A few months ago, Michigan’s football team, unranked and a heavy underdog by three touchdowns, pulled off a shocking upset against Ohio State in Columbus.
In response, the Buckeyes rebounded with four consecutive double-digit victories to secure the College Football Playoff championship.
Now, the roles are reversed on the basketball court. On Sunday in Columbus, unranked Ohio State (15-10, 7-7 Big Ten) will look to disrupt No. 20 Michigan’s (19-5, 11-2) unexpected push for a conference title.
Ohio State head coach Jake Diebler emphasized the significance of the matchup.
“I don’t believe in downplaying this game or this rivalry,” Diebler said. “We’ll certainly discuss it, and there’s even an educational aspect to ensure our players understand the history behind it.
“There’s no diminishing its importance. While other factors come into play this time of year, make no mistake—this is a rivalry game, and we’re embracing everything that comes with it.”
The Wolverines climbed to the top of the conference standings on Tuesday with their fifth consecutive victory, edging out No. 7 Purdue 75-73. First-year head coach Dusty May is aiming for a remarkable turnaround, leading Michigan from the bottom of the standings last season (8-24, 3-17 Big Ten under Juwan Howard) to a potential conference title.
“We have some tough challenges ahead,” May said. “But it’s exciting to be playing highly meaningful games in mid-February, competing for a championship against some of the best programs, coaches, and players in college basketball.”
Adding to the intensity of the rivalry, May and Michigan junior guard Roddy Gayle Jr. bring intriguing storylines.
May was rumored to be a leading candidate for the Ohio State head coaching job after Chris Holtmann’s dismissal in February 2024, before Jake Diebler stepped in as interim coach.
After leading Ohio State to a 6-2 record, including a strong showing in the Big Ten tournament, Jake Diebler was officially named the Buckeyes’ head coach on March 17. Just a week later, Dusty May departed Florida Atlantic to take over at Michigan.
One of May’s key transfer additions was Roddy Gayle Jr., who spent two seasons with Ohio State. However, he is unlikely to receive a warm welcome from Buckeye fans upon his return.
Gayle started Michigan’s first 21 games but was moved to a bench role two games ago.
He responded with a 14-point performance against Purdue, his highest scoring output since recording 15 points against Washington on Jan. 12. He is currently averaging 10.9 points, 3.6 rebounds, and 2.8 assists per game.
“Everyone has noticed that Roddy hasn’t quite played at the level we know he’s capable of,” Michigan center Danny Wolf said.
“I wouldn’t call it a slump, but every player experiences ups and downs during the season. The way he’s bounced back is incredible, and we know Roddy is exactly the kind of teammate you want in the locker room.”