No. 1 Ohio State into the Big Ten Championship, sophomore quarterback Julian Sayin orchestrated a masterful performance, leading the Buckeyes to a commanding 27-9 victory over No. 15 Michigan on November 29 at snow-dusted Michigan Stadium. Sayin’s 233 passing yards and three touchdowns weren’t just stats—they were the spark that reignited Columbus’ fire, ending Michigan’s reign and booking Ohio State’s ticket to face Indiana in Indianapolis.
The game started rocky for Sayin, with an early interception on his second pass gifting Michigan a quick 6-0 lead via field goals. But the redshirt freshman from Carlsbad, California—recruited as the No. 1 QB in the 2024 class—rebounded with poise. He connected on a 35-yard go-route bomb to Jeremiah Smith on fourth-and-5 to seize the lead, followed by a 4-yard strike to Brandon Inniss before halftime and a 50-yard dagger to Carnell Tate in the third, his longest against Michigan since 2019. Ohio State’s defense, anchored by two interceptions and relentless pressure on Wolverines QB Bryce Underwood, held Michigan to 163 total yards—their lowest output of the season.
Postgame, as confetti fell and Buckeyes fans stormed the field (respecting the midfield “M” this time, unlike last year’s skirmish), Sayin stepped to the mic for Fox Sports’ Tom Rinaldi. His voice steady but eyes glistening, he delivered a raw tribute that encapsulated the weight of “The Game”: “This isn’t just about beating Michigan—it’s about every fan who believed when we doubted, every practice in the cold, every scar from the losses. Ohio State fights because Columbus fights. We’re unbreakable because you’re unbreakable. Thank you—for carrying us home.” The 28-word message, unscripted and heartfelt, drew roars from the traveling faithful and silence from stunned Ann Arbor reporters, underscoring Sayin’s growth from highly touted prospect to locker-room leader.
Head coach Ryan Day, who called the prior four defeats to Michigan “the worst days of my life,” savored the exhale. “Julian showed why he’s the guy—resilient, explosive, our heart,” Day said. “This program’s exhale starts now.” The win caps Ohio State’s perfect 12-0 regular season (9-0 Big Ten), their first undefeated slate since 2012, and vaults Sayin into Heisman contention alongside Indiana’s Fernando Mendoza. Michigan (9-3, 7-2), meanwhile, limps to a bowl bid, their playoff dreams dashed.
Sayin’s journey—from backing up Will Howard to stepping up amid injuries—mirrors Ohio State’s ethos of relentless pursuit. As the Buckeyes eye a repeat national title push, this victory isn’t mere redemption; it’s a manifesto. In Columbus, belief isn’t optional—it’s the fuel that turns underdogs into dynasties.
For highlights and analysis, check ESPN or the official Ohio State athletics site. What’s next for the Buckeyes? A Big Ten title clash that could crown the playoff’s top seed.
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