Michigan Football: 5 questions with an Ohio State expert

The battle between Michigan football and Ohio State is one day away and as we look ahead, here are five questions we asked of an expert on the Buckeyes.

When it comes to Michigan football and Ohio State, The Game is always big and this year is no different. The Big Ten East is on the line as well as both teams hopes for making the College Football Playoff.

Michigan football comes into the game as the fourth-ranked team in the playoff rankings, while Ohio State is ranked 10th. Both teams are 10-1 and Ohio State comes in having won six straight games against the Wolverines. Urban Meyer hasn’t lost to Michigan. Jim Harbaugh, on the other hand, hasn’t beaten Ohio State.

In trying to get a better understanding from the other side of the rivalry, we caught up with the Ohio State expert from FanSided’s Scarlet and Game, Charlie Lockhart and asked him five questions about The Game:

1. Michigan fans are nervous because of the bad history recently, but how nervous are Ohio State fans this week?

I sense that Buckeye Nation is very nervous, and for good reason. This year’s Michigan team appears to be Jim Harbaugh’s best with few weaknesses if any. Combine that with Ohio State’s inconsistent play and you can see why the fans are nervous.

2. This is a really big game like in 2016, how does this matchup compare to that one and will it live up to the hype?  

It will definitely live up to the hype because the Buckeyes will bring their “A” game and the Wolverines are strong. Ohio State is ranked No. 10 and only has a slim chance at making the playoff, so ruining Michigan’s chances would be extra special.

3. What do you think Ohio State must do to win the game?

Ohio State must slow down Michigan’s running game to have a chance. The Buckeyes have to mount enough of a rushing attack of their own to keep the strong Wolverine defense honest so Dwayne Haskins and his talented receivers can possibly do some damage. Also, the Ohio State defense has to limit big plays.

4. What does Michigan need to do in order to beat Ohio State?

The Michigan players need to keep their emotions in check and play a relatively mistake-free game. Also, coach Harbaugh should use Shea Patterson more in the running game. Ohio State has had difficulties with mobile quarterbacks.

5. Are there any aspects of Ohio State Michigan fans may be overlooking?

During the 50 years I have followed the Buckeyes, often the field position battle played a big part in determining who won “The Game”. Ohio State punter Drue Chrisman is one of the best in the country at pinning opposing teams deep in their own territory.

Two players also have the ability to take the ball to the house anytime they touch the ball. Parris Campbell hasn’t been used as often as he should have been lately so he may be under the radar of most Michigan fans. Demario McCall is finally returning kickoffs, getting more reps on offense and he too is a big play waiting to happen.

Charlie’s prediction: As is usually is the case during “The Game” I think there will be momentum swings and it will be a battle to the end. I predict a 30-27 Ohio State victory primarily due to the home field advantage and Urban Meyer’s record in close games.