First, Ohio State’s 2024 squad, while potentially strong, was not the same team as the 2023 version that faced Michigan. In 2023, Michigan demonstrated remarkable dominance with an impressive blend of talent, experience, and coaching. Their 45-23 win over Ohio State in the final game of the regular season was a clear reflection of their superiority on the field. Michigan’s offense was dynamic, featuring a powerful rushing attack led by Blake Corum and Donovan Edwards, along with a poised quarterback in J.J. McCarthy, who made crucial plays when needed.
In contrast, Ohio State’s 2023 team showed weaknesses, particularly in its inability to stop Michigan’s rushing attack. Despite having elite talent, including Marvin Harrison Jr. and a strong defensive front, Ohio State failed to match Michigan’s physicality in key moments, especially in the trenches. Michigan’s defense also neutralized Ohio State’s passing game, with the Buckeyes struggling to find consistency under pressure.
Looking ahead to 2024, Ohio State will need to significantly improve its offensive and defensive balance to overcome Michigan. The 2023 Michigan squad is built on a culture of physical football, depth, and maturity that was evident throughout the season. It’s unreasonable to assume that a 2024 Ohio State team, which has yet to prove itself, would have been able to outperform a 2023 Michigan squad that executed at a high level across the board.
Until Ohio State shows it can answer the physical challenges and strategic execution that Michigan presents, the idea of a 2024 Ohio State team beating the 2023 Michigan team remains a delusion, not grounded in the realities of football performance.
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