who will overlook the Michigan game now that Ohio State is going to the Rose Bowl?
For years, the annual showdown between rivals Ohio State and Michigan has been called “The Game.” Maybe this year it should be referred to as The “Just Another” Game. No. 9 Ohio State (9-2, 6-1) has already assured itself of its first spot in the Rose Bowl in 13 years after clinching at least a share of the Big Ten title and the conference’s Bowl Championship Series automatic berth with Saturday’s 27-24 overtime victory over 15th-ranked Iowa. Click to enlarge Associated Press file The first meeting in the Ohio State-Michigan rivalry between coaches Jim Tressel and Rich Rodriguez ended in a 42-7 rout by the Buckeyes on Nov. 22, 2008, in Columbus. “We told our guys they could have three hours to savor that, but when the clock strikes 12 o’clock, we know what week it is,” Coach Jim Tressel said. In other words, it’s time for the contest with the Buckeyes’ biggest rival, Michigan. The Wolverines (5-6, 1-6) have lost four in a row and six of the last seven and remain tied for last in the Bi
MARION – When it comes to the Ohio State-Michigan rivalry, the Blackfords live in a house divided. “We even have a ‘House Divided’ flag hanging on our front porch,” said Tammy Blackford, 366 Bellefontaine Ave. Tammy is a staunch Buckeyes football fan. Her husband, Mike, roots just as hard for the team up north. “We also have three children,” Tammy said. “Two of them are Ohio State fans, while the other has turned to Mike.” Regardless, they’ll enjoy it when the rivalry is renewed at noon today (ABC). “It’s just a fun day at our house,” Tammy said. “We obviously know who will win, but I have to say Michigan has a better team this year.” Mike thinks so. “Michigan will win 35-28 in overtime,” he said. If that happens, many will be surprised. Ohio State is favored by more than 10 points and comes into the clash with a 9-2 record and at least a share of the Big Ten championship. Michigan is tied for last in the conference and holds a 5-6 overall record. If the Wolverines lose, Mike Blackford
“People will overlook the Michigan game now that Ohio State is going to the Rose Bowl and that makes me mad,” Harmon said. “They’ll say this game doesn’t matter, but it does matter.” Therese Martin, of Marion, believes that as well. “This game is always exciting,” Martin said. “Any of these games are exciting.” Sources: Marion resident Richard Apthorp isn’t so sure, given the discrepancies in the teams’ records this fall.
