AI Picks this Team in America's biggest rivalry game

 Ohio State enters this year's edition of "The Game" as the clear favorite to snap Michigan's four-year winning streak in the rivalry, thanks to superior talent, depth, and momentum that have propelled the Buckeyes to an undefeated 11-0 record heading into Ann Arbor. While Michigan (9-2) has shown late-season grit with five straight wins, including a 45-20 rout of Maryland last weekend, the Wolverines' inconsistencies against elite competition—evidenced by blowout losses to Oklahoma (24-13) and USC (31-13)—suggest they won't have the firepower to match Ohio State's balance on both sides of the ball.

Chat GPT 

Good question. Here are several strong reasons why **Ohio State** could beat **Michigan** this Saturday — plus some context where things could go their way. (And of course, in rivalry games like this, anything can happen — but these are some levers OSU can pull.)

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### Key Reasons Ohio State Could Win

1. **Defense Advantage**

   * Ohio State’s defense is very strong in key areas. According to preview analysis, they can “dictate on defense” by shutting down Michigan’s running game. ([Eleven Warriors][1])

   * If OSU’s front seven plays well — especially guys like Jack Sawyer, JT Tuimoloau, Ty Hamilton — they can disrupt Michigan’s run-game, which is a major part of Michigan’s offense. ([Eleven Warriors][1])

   * They’ve been motivated: OSU veterans have “experience of losing in The Game,” which gives them something to prove. ([Eleven Warriors][2])

2. **Motivation / Revenge Factor**

   * There’s a strong emotional angle: OSU likely feels a lot of pressure to “get back” at Michigan. After past losses in this rivalry, the Buckeyes are probably very motivated. ([NBC Sports][3])

   * This isn’t just about a regular win — it’s *The Game*. Rivalry games magnify everything, and OSU knows what’s on the line historically and emotionally.

3. **Offensive Talent**

   * OSU has playmakers on offense. Their skill talent (e.g., receivers, backs) can make big plays and stretch the field, which could force Michigan’s defense to cover more ground. (While not all articles explicitly break down every OSU offensive star, their game plan could leverage this.)

   * If OSU puts together efficient drives and avoids turnovers, they can build momentum and pressure Michigan.

4. **Michigan’s Offensive Weaknesses**

   * According to analysis, Michigan’s offense has struggled in the passing game. ([Eleven Warriors][1])

   * If OSU can contain the run (as mentioned above) and make Michigan one-dimensional, they can exploit their lack of efficient production through the air.

   * Joel Klatt (FOX Sports) notes for OSU to win, their defense *must be physical*. ([FOX Sports][4])

5. **Experienced Leadership**

   * OSU has players who have “been there” in The Game before. That type of experience matters a lot in rivalry games. ([Eleven Warriors][2])

   * This experience isn’t just on the field: emotionally, the players and coaches likely have that “we’ve got to make this count” mindset, which can drive execution and discipline.

6. **Big-Picture Implications for OSU**

   * There’s a lot more than just the rivalry: winning The Game could impact playoff positioning, legacy, and momentum. That adds extra incentive for OSU to go all out.

   * For Michigan, while it’s huge too, some reports suggest their season might not carry the same weight as in previous years, which could slightly shift the risk/reward balance. ([NBC Sports][3])

### Potential Risks / What Could Go Wrong for OSU

* If Michigan’s run game gets going early, they could control the clock and tempo.

* Turnovers or poor red-zone execution could bite OSU — rivalries often come down to a few critical plays.

* If OSU’s offense is too predictable or doesn’t adapt, Michigan’s defense could key in on their strengths.

**Bottom line:** Ohio State has a real shot. Their defense, combined with motivation, experience, and playmaking, gives them a strong path to win. If they execute and limit Michigan’s strengths, they could come out on top.

Gemini 

That's the rivalry question every year!

Current predictions heavily favor Ohio State to win this Saturday's game against Michigan, which is being played on November 29, 2025. Ohio State is undefeated (11-0) and ranked No. 1, while Michigan is 9-2.

Here are the main reasons analysts and oddsmakers believe Ohio State will win, ending a four-game losing streak to the Wolverines:

1. Superior Overall Talent and Consistency

 * Best Team in the Country: Many sources state that Ohio State is simply the better team this season and has been the most dominant and consistent team in college football.

 * Motivation: After losing the last four matchups, the motivation for Ohio State—especially for head coach Ryan Day—to win this game and secure an undefeated season is immense.

2. Explosive Offensive Advantage

 * Elite Quarterback: Quarterback Julian Sayin is projected to be the best player on the field. He has been highly efficient, with a strong completion rate and high EPA (Expected Points Added) per dropback, and is expected to attack Michigan's secondary successfully.

 * Loaded Receiving Corps: Ohio State's group of pass catchers, including Jeremiah Smith, Carnell Tate, and Brandon Inniss, is considered a major mismatch for the Wolverines' defense.

 * Balanced Attack: The Buckeyes also have a strong backfield with players like James Peoples and CJ Donaldson.

3. Lockdown Defense

 * Elite Defense: Ohio State's defense, led by coordinator Matt Patricia, is considered an NFL-caliber unit. They are ranked Top-3 in rush EPA allowed and have consistently generated havoc.

 * Suffocating Play: The defense hasn't allowed more than 16 points in any game this season, suggesting Michigan will have trouble scoring and will be forced into difficult passing situations.

 * Talent at all Levels: The defense features stars like linebacker duo Arvell Reese and Sonny Styles, and defensive back Caleb Downs.

4. Michigan's Challenges

 * Need for a "Near-Perfect Game": For Michigan to win, they would likely need a near-perfect performance from their offense and quarterback Bryce Underwood, which is a tough ask against this stout Ohio State defense.

 * Playing from Behind: While Michigan's run defense is strong, if Ohio State's passing game is as explosive as predicted, Michigan will have to play catch-up, forcing their quarterback to carry the team, which is not ideal against a pass-rushing defense.

The odds currently list Ohio State as a significant favorite (ranging from -9.5 to -13.5 points).

### Key Reasons Ohio State Pulls It Out (Grok)

1. **Offensive Firepower and Balance**: The Buckeyes boast one of college football's most explosive attacks, averaging over 40 points per game and converting third downs at a nation-leading 55.8% clip. Quarterback Julian Sayin has been surgical (68.4% completion rate in recent outings), while running back TreVeyon Henderson and receiver Emeka Egbuka provide dynamic threats. Even if star wideouts Jeremiah Smith and Carnell Tate are limited by injuries, Ohio State's depth shone through in their 42-9 dismantling of Rutgers, with backup options like Max Klare stepping up for 105 yards and a score. Michigan's defense, while stout (allowing just 17.9 points per game), has struggled against spread offenses like this, and the Wolverines' own run game is hampered by injuries to backs Justice Haynes (out post-foot surgery) and Jordan Marshall (questionable).

2. **Defensive Dominance and Discipline**: Ohio State's unit ranks among the FBS elite, holding opponents to under 300 yards per game and excelling in turnover margin. They lead the nation in fewest penalties (39.3 yards per game), minimizing self-inflicted wounds in a rivalry known for chaos. Michigan's offense, led by a committee approach without its full backfield, has been one-dimensional at times, and the Buckeyes' front seven—anchored by Jack Sawyer and J.T. Tuimoloau—should disrupt any ground control the Wolverines try to establish. This edge allows Ohio State to control the clock and force Michigan into predictable passing situations.

3. **Motivation and Stakes**: A loss would end Ohio State's perfect season and jeopardize their No. 1 seed in the College Football Playoff, but coach Ryan Day is laser-focused on redemption after four straight rivalry defeats. ESPN's matchup predictor gives the Buckeyes an 82% win probability post-Week 13, factoring in their 15-game winning streak and road resilience. Michigan needs a victory for playoff contention, but as underdogs (0-2 this year), they've shown vulnerability when overmatched. Betting markets reflect this: Ohio State opened as 11.5-point favorites on FanDuel but has settled around 9.5-10 points across books like BetMGM (-375 moneyline), with public money (68%) backing the spread.

4. **Historical Trends and Intangibles**: While Michigan has owned the rivalry lately (including as 20.5-point underdogs last year), Ohio State's overall talent gap this season echoes their pre-streak dominance. The Buckeyes are 9-1 against the spread in their last 10 rivalry games when motivated like this, and FOX Sports AI projects a 27-20 Buckeye win, citing their edge in total yards (475+ per game). Weather in Ann Arbor (chilly, 35-40°F with possible light snow) favors Ohio State's versatile attack over Michigan's run-heavy identity.

In a game with playoff implications for both, expect Ohio State to grind out a 28-17 victory—enough to cover the spread, stay unbeaten, and finally plant the flag at midfield without incident. The Buckeyes' completeness overwhelms a peaking but flawed Michigan squad in what should be a statement win for the ages.

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