Michigan Football: Most Heartbreaking Losses

Oct 17, 2015; Columbus, OH, USA; The Ohio State Buckeyes mascot Brutus performs before the start of the game against the Penn State Nittany Lions at Ohio Stadium. Mandatory Credit: James Lang-USA TODAY Sports

#1 vs. #2

The Wolverines and Buckeyes had gone perfect through 11 games and met as No. 2 and No. 1, respectively, in the final regular season finale. It was the first time the two teams had ever met as No. 1 and No. 2.

The winner was pretty much guaranteed a spot in the BCS National Championship, while the loser was to be left in the shadow.

It was a true shootout, with the two teams combining for 81 points and 900 yards of total offense. Ohio State went into the fourth quarter with a 35-24 lead over the Wolverines.

A two-yard Mike Hart touchdown run and 16-yard Tyler Ecker touchdown reception sandwiched the Buckeyes’ only points of the fourth quarter, a 13-yard score from Troy Smith to Brian Robiskie.

Michigan was also helped back into the game with turnovers. The Wolverines forced three of them (two in the second half) and didn’t commit any themselves.

In the end, though, Ohio State was able to run out the clock and ensured itself a berth in the national championship game.

This loss wasn’t devestating or heartbreaking because of a dramatic ending. If felt that way because there was so much on the line, and Michigan came that close to overcoming the odds on the road against Ohio State.

Relive it, if you dare.

Next: Ohio State, 2013