Well the big day is finally here as #17 Michigan welcomes in (and I use that term loosely) their hated rivals in Ohio State to the Big House for a 12 noon kickoff.
In a rivalry that has been dominated by the Buckeyes in recent years, including last years 37-7 pounding that Wolverines took at Ohio Stadium, this season seems different. For instance, Michigan is coming off a very impressive and convincing win last weekend against Nebraska while Ohio State seems to be reeling at 6-5 under first year head coach Luke Fickell. Fickell’s presence comes after an offseason for the Buckeyes that was marred in allegations suggesting players sold merchandise for tattoos that former head coach Jim Tressel covered up. Subsequently Tressel was fired by the University and starting quarteback Terrelle Pryor high-tailed it to the pros to avoid any further NCAA investigation.
Ohio State however cannot be taken lightly.
The Buckeyes got receiver DeVier Posey back in the lineup last week and to running back Dan Herron is always a threat to break out for large gains. Not to mention freshman QB Braxton Miller has also shown signs this season that he can make big plays.
On top of everything too for Michigan, a win today could give them a chance at an at-large BCS bowl game at the end of the season.
Ohio State player to watch: Dan Herron, RB
Running back Dan Herron was one of the key figures in the tattoo scandal that rocked Ohio State University during the offseason. Because of his involvement, Herron had to sit out five games at the beginning of the season. Limited playing time aside this year, Herron has put together some very good games for the Buckeyes this season and has a history of providing fits for the Michigan defense. Last season, Herron rushed for 175 yards on 22 carries. In 2009 he had 96 yards against Michigan and in 2008 he had 80 yards, including a 49-yard touchdown run.
It’s clear that if Michigan wants to limit the Ohio State offense today, Herron is one of those players who’ll need to be kept in check.
Michigan Player to watch: Denard Robinson, QB
Of all the Michigan players, Denard Robinson may be starving for a win against Ohio State the most. He may also be the one who’s going to be the under the microscope most as a veteran player of the rivalry. Last season’s game at Ohio State Denard Robinson, much like the rest of the team was very ineffective against the Buckeyes. In fact Robinson missed a good portion of the second half with two dislocated fingers.
This season Robinson is averaging 90.3 yards, is completing 54 percent of his passes and has 15 touchdowns. The downside is Robinson also has 14 interceptions which he will have to limit today against an Ohio State defense that is very comparable to Michigan.
More complete defensive play
The past few seasons Michigan has been more known for their offense than defense. In fact the only thing their defense has been known for in recent years is how bad they were in the Rodriguez era often times ranking low in various defensive categories.
A big reason however for Michigan’s turnaround is their strong defensive efforts led by new defensive coordinator Greg Mattison. This year Michigan is ranked 6th nationally in scoring defense and is only allowing 15.6 points per game.
Again, despite Ohio State having a down year, a complete defensive effort is going to be needed to get to Braxton Miller, stop Dan Herron and limit DeVier Posey.
Balanced running attack featuring Fitz Toussaint
There’s no question that Denard Robinson can make a lot of plays happen on his feet, however the problem is Ohio State should have a game plan in place to stop a running attack that only features him. With that said, Michigan needs to get a balanced running attack that features Fitz Toussaint who has had an excellent season thus far taking over as the team’s top rusher.
Predictions
At first glance it would seem that Michigan has a big advantage coming into today’s game against the Buckeyes. They’ve got the momentum, the better head coach, the better season and a lot more to play for. However the Buckeyes know that a win against Michigan can put a whole new light on next year as they look to welcome in Urban Meyer as their new head coach. Still, the seven game winning streak for Ohio State comes to an end today thanks to a big defensive effort by the Wolverines. Michigan wins 24-17
Ref: Detroit News, Detroit Free Press, MGoBlue.com, Zimbio (image)