It had been 2,926 days since Michigan beat Ohio State in football and No. 17 Michigan used every last minute of it to end eight years of misery to beat Ohio State 40-34.
Coincidentally, the Wolverines took about eight years off the lives of those who have been waiting for this moment since 2003. With just over two minutes left to play, Michigan faced a third-and-inches on the verge of extending their 37-34 lead back to 10 points. Instead, U-M committed two fouls -- a holding call and a personal foul -- that backed up their offense 25 yards and reversed a Denard Robinson touchdown.
Ohio State was able to drive the ball some on their final drive, but could not convert a fourth down. Robinson took the victory formation and Michigan stormed to the corner of The Big House to celebrate with the fans.
A lot of credit needs to be given to both coaches. One of Brady Hoke‘s goals from the first day was to beat “Ohio” and he’s branded that into his team’s winged helmets -- as if they needed any more help. A 10-2 first season in Ann Arbor? Not too shabby at all.
Likewise, Luke Fickell has been in a tough situation all year and yet Ohio State has been in a position to win just about every game this season. Even down a touchdown with two minutes left, Ohio State had a chance to win. You’d have to have some confidence in the Buckeyes offense given that they had just drove 80 yards in five plays the drive before.
But Braxton Miller missed some crucial throws and Michigan picked off his final throw.
It’s a great win for Michigan, but an even better one for one of the best rivalries in all of football. Ohio State-Michigan will always matter, but lopsided affairs are no fun.
Now, it’s 1-0 in favor of Michigan.
And you can set that clock back to zero.
