Will Ohio State Beat Michigan This Year? And How Will They Fare Against Other Playoff Contenders?

In this year's college football season, the anticipation is high for a potential match-up between the two powerhouse teams, Ohio State and Michigan. This article will delve into the likelihood of Ohio State overcoming Michigan, and then dive into how they might fare against other top playoff contenders such as Tennessee, Alabama, Mississippi, LSU, Georgia, Oregon, and Clemson.

Ohio State vs. Michigan: A Battle of Titans

Belief in Ohio State's ability to beat Michigan this year is strong. While Michigan is undoubtedly a formidable team, Ohio State boasts a more well-rounded roster. The Buckeyes suffered last year due to a weaker defensive performance, but changes have been made, including the addition of a new defensive coordinator. This has led to a vastly improved defensive line, making it less likely for Michigan to run over Ohio State as they did last season. Furthermore, if Michigan heavily relies on quarterback J.J. McCarthy, it could spell trouble for them. The Buckeyes have clamped down on Michigan with this game on their radar, ensuring they are fully prepared to face them.

Navigating the Bowl Season and Playoff Path

To secure a spot in the playoff, Ohio State must win the Big Ten Championship. This is not an insurmountable task, as the teams they might face in the West division (likely the Illinois Fighting Illini) are not projected to be formidable opponents. Buckeye fans can look forward to a series of games against Tennessee, Alabama, Mississippi, LSU, Georgia, Oregon, Clemson, and TCU. Let's break down each potential opponent and how Ohio State might fare against them in the playoffs.

Tennessee Volunteers

The Volunteer Vols currently hold a strong position in the College Football Playoff (CFP). If they manage to defeat Georgia this weekend and remain unbeaten, they will almost certainly retain their top ranking. However, securing their playoff berth could prove challenging. A second matchup with Alabama in the SEC Championship might test their mettle. Ohio State is a strong contender to defeat Tennessee, despite both teams boasting one of the best offenses in the country. While Ohio State's defense is significantly superior, Stroud still appears to have more weapons at his disposal than Hendon Hooker. This makes for a competitive matchup, but I believe Ohio State holds the edge.

Alabama Crimson Tide

For Alabama to clinch a playoff spot, they need to win out against LSU and Ole Miss. Both of these matches pose significant challenges. If Alabama manages to remain unscathed, they must still secure a victory in the SEC Championship, either against Georgia or Tennessee, to make the playoff. While Alabama might not be the powerhouse team they once were, Ohio State should be able to overpower them. Bryce Young, despite a stellar performance, struggles with a less talented supporting cast. Additionally, Ohio State's defense will pose a formidable challenge to Alabama's potent attack. Buckeyes should prevail over the Crimson Tide.

Oregon Ducks

While Oregon is a formidable offensive team, with their sole defeat coming against Georgia, their defensive unit is not equipped to handle Ohio State's high-octane offense. A crucial factor is their consistency. If Oregon can't score at every opportunity, they won't be able to compete with Ohio State. Viewed in the context of their one-loss record, a one-loss Big Ten team like Michigan or a one-loss SEC team like Tennessee or Georgia, the Ducks are unlikely to make the playoff.

Clemson Tigers

Clemson, currently unimpressive, is best expected to cruise to their goal of making the playoff as the best team in the ACC. However, their team status is questionable due to their overall competitiveness. Without being considered elite, Clemson doesn't stack up against Ohio State. Ohio State would be heavily favored against the Tigers, likely prevailing easily.

Mississippi Rebels

Mississippi is not a playoff contender, but if Ohio State faces them in the CFP, it could be a straightforward win for the Buckeyes. They have already triumphed against better teams, and victory over the Rebels would be a clear one for Ohio State.

LSU Tigers

LSU's chances of reaching the playoffs are equally slim. While Ohio State would be favored, LSU's inconsistent performances can be exploited in key moments. A cold streak can be enough for the Buckeyes to snag a win.

TCU Horned Frogs

While TCU could theoretically make the playoffs with an undefeated record, they are not a top-tier team. Ohio State would comfortably defeat TCU, who would be satisfied just to participate.

Georgia Bulldogs

Georgia is considered the best team in the country, making it a significant challenge for Ohio State to secure a victory. However, I believe Georgia is the team most likely to win the national championship. Their defense may fluctuate but will likely manage to slow down Ohio State. On the offensive side, they are a top-tier unit capable of moving the ball against Ohio State's defense. While there's always a possibility, Ohio State would ideally play in the championship game against Georgia, with Georgia emerging as the victor.

In conclusion, despite the grueling schedule and numerous potential challenges, Ohio State is poised to be in the thick of the playoff race. Georgia, however, stands as the most formidable challenger, with Ohio State holding some slight advantages. As the football season progresses, these predictions may evolve, but the path to the championship remains a thrilling one to follow.