Urban Meyer, the former Ohio State head coach who never lost to Michigan during his tenure, cautioned the Buckeyes against complacency ahead of Saturday’s high-stakes showdown.
While Ohio State enters the rivalry game as heavy 21-point favorites against a struggling Michigan team, Meyer emphasized the Wolverines’ potential to surprise.
“The minute someone says the Wolverines have bad players, you’re out of your mind,” Meyer said on The Herd with Colin Cowherd.
“They got excellent players, like you just said. They’ve had some quarterback issues, but quarterback can get fixed in a game.”
This year’s matchup comes with a stark contrast to recent history.
Michigan has claimed the last three meetings, but this time, Ohio State holds a significant edge.
Ranked No. 2 in the nation, the Buckeyes boast a dominant record and face a 6-5 Michigan squad ranked 128th in total offense among 133 FBS teams.
Compounding Michigan’s challenges, 13 of their players were drafted into the NFL since last year’s victory over Ohio State.
Despite the lopsided narrative, Meyer expressed confidence in the Buckeyes’ focus and discipline.
“I guarantee you there’s too much respect in that locker room at Ohio State,” he continued. “I know the coaching staff … You just work your tail off and find a way to win this game.
“So regardless of what the media says, the point spread, it doesn’t matter.”
Michigan’s season has been defined by offensive struggles, particularly in the passing game.
Without quarterback J.J. McCarthy, backup Davis Warren has struggled, posting seven interceptions to just six passing touchdowns while averaging 152.0 passing yards per game.
To have any chance on Saturday, Michigan will need standout performances from running backs Kalel Mullings and Donovan Edwards.
Meanwhile, a defense anchored by Mason Graham and Josaiah Stewart must rise to the occasion against Ohio State’s high-powered offense.
With Michigan’s backs against the wall and Ohio State chasing a playoff berth, Saturday promises to deliver drama despite the apparent mismatch on paper.
Meyer’s warning serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of rivalry games, especially ones as intense as this one.
After all, they don’t call it “The Game” for nothing.
What are your thoughts on Meyer’s comments?
More importantly, what’s your prediction for the game? … Do you give Michigan ANY shot at pulling off the massive upset???
