradition, pride, and the heart of college football.
The Legacy of The Game
Ultimately, the significance of The Game transcends a single season or a national title. It’s about the legacy, the history, and the unyielding spirit of competition that defines college football. For fans, players, and coaches alike, this rivalry is a cornerstone of their identity. It’s a game that brings communities together, ignites passions, and creates memories that last a lifetime.
As Ohio State prepares for the next chapter in this storied rivalry, one thing is clear: the intensity and passion for beating Michigan will remain a top priority. After all, in college football, it’s not just about the trophies; it’s about the battles fought and the pride earned along the way. The Buckeyes are ready to embrace that challenge, and fans can’t wait to see what unfolds next.
