Not the end of the Mich - OSU Rivalry Game

by Mo Johnson
(VA )

I agree it will damage the game. But, it's not the end. The Big Ten will still have Ohio State and Michigan end the season playing each other. But, you are right that the game will not be as significant in most years. The reason is that both teams will likely have already settled their fate (i.e. already clinched their position in their respective divisions) or maybe they will each be winning their divisions -- in which case -- they'll just meet again the next week for the Big Ten Championship. Obviously that second match-up being the more significant.

So, it is a blow to that great rivalry game "The Game."

But,I think the Big Ten had to do it. Too much money to not play that championship game. Also, many Big Ten fans thought the conference elite teams suffered in comparison to other conferences because of playing one less week. So, hurt them in the bowl season. Maybe.

But, anyway, you are essentially right that the Big Ten division split is a negative for the end of season Mich - OSU game.