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One of the greatest rivalries in all of college sports is facing off Saturday, Nov. 26 at The Shoe. Before Ohio State hosts TTUN for the first time since 2018, let’s discuss the history of the rivalry and stats ahead of the showdown.
History of “The Game” 🏈
- Animosity began between Ohio and Michigan from 1835 to 1836 when the states disputed over the strip of land running from Toledo to Indiana. President Andrew Jackson had to mediate by giving Ohio that land in exchange for giving Michigan the Upper Peninsula.
- OSU and TTUN first played in 1897 and played every year, uninterrupted from 1918-2020 when there was no game due to COVID-19. OSU hosts even years while TTUN hosts odd years.
- The Buckeyes have won 17 of the past 20 matchups + the Wolverines have not won in Columbus since 2000.
Stats this season 📈
- Ohio State is ranked No. 2 while TTUN is ranked No. 3 in the College Football Playoff rankings.
- With both teams being 11-0, this is the first time since 2006 both teams are undefeated heading into The Game.
- DraftKings has Ohio State as a 7.5-point favorite while FanDuel has the over/under at 57.5 points.

Place your game day preorder for stuffed buckeyes online at thebuckeyelady.com. | Photo via @thebuckeyelady
Rivalry week traditions ❌
- Every year, Ohio State fans across Columbus cross out every sighting of the letter “M” with red duct tape from street signs to menus to campus buildings.
- Buckeyes are the most traditional game-day dessert, and you can find some at spots like Anthony-Thomas Chocolates and The Buckeye Lady + buckeye-flavored donuts from Buckeye Donuts.
Bonus: ESPN’s College GameDay will be live from St. John Arena from 9 a.m.-12 p.m. Saturday and FOX’s Big Noon Kickoff will be live outside of the RPAC. Both pregame shows are free and open to the public.