1897 Ohio State football team

1897 Michigan football team

1897 Michigan football team

The ongoing rivalry between The Ohio State University and the University of Michigan was established the first time the teams went head-to-head in 1897. Since that game, an enduring battle of athleticism has grown to form one of college football’s greatest rivalries. The pendulum swings of victory and defeat between the two teams has created high anticipation for each year’s matchup.

It’s not just a blood battle on the field

“Ohio State/Michigan Week” has grown beyond the football game to include the annual blood battle, which benefits the Red Cross, food collection for food banks, and spirit events such as banner contests. OSU and UM have turned the rivalry into an event that helps people across school lines.

1969 and 1970 photo galleries
In 1969 Ohio State entered the game ranked number 1 in the nation, and the clear favorite to be crowned National Champion at the end of the season. Michigan, ranked 12th with two losses, handed the Buckeyes their first loss of the season in Ann Arbor 24-12. The victory earned them a trip to the Rose Bowl. Click here to view the photo gallery.
 The 1970 season for Ohio State was all about revenge. To motivate the players, a large rug was placed at the entrance to their practice field which read, “1969 – Michigan 24, Ohio State 12; 1970 – Michigan ?, Ohio State ?”
The Buckeyes were ranked 5th nationally, and the Wolverines were ranked 4th. Plus, each team’s record was unblemished before the clash at Ohio Stadium. The Buckeyes followed through with their season-long goal, beating Michigan 20-9 while Ohio State Head Coach Woody Hayes would later call the game, “the greatest defensive game that our team had ever had.” Click here to view the photo gallery.
 FANS AND GAME DAY GALLERY

WHETHER ONE ROOTS FOR OHIO STATE OR THE UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN, FANS WILL APPRECIATE A LOOK BACK AT THE MEMORABILIA SURROUNDING THE RIVALRY. CLICK HERE TO VIEW THE PHOTO GALLERY.