Big Ten Game of the Year: No. 3 Michigan vs. No. 2 Ohio

The game of the year in the Big Ten and the nation takes place Saturday in Columbus, Ohio when No. 3 Michigan takes on No. 2 Ohio State. Should Michigan prevail, the Wolverines will have the inside track on reaching the College football playoff. Ohio State’s road is a bit trickier, thanks to its defeat at the hands of Penn State earlier this year. But if the Buckeyes beat Michigan convincingly enough, Ohio State may impress enough voters to also earn a spot in the playoffs, regardless of if the Buckeyes play in the Big Ten championship game.

Michigan rebounded from its lone defeat of the season against Iowa with a 20-10 victory over Indiana on Saturday. The Wolverines struggled without starting quarterback Wilton Speight, who was sidelined with an injury as backup signal caller John O’Korn threw for only 59 yards and no scores. Running back De’Veon Smith gave the offense some spark as he ran for 158 yards and two touchdowns, helping the Wolverines stave off the upset.

Ohio State had its difficulties last week against Michigan State, winning 17-16 after the Spartans failed to convert a two-point attempt rather than opting for an extra point late that would have most likely tied the game. The Buckeyes’ offense had their problems as quarterback J.T. Barrett threw for only 86 yards and a touchdown. Ohio State did manage to do some damage on the ground as running back Mike Weber gained 111 yards on 14 carries and a score while Barrett added 105 yards on 24 carries. Ohio State will need to find its improve its aerial production if the Buckeyes are to put a dent in Michigan’s prolific defense.

Kickoff time: 12 p.m. ET
TV and radio: ABC, Local listings
Point spread: Ohio State is favored by 7 points, according to scores and odds.
Tickets: Tickets are available on the secondary market at Stubhub.com.

Photo by Ken Lund via Flickr Commons