Former Ohio State head coach Urban Meyer, who holds an unblemished 7-0 record against Michigan, has shared a critical message ahead of Saturday’s highly anticipated matchup between the Buckeyes and Wolverines. As the No. 2-ranked Buckeyes prepare to face a struggling Michigan team, Meyer cautions against underestimating their rivals despite the Wolverines’ 6-5 record.
“The minute someone says the Wolverines have bad players, you’re out of your mind,” Meyer emphasized, pointing to Michigan’s talent and the unpredictable nature of rivalry games. Although Michigan’s offense has faltered this season—averaging just 140 passing yards per game—Meyer stressed that issues like quarterback play can change in a single game.
Ohio State, riding high at 10-1 with two top-five wins, enters the game as a 19.5-point favorite—a rare point spread in the storied rivalry. However, Meyer highlighted the importance of focus and preparation. “There’s too much respect in that locker room at Ohio State. I know the coaching staff. You just work your tail off and find a way to win this game. The point spread doesn’t matter,” he stated.
For Michigan, their strategy hinges on controlling the clock with a run-heavy offense while relying on their defense to limit Ohio State’s high-powered attack. Meanwhile, Ohio State head coach Ryan Day faces immense pressure to end a three-game losing streak against Michigan, making this a must-win game to reassert dominance in the rivalry and achieve one of the team’s key goals this season.
As the two teams prepare to clash, Meyer’s warning serves as a reminder that anything can happen when these historic rivals meet on the field.
