College Football: Ohio State vs Michigan Odds, Analysis, & Picks

One of the best rivalries in college football is back in action on Saturday afternoon in Ann Arbor as the Michigan Wolverines welcome the Ohio State Buckeyes to town for a Week 14 matchup. The kickoff is scheduled for 12 p.m. ET. Ohio State is a perfect 11-0 and won once again in Week 13, beating Rutgers 42-9. The Wolverines also emerged victorious last weekend, taking down Maryland by a score of 45-20. Read on for the Ohio State vs Michigan picks.

Odds provided by Sports Interaction.

Ohio State vs Michigan Odds

The defending national champions are a heavy -425 favorite at online betting sportsbooks. Michigan returns at +320 odds. The Buckeyes are also laying 10 points on the spread. The total for this contest sits at 44.5, and the Over has cashed in five of the last six meetings.

The Wolverines have surprisingly won four straight against their rivals. They pulled out a 13-10 victory last year in Columbus in the season finale, but Ohio State managed to bounce back and eventually win the College Football Playoff.

Ohio State vs Michigan Analysis

Despite losing a plethora of talent to the NFL, Ryan Day did a tremendous job of strengthening his team through the portal and by luring in the best recruits, and it’s paid off. Ohio State is a favorite to win another national title, and they’ve been ranked No. 1 in the country for the entirety of the season. The Buckeyes have a solid offense under QB Julian Sayin, ranking top 25 in numerous categories, including 11th in points with 37.9 per game.

However, what really sets the Buckeyes apart is their defense. This unit is 1st in fewest total yards allowed, fewest passing yards, and second in fewest rushing yards. Ohio State is also giving up a mere 7.6 PPG. They’ve looked absolutely unstoppable. But the Buckeyes always seem to play their worst against Michigan. While a loss here wouldn’t be the end of the world, it’s more about getting back on track in this fierce rivalry.

Michigan may not be a national championship contender, but they still have a shot at the CFP and the Big Ten title game with a victory here. The Wolverines are ranked No. 15 in the nation and have a 9-2 record. They’re 7-1 in Big 12 play, and Sherrone Moore’s squad has won five in a row heading into Saturday’s affair. Their only losses this season have come against USC and Oklahoma.

The Wolverines don’t stand out in any particular area. But, just like Ohio State, defense is the name of the game. While Michigan isn’t a top-five unit, they’re 17th in fewest total yards allowed, and they’re giving up just 17.9 PPG. The Wolverines also have some intriguing offensive weapons that could give the Buckeyes some trouble in Bryce Underwood, Jordan Marshall, and Andrew Marsh.

Ohio State vs Michigan Picks

I know Michigan has had Ohio State’s number in recent years, but I believe the Buckeyes will bring their best on Saturday and finally grab a victory in this rivalry. I’ll take them to cover.

Pick: Ohio State -10 (-115)/ Sports Interaction