The stage is set for the highly anticipated Week 13 college football showdown between the Ohio State Buckeyes and the Michigan Wolverines, commonly known as “The Game.” This year, the stakes are as high as ever, with both teams in good health and exhibiting improved defensive prowess. The victor in Saturday’s clash not only claims bragging rights in the intense Ohio State vs Michigan rivalry but also secures the likely No. 2 spot in the College Football Playoff, ensuring home-field advantage against the third-ranked team.
Bold predictions for the upcoming matchup include expectations for Ohio State quarterback Kyle McCord, who is anticipated to face challenges against Michigan’s formidable defense. McCord, despite boasting favorable season statistics, faces scrutiny for his performance under pressure. Michigan’s adept pass rush, combined with Ohio State’s pass protection vulnerabilities, could lead to McCord enduring multiple sacks and throwing an interception during the game.
On the offensive side for Ohio State, wide receiver Marvin Harrison Jr. is predicted to surpass the 100-yard mark, showcasing his exceptional talent against Michigan’s defense. Despite the downgrade in the quarterback position, Harrison Jr.’s skill set is considered a significant factor, and a heavy target share is expected to contribute to him achieving over 100 receiving yards. However, the Wolverines’ defense, known for its red-zone efficiency, may prevent Harrison Jr. from reaching the end zone.
As for Michigan’s quarterback J.J. McCarthy, who had a strong start to the season but experienced a downturn in November, predictions suggest he will finish the game with less than 200 passing yards. While McCarthy exhibited Heisman-worthy performances earlier in the season, recent performances have shown a decline in his statistical output.
The upcoming clash between Ohio State and Michigan promises high stakes, intense competition, and pivotal moments that could shape the trajectory of both teams in the College Football Playoff race.
J.J. McCarthy stats by month
| QB Rating | Completion % | TD % – INT % | YPA | |
| September | 190.4 | 79% | 9.5% – 2.9% – (10-3) | 10.2 |
| October | 213.4 | 76.6% | 12.5% – 0% – (8-0) | 11.4 |
| November | 126.5 | 63.2% | 0% – 1.5% – (0-1) | 7.9 |
It’s not all that different from last season, when his QB rating fell from 204.5 in September to 134.5 in November, while his completion rate plummeted from 71.6 percent in October to 50 percent in November 2022. Michigan took the football out of McCarthy’s hands against Penn State (7-of-8, 60 pass yards) and it’s fair to wonder if the same will happen on Saturday afternoon.
It’s also worth keeping in mind just how stout the Buckeyes’ defense has been this season. Ohio State’s opponents are averaging the lowest QB rating in college football (92) with the second-fewest passing yards per game allowed (145.3) . Against ranked opponents – Notre Dame and Penn State – Ohio State only allowed 366 total passing yards (183 pass ypg) on 67 attempts (5.46 ypa). Remarkably, opposing quarterbacks completed just 49.2 percent of passes against the Buckeyes’ defense. That’s why this will likely be another poor game for McCarthy, with Michigan relying entirely on its ground game and defense.
In the last nine Ohio State vs Michigan games, the victor has scored at least 30 points. It’s been a high-scoring rivalry game, with the two programs averaging 70.8 total points per game in each meeting since 2011. However, this year’s game feels different.
Neither quarterback matches up particularly well against the opposing defense and both teams can exploit the weaknesses of one another’s signal-callers. That creates a ground-and-pound game with long drives that end in field-goal attempts and punts with the occasional red-zone trip and a few big plays.
The Wolverines would certainly benefit from having Jim Harbaugh, but they’re still one of the best teams in college football without him. Ultimately, the team with the better defense and more consistent rushing attack on Saturday will pull out the victory. Ohio State will get a chance to take it home with a game-winning drive, but a McCord interception will seal it and secure Michigan a spot in the CFP.
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