Ohio State wants Michigan week to feel more normal. Can Ryan Day finally tame The Game?

Ohio State coach Ryan Day is focusing on Michigan following his team’s recent victory over Rutgers, underscoring the significance of the longstanding rivalry between the two schools. Ohio State has struggled against Michigan in recent years, losing four of their last eight games to the Wolverines. In response, Day and Ohio State’s leadership team, including athletic director Ross Bjork and strength coach Mickey Marotti, have implemented strategic changes aimed at improving performance against Michigan and preparing for the expanded College Football Playoff.

These changes include adjustments to the team's pace of play, management of player time, and the Rivalry Week schedule. Ohio State has emphasized maintaining consistency and incorporating lessons from their recent successful Playoff run, which concluded with a national championship win over Notre Dame. The Buckeyes are also altering traditional preparations for the Michigan game, such as moving media availabilities and adjusting practice schedules, to maintain routine.

This strategic approach aims to break Ohio State’s four-game losing streak against Michigan and secure a spot in the Big Ten