ANN ARBOR, Mich. — The Michigan Wolverines’ recent dominance over the Ohio State Buckeyes has come to an abrupt end. In a decisive matchup on November 29, 2025, Ohio State secured a 27-9 victory at Michigan Stadium, marking a significant shift in the longstanding rivalry. The defeat not only halted Michigan’s four-game winning streak against the Buckeyes, but it also raised important questions about the future direction of the Wolverines’ football program.
Throughout the game, Michigan’s players huddled at midfield, ensuring that Ohio State would not attempt to replicate last season’s controversial flag-planting ceremony on the Block M logo. Yet, as the Buckeyes celebrated their victory—making snow angels and high-fiving fans—it became clear that Michigan’s defense was unable to protect its home turf.
“We can’t let that happen,” said Michigan running back Bryson Kuzdzal. “We didn’t know if they were going to or not, but if they were trying to, they were not going to succeed.” Despite their pre-game determination, it was Ohio State that made the stronger statement on the field.
With this victory, the No. 1 Buckeyes not only clinched a spot in the College Football Playoff but also underscored their talent advantage over No. 15 Michigan. The Wolverines, now at a disappointing 9-3 record, will miss the playoffs for the second consecutive year. While the team maintained a presence in the rankings due to a relatively weak Big Ten schedule, they failed to demonstrate the caliber expected of a top-tier team.
The narrative surrounding Michigan had been one of toughness and physicality, emphasizing their success in recent seasons. However, coach Sherrone Moore acknowledged the need for introspection following this loss. “Nine wins are great a lot of places, but we want to be better,” he stated, reflecting on the gap between Michigan and the elite teams in college football.
In a game where Michigan aimed to establish its running game, injuries hampered their efforts significantly. The team’s leading running back, Justice Haynes, was sidelined with a foot injury, and his replacement, Jordan Marshall, struggled with a shoulder issue. After a promising start, Marshall was forced to leave the game, leaving the Wolverines with limited offensive options.
The Wolverines’ inability to adapt was evident as they fell behind. Center Greg Crippen noted, “When you face the No. 1 defense in the country and you’re kind of one-dimensional, it puts a lot of pressure on the other guys.” Michigan’s reliance on the run game became a liability, particularly when they could not effectively transition to a passing game.
Freshman quarterback Bryce Underwood, who had been a significant investment for the Wolverines, faced a tough introduction to the rivalry. Michigan’s decision to heavily invest in a top prospect raised questions about their offensive strategy. Underwood finished the game with just 63 passing yards, one interception, and no touchdown drives, leading to scrutiny over the decision to limit his involvement in the game.
Moore expressed disappointment in the game plan that saw the Wolverines attempt only five passes in the first half. “That wasn’t the plan,” he explained. “We wanted to be balanced in what we did. But when you’re successful in the run game like that, that’s what you want to do.” This reliance on the run game, despite its lack of effectiveness, ultimately hindered Michigan’s ability to respond to the Buckeyes’ lead.
As the offseason approaches, Moore faces the challenge of recalibrating the Wolverines’ approach. With promising young talent, including Underwood, Marshall, and wide receiver Andrew Marsh, the focus must shift towards building a more versatile offense. The loss to Ohio State serves as a stark reminder that the Wolverines can no longer rely solely on their past successes.
After the game, players reflected on Moore’s impact on team culture. Linebacker Jimmy Rolder noted, “I think he tried to keep the culture the same, and I think he’s done a great job so far.” While it is commendable to maintain successful traditions, the changing landscape of college football demands adaptation.
As Michigan moves forward from this defeat, the program must confront the reality that their previous strategies may no longer be sufficient. The end of their winning streak against Ohio State highlights the need for a reassessment of their identity and tactics. With the right adjustments, the Wolverines can aim to regain their competitive edge in the coming seasons.
