The stakes couldn't be higher: Ohio State and Michigan are locked in a battle that will not only shape their seasons but potentially rewrite college football history! This legendary rivalry, simply known as 'The Game,' is always intense, but today's clash has College Football Playoff implications hanging in the balance. Buckle up, because this is more than just a game; it's a collision course with destiny!
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We're bringing you live updates, electrifying highlights, and expert analysis as Ohio State and Michigan add another unforgettable chapter to 'The Game.' This isn't just about bragging rights; it's about securing a coveted spot in the expanded 12-team College Football Playoff.
Nov 29, 2025 at 1:04 pm ET • 1 min read
'The Game' has witnessed it all – incredible comebacks, heartbreaking defeats, and unforgettable moments. But this year is different. For the first time ever, both Michigan and Ohio State are fighting tooth and nail for playoff positioning when they collide today inside the iconic Michigan Stadium. The atmosphere is absolutely electric!
No. 1 Ohio State (11-0) is practically guaranteed a postseason berth. But No. 15 Michigan (9-2) needs a victory against their arch-rival to even have a chance at making the 12-team playoff field. A win for the Wolverines would not only mark their second consecutive upset in this storied series but, even more stunningly, would give them a five-game winning streak – something they haven't accomplished since the roaring 1920s! Can you imagine the celebrations in Ann Arbor if they pull that off?
Last season, the Wolverines shocked the college football world with a nail-biting 13-10 victory at Ohio State, effectively knocking the Buckeyes out of the Big Ten title game. But here's where it gets controversial... That loss seemed to motivate Ohio State, fueling an inspiring playoff run that culminated in a national championship. Talk about turning a negative into a positive! Ohio State coach Ryan Day has built an impressive record overall, but Michigan remains a persistent thorn in his side. His record against the Wolverines is 1-4, while he boasts a dominant 52-1 record against the rest of the Big Ten. Is Michigan truly Day's kryptonite?
Kickoff is set for noon ET on Saturday, and you definitely don't want to miss a single second. Keep it locked right here as CBS Sports provides you with real-time updates, dazzling highlights, and insightful analysis as Ohio State clashes with Michigan on the gridiron. We'll break down every key play and turning point as it happens.
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Ohio State moving as second quarter begins
End 1Q: Michigan 6, Ohio State 3
The yardage is now even at 85 yards apiece. As the second quarter gets underway, the Buckeyes will have a second down with the ball on Michigan's side of the field. The first quarter was packed with drama. Michigan started strong with a huge run, followed by a rare interception thrown by Ohio State's star quarterback, Julian Sayin – a mistake Michigan capitalized on with a field goal.
And this is the part most people miss... Michigan's defense showed incredible resilience inside their own 5-yard line, holding strong on four consecutive plays and forcing Ohio State to settle for a short field goal. That kind of goal-line stand can be a massive momentum swing in a rivalry game.
Oh, and did we mention a player actually headbutted an official (scroll down for the video!)? 'The Game' is certainly living up to its reputation for intensity and drama so far.
Michigan holds Ohio State to field goal after headbutt
Late 1Q: Michigan 6, Ohio State 3
Michigan gifted Ohio State a first down at the 2-yard line after Jaishawn Barham received an unsportsmanlike penalty for headbutting an official. But the Wolverines' defense refused to break, holding the Buckeyes to a short field goal after the costly mistake. That's the kind of grit and determination you need to win a game like this.
Bo Jackson led the drive with a 23-yard catch and an electrifying 36-yard run, leaving a defender grasping at air with a deceptive move to the outside. Talk about making a statement!
Michigan player headbutts official
Michigan linebacker Jaishawn Barham headbutted an official and was penalized for unsportsmanlike conduct after the Wolverines' defense forced a third-and-goal situation at the 4-yard line. Interestingly, he was not ejected from the game. Should he have been? This is a point that could definitely spark debate.
Michigan extends lead following Julian Sayin's interception
Early 1Q: Michigan 6, Ohio State 0
Michigan turned Julian Sayin's interception into three points, taking a 6-0 lead on Dominic Zvada's 25-yard field goal with 9:42 remaining in the first quarter. This marks the largest deficit Ohio State has faced all season. How will they respond to this early adversity?
Julian Sayin picked off; Michigan in business again
Julian Sayin locked onto a receiver along the left side and was intercepted by Jyaire Hill on second-and-10. Michigan now has possession at Ohio State's 38-yard line. Can the Wolverines capitalize and build a two-score lead early in the game?
Michigan strikes first
Early 1Q: Michigan 3, Ohio State 0
Michigan received a huge boost from Jordan Marshall's explosive 38-yard run to open the game. However, the Wolverines' drive stalled, and they settled for a 45-yard field goal to take an early 3-0 lead. And consider this: You rarely see explosive plays against this Buckeyes defense, which typically allows only 80 rushing yards per game (and 206.6 total yards). Michigan is already exceeding expectations in that department.
Jeremiah Smith, Carnell Tate warming up
Ohio State's star receivers, Jeremiah Smith and Carnell Tate, are moving well in pregame warmups. Both players missed last week's game due to injuries and were listed as questionable heading into today. Their presence on the field could be a game-changer for the Buckeyes' offense.
Ohio State vs. Michigan prediction, picks
Predicting the outcome of this game is never easy, and last season's result makes it even more challenging to assume the Buckeyes can win by more than one touchdown, even on the road at Michigan Stadium. The statistics suggest that this Ohio State defense is even stronger than last season's. While Michigan's offense has shown flashes of brilliance, this Buckeyes defense is built to stifle opponents, allowing barely over 200 yards per game. My advice? Don't even touch the spread. Pick: Ohio State SU
Check out our experts' picks straight up and against the spread (https://www.cbssports.com/college-football/news/ohio-state-michigan-prediction-pick-odds-spread-where-to-watch-live/)
Michigan aiming for an accomplishment 99 years year in the making
Ninety-nine years ago – a time when Woody Hayes was a young man and Bo Schembechler was just a dream – Michigan pulled off a feat they haven't managed since: five consecutive victories over Ohio State.
Michigan can rewrite a century of history with another win over Ohio State -- and likely secure a spot in the CFP field
Brandon Marcello (https://www.cbssports.com/college-football/news/michigan-ohio-state-rivalry-game-history-college-football-playoff-implications/)
Nearly a century later, the No. 15 Wolverines (9-2) are on the verge of repeating that historic achievement. Bragging rights, playoff aspirations, and a chance to rewrite history are all on the line today Inside The Big House. Will they seize the moment? What is your prediction for the game? Do you think Michigan's defense can continue to contain Ohio State's explosive offense? Let us know in the comments below!
