How to Bet ‘The Game‘: Breaking Down All the Angles of Ohio State-Michigan
ANN ARBOR, Mich. – As college football’s most heated rivalry heads to the gridiron, sportsbooks are bracing for a deluge of action on “The Game” between Ohio State and michigan. With Ohio State currently favored by 9.5 points, a deep dive into the matchup reveals compelling arguments for both sides of the wager, alongside key betting trends that could influence outcomes.
This year’s contest isn’t simply about bragging rights or a potential College football playoff berth; it’s a statistical clash of titans. Ohio State’s defensive prowess, particularly in the red zone, presents a critically important hurdle for a Michigan offense reliant on consistent, methodical drives. Understanding these underlying factors, alongside historical betting patterns, is crucial for informed wagering.
Ohio State’s defensive profile suggests an ability to stifle opponents.They’ve allowed onyl 19 total opponent red zone trips,conceding touchdowns on just seven of those occasions in 12 games. This red zone efficiency alone dramatically impacts game scripts, forcing Michigan to consistently achieve touchdowns to remain competitive. Further bolstering this claim, the Buckeyes rank sixth in run-defense grade and seventh in tackling – critical components when facing a Michigan offense predicated on establishing a 4-yard rushing baseline.
Statistical comparisons further highlight the disparity.Ohio State outperforms Michigan in key metrics including points per play, yards per play, passing success, drive efficiency, and EPA. The Buckeyes possess multiple avenues to cover the 9.5-point spread, including explosive passing plays to Marvin Smith and Carnell Tate (both expected to return from injury), red zone dominance, defensive stops, early-down efficiency, and capitalizing on potential Michigan turnovers that could force the Wolverines to play from behind and pass more frequently.
Key Betting Trends to Consider:
* Michigan has covered the spread in four consecutive games against ohio State, all resulting in outright victories, with three instances as the underdog.This streak ties the longest in the series as the FBS/FCS split, with Ohio State previously achieving a four-game streak from 1986-1989.
* As the start of last season, Ohio State boasts an 8-1 ATS record against ranked teams, the third-best in the FBS (minimum five games), trailing only Arizona State (7-0) and Boston College (6-0).
* The over has hit in seven straight meetings in this series played at Michigan, dating back to 2011.
* Michigan is 0-3 ATS since 2019 when designated as a home underdog of 7-plus points, with a significant point differential of -29.3 PPG.
* Ohio State has a strong 10-3 ATS record in November or later since the start of last season, second only to Arizona State (9-1) among Power 4 teams.
