No. 2 Ohio State hosts Michigan in a crucial rivalry matchup on Saturday
Sharp money has moved the line from Ohio State -23.5 to -19.5
Read below for our Michigan vs Ohio State prediction, updated odds and player props
The greatest rivalry in college football takes center stage once again as the Michigan Wolverines (6-5) travel to Columbus to face the No. 2 ranked Ohio State Buckeyes (10-1) on Saturday, November 30th. Known simply as “The Game,” this matchup is always the most anticipated on both teams’ schedules, regardless of rankings or records.
The betting market has been buzzing with activity. After opening as 23.5-point favorites, the Buckeyes now sit at -19.5 over the Wolverines. FOX will broadcast this rivalry showdown at noon ET, with millions expected to tune in nationwide.
Ohio State enters this contest with a chance to clinch a spot in the Big Ten Championship Game and keep their College Football Playoff hopes alive. Meanwhile, Michigan looks to play spoiler and salvage a disappointing season under first-year head coach Sherrone Moore.
Michigan vs Ohio State Prediction
Despite their lackluster record, the Wolverines have shown flashes of their championship form, especially on defense. Michigan ranks in the top 10 nationally in yards per rush allowed and has stifled opponents’ ground games in recent weeks. However, they face their toughest test yet against an OSU offense averaging over 37 points per game.
The Buckeyes are led by transfer quarterback Will Howard, who has thrown for 2,685 yards and 26 touchdowns. His top target, Emeka Egbuka, needs just 150 receiving yards to crack Ohio State’s all-time top five.
But Michigan’s pass rush, spearheaded by edge rusher Josaiah Stewart, could cause problems for Howard, especially with the Buckeyes dealing with injuries on the offensive line.
Weather could also play a factor, with forecasts calling for temperatures in the 20s and strong winds. This may force both teams to rely more heavily on the run game, which could benefit Michigan.
Senior running back Donovan Edwards has been a bright spot, rushing for 832 yards and 11 touchdowns. He gashed Ohio State for 200+ yards in Columbus two years ago.
Smart money also speaks volumes here. Sharp bettors have backed Michigan, driving the line down from Ohio State -23.5 to -19.5. The combination of the Wolverines’ stout defense and the potential for inclement weather makes the underdog an enticing plus-money bet.
While the Buckeyes are clearly the more talented team, rivalry games often defy expectations. The influx of sharp money on Michigan makes me believe this could be closer than the spread indicates.
I’m picking Michigan +19.5 as the best bet, banking on Wink Martindale’s defense to keep it within three scores and Donovan Edwards to find success on the ground in the inclement weather.
Prediction: Michigan +19.5 (-110)
For more CFB picks and analysis, check out my Week 14 ATS Picks article.
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