Beyond that, it really depends on how far the Buckeyes make it in the playoff. OSU came within a missed field goal of beating Georgia after a loss to Michigan in 2022 that would have likely ended up in a national title. The same scenario could play out this season.

Michigan has the best pass rush in the country according to PFF and the front will need to live up to that billing. OSU has a patchwork offensive line that’s held up surprisingly well. But they’ve not faced the likes of Josaiah Stewart, Mason Graham, Kenneth Grant, and Derrick Moore yet.

Three straight rivalry losses encouraged the return of Ohio State's vaunted senior class, and those seniors get their one shot at revenge on Saturday.