In the intricate tapestry of college football rivalries, the animosity between Michigan and Ohio State fans is well-documented, but according to former coach Urban Meyer, their fierce competition is an indispensable dynamic.
Speaking to Toledo Blade columnist Dave Briggs, Meyer delved into the all-encompassing nature of the Michigan-Ohio State rivalry, describing it as something that “occupies every second of your being.” He emphasized the pervasive influence, stating, “When I tell people that, some people believe it, others are like, ‘c’mon.’ But it does, from the second you wake up to when you go to bed. That’s reality when you’re involved in that rivalry.”
Despite the intense rivalry and mutual disdain, Meyer highlighted a symbiotic relationship between the two programs. “One program can’t survive without the other,” he asserted. He chuckled at the notion that the Big Ten’s suspension of Jim Harbaugh could lead to Michigan’s departure from the conference, dismissing it with a firm “no” and urging a stop to such speculations. According to Meyer, the survival of these programs is intricately tied to the existence of their rival counterpart.
More Urban Meyer on Ohio State-Michigan: “One program can't survive without the other. I laughed when I heard the Big Ten suspended Jim Harbaugh and people said, ‘They're looking to leave the Big Ten.’ That's … no. .. stop it.” https://t.co/cTEGXv1EuD
— Dave Briggs (@DBriggsBlade) January 18, 2024
The recent success of Michigan, securing three consecutive victories over Ohio State and clinching its first national championship since 1997, intensifies the pressure on Ryan Day, Meyer’s successor, as the 2024 season looms.
Amid this backdrop, Ohio State’s top players have announced their return to school, laying the groundwork for a potentially monumental season in Columbus. The stakes are undeniably high for Day, who faces immense expectations in steering the Buckeyes to success in the upcoming season. The enduring narrative of this historic rivalry adds an extra layer of intensity, ensuring that every play and decision carries weight for both programs.