To say the last 11 weeks have been building to the renewal of Ohio State’s rivalry with Michigan would be an understatement. Truthfully, there’s been a ramp-up to Nov. 25 since the clock struck midnight on Ohio State’s 2022 campaign.
The identity of the Buckeyes’ defense is a prime example. Jim Knowles has openly pined about his shift in philosophy this year, dialing back his typical aggression to prevent big plays like Michigan’s five 40-yard-plus touchdowns that killed Ohio State against the Wolverines a year ago. He reiterated his assuredness in the strides the team has taken in that area after Ohio State’s 37-3 win over Minnesota on Saturday.