Buckeye Rosters

Recap

Columbus, OH — Michigan clinched a decisive 45-23 victory over No. 2 Ohio State, delivering the Buckeyes their first loss of the season and securing a spot in the Big Ten Championship.

The Wolverines (12-0, 9-0 Big Ten) dominated both sides of the ball, led by a powerful offensive attack and a stifling defense that kept Ohio State’s high-powered offense in check for much of the game. Michigan secured back-to-back wins over the Buckeyes for the first time in over two decades.

Offensively, Michigan leaned heavily on its ground game, with running back Blake Corum (22 carries, 177 yards, 2 touchdowns) leading the charge. The senior back’s ability to find holes in Ohio State’s defense, combined with a punishing offensive line performance, allowed Michigan to control the clock and set the tone early. Corum’s second touchdown, a 55-yard run, gave Michigan a commanding 31-20 lead midway through the third quarter.

Quarterback J.J. McCarthy was efficient, completing 12 of 24 passes for 163 yards and a touchdown. His 6-yard touchdown pass to Colston Loveland in the second quarter helped the Wolverines extend their lead to 24-13. Despite not throwing for more than 200 yards, McCarthy’s mobility and poise in critical moments made a significant difference.

However, it was Michigan’s defense that truly stole the spotlight. The Wolverines’ defensive front overwhelmed Ohio State’s offensive line, registering six sacks and consistently pressuring Buckeyes quarterback C.J. Stroud. Defensive end Mike Morris was a standout performer, recording two sacks and forcing Stroud into multiple hurried throws. Stroud, who had thrown for over 3,500 yards during the season, was held to just 349 yards on 31-of-48 passing, with two touchdowns and one interception.

The interception came courtesy of Michigan cornerback DJ Turner, who made a crucial pick late in the third quarter, thwarting a potential Ohio State rally. The turnover gave Michigan excellent field position, and they capitalized on it with a field goal to extend their lead to 34-20.

Michigan’s defensive line was relentless, with Mazi Smith and Jalen Harrell both causing havoc in the backfield. Ohio State’s offensive line struggled to contain the Wolverines’ pass rush, and Stroud was frequently under pressure, unable to get into a rhythm.

In the final quarter, the Wolverines put the game out of reach. A 10-yard touchdown run by Donovan Edwards capped off an impressive 75-yard drive, pushing Michigan ahead 41-23. Edwards finished the game with 79 yards on just 6 carries, adding to the Wolverines’ impressive total of 252 rushing yards.

The victory over Ohio State was the crowning achievement of Michigan’s season, as they became the first team in the Big Ten to finish the regular season undefeated. The Wolverines will head to Indianapolis for the Big Ten Championship, where they will face Purdue for a chance to secure a spot in the College Football Playoff.