The Wolverines benefited from having an idle week. Partially because they needed to desperately get healthy, but most importantly, because they needed to stay where they were in the rankings. Any loss would have cost them, and any win would not have been substantial enough to move the needle. The Wolverines need to almost fade into obscurity until their matchup with Ohio State.
With two games remaining against Northwestern and Maryland before the Buckeyes meet them in Ann Arbor, the Wolverines need to win the games they're supposed to win and give themselves an opportunity at the Big Ten championship. Beating Ohio State would ultimately give them that chance, and reaching the championship game would leave their destiny in their hands. For a season that has felt incredibly average, that would be a punctual statement. If Michigan football fails to beat Ohio State or has a misstep before then, that leaves the season with yet another mediocre end.
Ohio State game will determine the season, if Michigan football can get there
To think, that the Wolverines' destiny is determined by that game with Ohio State almost feels prophetic. Wouldn't it be fitting if the Buckeyes sent the Wolverines to a long-gone bowl game? Or would it be fitting if Michigan sent the Ohio State fanbase into a frenzy with yet another win against their rival? Whatever the outcome, the loser really loses.
Admittedly so, the Michigan football storylines for this season have felt like one disappointing chapter after another. Not being able to be competitive in games against USC and Oklahoma has left much to be desired. Such a soft Big Ten schedule hasn't impressed anyone on the national stage, and the fact that the Wolverines are ranked at all is a miracle. If it weren't for Penn State firing James Franklin and numerous SEC teams dismissing their respective coaches, Michigan's mediocrity would be an even greater narrative to discuss. Almost three years removed from a national championship, Michigan being at the bottom of the rankings is a fall that would cost most people greatly.
Certainly, whatever happens at the end of November is so crucial for the Michigan Wolverines. With no guarantee that the outcome will change the perspective on Michigan's season, at least for a week or so Wolverine fans can be enlightened on what the future holds.
Its no longer appealing to think about the Wolverines could be.
Could be is a phrase awfully close to isn't ready.
That November noon clock is ticking.