Michigan vs. Ohio State: The Rivalry's Biggest Upsets and Unforgettable Moments

The Michigan-Ohio State football rivalry is one of the most iconic and intense in college football history. Spanning over a century, the two teams have clashed on the gridiron, producing some of the most unforgettable moments in sports history. In this article, we'll take a look at the biggest upsets and moments that have made this rivalry so legendary.

Michigan-Ohio State is more than just a football game; it's a battle of wills, a clash of titans, and a fight for supremacy in the Big Ten Conference. The two teams have been rivals since 1897, with the winner of the game often determining the Big Ten champion and even the national title. The intense media coverage, passionate fans, and high stakes have contributed to a rivalry that's as much about bragging rights as it is about football.

The rivalry has produced some of the greatest upsets in college football history, with Ohio State pulling off several stunning victories over the years. In addition to the biggest upsets, we'll also look at some of the most memorable moments in Michigan-Ohio State history, including game-winning touchdowns, bone-jarring hits, and a few even more unforgettable moments.

The Biggest Upsets

Ohio State has pulled off several shocking victories over the years, but one of the most memorable upsets came in 2002 when the Buckeyes came from behind to defeat the Wolverines 27-25 in triple overtime.

Here are some of the biggest upsets in Michigan-Ohio State history:

• 2002: Ohio State 27, Michigan 25 (triple overtime)
• 2012: Ohio State 42, Michigan 41
• 2014: Ohio State 42, Michigan 28
• 2016: Ohio State 21, Michigan 17

These upsets have had a significant impact on the rivalry, with Ohio State often emerging as the villain in the eyes of Michigan fans. However, the Buckeyes have also been the beneficiaries of some incredible comebacks and upset victories over the years.

The Most Memorable Moments

In addition to the biggest upsets, the Michigan-Ohio State rivalry has produced some of the most unforgettable moments in college football history. Here are a few of the most memorable moments:

The Cradle of Coaches

Michigan and Ohio State have produced some of the greatest coaches in college football history. The two schools have produced legendary coaches like Bo Schembechler, Woody Hayes, and Lloyd Carr, among others. The rivalry has seen some of the greatest coaching battles in history, with the two teams often producing incredible matchups.

Here are a few of the most notable coaching matchups in Michigan-Ohio State history:

• 1982: Woody Hayes vs. Bo Schembechler
• 1992: Lloyd Carr vs. John Cooper
• 2006: Lloyd Carr vs. Jim Tressel

Game-Winning Touchdowns

Michigan and Ohio State have produced some of the most memorable game-winning touchdowns in college football history. Here are a few of the most notable ones:

• 1987: Terry Clark's touchdown run (Michigan)
• 1992: Desmond Howard's kickoff return (Michigan)
• 2004: Chris Perry's touchdown run (Michigan)

Bone-Jarring Hits

The Michigan-Ohio State rivalry has also produced some of the most bone-jarring hits in college football history. Here are a few of the most notable ones:

• 2001: A&M's Mike Williams and Bo Schembechler's treatment of Brian Griese
• 2002: Mike Nugent's kickoff return and ensuing hit on Mike Leach (Ohio State)
• 2013: Jordan Reid's helmet-to-helmet hit on Devin Funchess (Ohio State)

Other Unforgettable Moments

The Michigan-Ohio State rivalry has produced some of the most unforgettable moments in college football history. Here are a few of the most notable ones:

• 1996: The infamous " Woody Hayes-Cheeseburger" incident
• 2003: The controversy surrounding the SlingHorse incident
• 2011: The spat between Greg Robinson and John Cooper

The Impact on the Rivalry

The Michigan-Ohio State rivalry has had a significant impact on both programs, with the two teams often producing incredible matchups and memorable moments. However, the rivalry has also had its share of controversy and drama over the years.

In recent years, the rivalry has taken on a more intense and personal tone, with players and coaches often engaging in heated exchanges and trash talk. However, despite the intensity of the rivalry, the two programs have maintained a strong sense of respect and camaraderie.

In conclusion, the Michigan-Ohio State rivalry is one of the most iconic and intense in college football history. With its rich history, memorable moments, and biggest upsets, the rivalry is sure to continue to produce some of the most unforgettable moments in sports history.

Ultimately, the Michigan-Ohio State rivalry is more than just a football game; it's a battle of wills, a clash of titans, and a fight for supremacy in the Big Ten Conference. The two teams will continue to clash on the gridiron, producing some of the most memorable moments in college football history.